Ryan Reynolds Says He Sees Himself in John Candy: ‘A Lot of Similar Elements in My Own Life’ (Exclusive)

Ryan Reynolds Shares Deep Connection with Late Comedian John Candy

Renowned actor and producer Ryan Reynolds recently opened up about his profound admiration for the late comedian John Candy, revealing striking similarities he sees between himself and the beloved Canadian star. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, Reynolds expressed his admiration for Candy, despite never having had the chance to meet him in person.

Reynolds, who produced the documentary “John Candy: I Like Me,” highlighted the common traits he shares with Candy, including their Canadian heritage and a shared passion for sports. He also noted Candy’s tendency to live as though time was running out, a quality Reynolds finds both relatable and poignant, considering Candy’s untimely passing at the age of 43 due to a heart attack while filming in Mexico.

The documentary, now available on Prime Video, delves into Candy’s enduring legacy through heartfelt anecdotes from those who knew and worked with him, such as Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, and Martin Short. Reynolds, who managed to involve other luminaries like Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Macaulay Culkin, and Conan O’Brien in the project, highlighted the universal sentiment that Candy was a genuinely good person behind the scenes.

Reflecting on his childhood, Reynolds fondly recalled how he spent hours trying to emulate Candy, memorizing his speeches and drawing inspiration for his future endeavors in the entertainment industry. The actor even credited Candy as a source of influence for his work on projects like “Deadpool & Wolverine,” revealing the lasting impact Candy had on his creative journey.

The news of Candy’s passing deeply affected Reynolds, who vividly remembers the moment he learned about the comedic icon’s death while in Vancouver. He expressed a mix of shock and sadness at Candy’s premature departure, acknowledging a sense of loss for the future works and unique persona that Candy brought to the screen.

In discussing Candy’s unique charm, Reynolds highlighted the late comedian’s ability to blend vulnerability, humour, and self-awareness in his performances. He described Candy’s on-screen persona as a reflection of the quintessentially Canadian trait of good-natured self-deprecation, marked by genuine sensitivity and emotional depth that resonated with audiences.

For Reynolds, the documentary provided a gateway to connect with Candy on a deeper level, facilitating intimate conversations about Candy’s enduring impact on those who cherished his talent and spirit. Acknowledging the universal sentiment that John Candy’s absence is deeply felt, Reynolds emphasised the profound legacy and lasting influence of the comedic legend.

Through his candid reflections on the impact of John Candy’s work and persona, Ryan Reynolds pays tribute to a comedic genius whose warmth, vulnerability, and timeless humour continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. As fans revisit Candy’s iconic performances and enduring charm through the documentary, Reynolds’ heartfelt admiration for the late comedian serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting imprint left by a true entertainment icon.

By highlighting the enduring legacy and personal connection he shares with John Candy, Ryan Reynolds honours the memory of a comedic legend whose influence transcends generations and continues to inspire laughter and fond memories for fans around the world.