- Born
- Place
Dan Aykroyd
Daniel Edward Aykroyd, born in Ottawa, initially pursued studies in psychology, criminal sociology, and political science at Carleton University, where his comedy journey took off. He co-wrote sketches for a private cable company, igniting his passion for acting. At 20, he joined The Second City comedy troupe in Chicago and Toronto, marking the start of his career.
In 1975, Aykroyd joined "Saturday Night Live" as a founding member of the "Not Ready For Prime Time Players," crafting iconic sketches like "The Blues Brothers" with Belushi and "Two Wild and Crazy Guys" with Steve Martin. The success of "The Blues Brothers" sketch led to a full-length feature in 1980, with Aykroyd writing and producing the movie soundtrack, defying the disco and punk era.
His versatile talent shines in roles like Dr. Ray Stantz in "Ghostbusters," Jessica Tandy’s son in "Driving Miss Daisy," a single father in "My Girl," and an assassin in "Grosse Pointe Blank," showcasing both comedic and dramatic prowess.
As actor
You Had to Be There: How the Toronto Godspell Ignited the Comedy Revolution...
Marty, Life Is Short
Ladies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music
John Candy: I Like Me
I'm Chevy Chase and You're Not
On a Mission from God: The Story of the Blues Brothers
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
The Greatest Night in Pop
Jim Henson Idea Man
Zombie Town
Our Soho
2022 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Who Saw the Men in Black
Ghostbusters: Afterlife
The Go-Go's
Cleanin' Up the Town: Remembering Ghostbusters
Belushi
Defend, Conserve, Protect
Fantastic Mr. Murray
Chris Farley: Anything for a Laugh
Ghostheads
Ghostbusters
Good Fortune
Being Canadian
I Am Chris Farley
Pixels
Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return
Tammy
Get On Up
Time Is But a Window: Ghostbusters 2 and Beyond
