The actor and comedian James Belushi celebrates 70 today
His first major television role came in 1983 when he joined the cast of “Saturday Night Live” and has since built a memorable career in both film and TV
The actor and comedian James Belushi celebrates 70 today
The accomplished actor, comedian, musician, and producer James Belushi, was born on June 15, 1954, in Chicago, Illinois. Belushi was born to Albanian immigrant parents, Adam and Agnes Belushi. He grew up in Wheaton, Illinois, and attended Wheaton Central High School. Following his graduation, he pursued higher education at the College of DuPage and subsequently earned a degree in Speech and Theater Arts from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Belushi’s career began in the mid-1970s when he joined the Second City comedy troupe in Chicago, a breeding ground for many famous comedians. His work with Second City helped him hone his comedic skills and opened doors to television and film opportunities.
His first major television role came in 1983 when he joined the cast of “Saturday Night Live” (SNL). His tenure on SNL showcased his talent for sketch comedy and impersonations, helping him gain recognition in the entertainment industry.
In the mid-1980s, Belushi transitioned to film, landing roles in movies such as “Trading Places” (1983) and “About Last Night…” (1986). However, his breakthrough film role came with “The Principal” (1987), where he played a tough high school principal, showcasing his ability to handle dramatic roles.
Belushi’s most notable film work includes “K-9” (1989), where he starred alongside a police dog in a buddy-cop comedy that became a box office hit and spawned two sequels. He also appeared in “Mr. Destiny” (1990) and “Curly Sue” (1991), further solidifying his status as a versatile actor capable of handling both comedic and dramatic roles.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Belushi continued to find success in television. He starred in the popular sitcom “According to Jim” (2001-2009), where he played the titular character, Jim. The show, which he also co-produced, ran for eight seasons and became a staple of ABC’s comedy lineup. Belushi’s portrayal of the affable, everyman character earned him a dedicated fan base.
In addition to his acting career, Belushi is a talented musician. He formed the band The Sacred Hearts, with which he frequently performs. He also tours with Dan Aykroyd as part of The Blues Brothers, a tribute to the original act founded by his late brother, John Belushi, and Aykroyd.
Today, James Belushi remains active in the entertainment industry, taking on various acting roles and continuing his work in music. He has appeared in television series such as “Twin Peaks” (2017) and “Show Me a Hero” (2015). Belushi also stars in the reality TV show “Growing Belushi” (2020-present), which chronicles his life on his cannabis farm in Oregon, reflecting his venture into the cannabis business.
James Belushi has been married three times. He married his first wife, Sandra Davenport, in 1980, and they have a son, Robert Belushi, who is also an actor. Belushi married Marjorie Bransfield in 1990, but they divorced in 1992. In 1998, he married Jennifer Sloan, with whom he has two children, Jamison and Jared. Despite filing for divorce in 2018, the couple has since reconciled.
Belushi is known for his love of music, often performing live and integrating his musical talents into his acting projects. He is also a dedicated family man and enjoys spending time with his family on their Oregon farm.
Watch a CBS Sunday Morning special report featuring an interview with James Belushi where he talks about pursuing his agricultural passion on his Oregon cannabis farm
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