John Belushi American comedian, screenwriter Date of Birth: 24.01.1949 Country: USA

Biography of John Belushi

John Belushi was an American comedian, actor, and screenwriter. He was born on January 24, 1949, to Adam and Agnes Belushi. In 1967, he completed high school where he was known as a popular figure and the captain of the football team, earning the nickname "The Crusher" for his powerful attacks. Despite rejecting an invitation from one university, John decided to attend another that offered the faculties he desired, even though they did not provide scholarships for athletes. However, he was not accepted there either, so he enrolled in a university in a different state. Despite facing many challenges, John eventually obtained his diploma.

His father, a native of Albania, owned and managed two restaurants, intending to pass the family business onto his eldest son. Adam offered John the opportunity to join the family business seven times, but John consistently declined. Disappointed in John, Adam shifted his attention to his second son, James. Fortunately, James did not succeed in taking over the family business either.

In February 1971, John traveled to Chicago for an audition at a comedy theater. He was accepted and quickly progressed to lead roles, despite being the youngest member of the troupe. During this time, John developed a passion for Joe Cocker's music. He also began experimenting with drugs, trying various substances from marijuana to peyote. While he was not the only one experimenting with drugs during this era, it seemed that he struggled to find direction outside of the stage. When another actor asked him how he was able to be so relaxed on stage, John replied, "Because it's the only place where I know exactly what I'm doing."

During a trip to Canada, John met a talented individual named Dan Aykroyd. John offered Dan a job in his show, but Dan declined and instead made John a tempting offer. This agreement led to the creation of a musical duo, the release of several albums, concerts, and movies. Although John did not participate in the second film, it is difficult to imagine it being made without the success of "The Blues Brothers."

On March 5, 1982, John tragically passed away from a drug overdose, a combination of cocaine and heroin. He was buried on March 9 at Abel's Hill Cemetery on Martha's Vineyard Island, Massachusetts.

Notable works:
- 1978: "National Lampoon's Animal House"
- 1978: "The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash"
- 1978: "Goin' South"
- 1979: "Old Boyfriends"
- 1979: "1941" as Wild Bill Kelso
- 1980: "The Blues Brothers"
- 1981: "Neighbors"
- 1981: "Continental Divide"

Awards:
- Emmy 1979 (nomination) for Best Comedy Program ("Saturday Night Live")
- Emmy 1978 (nomination) for Best Supporting Role in a Comedy Program ("Saturday Night Live")
- Emmy 1977 for Best Comedy Program Writing ("Saturday Night Live")
- Emmy 1977 (nomination) for Best Supporting Role in a Comedy Program ("Saturday Night Live")