In a recent conversation with PEOPLE, actress Amy Madigan shared her cherished memories of working alongside the late John Candy during the filming of the classic 1989 comedy *Uncle Buck*. At 75, Madigan reflected on her time spent with the beloved Canadian actor, who is fondly remembered for his generous spirit and comedic brilliance.
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Madigan portrayed Chanice Kobolowski, the girlfriend of Candy’s character, Buck Russell, in *Uncle Buck*. The film follows Buck, a well-intentioned but bumbling uncle tasked with caring for his brother’s children during a family crisis. Madigan recounted how Candy’s humour often made it challenging for her to maintain her composure during filming. “I’m supposed to be angry with him as his girlfriend,” she said, adding that his antics off-camera frequently prompted her to nearly break character from laughter.
Reflecting on her experience with Candy, Madigan described him as “the kindest, most generous person” she had ever worked with. “I really had a lot of fun doing that. I got to know Mr. Candy very well,” she recalled, expressing her fondness for the man who left such an indelible mark on both the film industry and those around him. John Candy passed away in 1994 from a heart attack, but his legacy continues to resonate with fans and former colleagues alike.
Madigan is presently receiving accolades for her role as Aunt Gladys in the new horror film *Weapons*, which has also garnered her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 2026 Academy Awards. This marks her first Oscar nomination in 40 years, following her previous nomination in 1986 for her performance in *Twice in a Lifetime*. The current awards season has offered a significant reunion for Madigan and her former co-star Gabby Hoffmann, who presented her with the New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Actress earlier this year.
During this award ceremony, Hoffmann reminisced about their previous collaboration in *Field of Dreams*, where she portrayed Madigan’s on-screen daughter. “I was 7 years old when I last saw Amy,” Hoffmann stated, noting that it had been 36 years since they had last worked together. She affectionately referred to Madigan as “the ultimate mommy,” praising her warmth, laughter, and towering presence.
The praise didn’t stop there; Hoffmann highlighted Madigan’s performance in *Weapons*, calling it a “feast” that was both expansive and delightfully disarming. “She is as fierce as she is tender. She is as sexy as she is silly… absolutely horrifying as she is completely vulnerable,” Hoffmann remarked. Such commendations only add to Madigan’s distinguished career, and she appears poised for further recognition at the upcoming Academy Awards.
While she has not yet watched the 2025 documentary, *John Candy: I Like Me*, devoted to celebrating Candy’s life, Madigan expressed belief that the comedian truly deserves the tributes he receives. “He was generous to so many people,” she stated, reminiscing about Candy’s “great big heart” and how it impacted those around him.
Madigan’s career spans several decades, and she has garnered respect for her diverse roles across genres. Reflecting on her journey, she shared her surprise at the renewed attention surrounding her work. “All of this was unexpected. That’s a very nice surprise,” she commented, underscoring her astonishment at the recognition she is now receiving after many years in the industry.
Ultimately, Madigan’s reflections serve as a touching tribute to a friendship forged in the creative chaos of filmmaking. Her current success highlights not only her considerable talent but also the lasting influence of industry giants like John Candy. As the awards season approaches, Madigan stands as a reminder of the power of collaboration and the bonds formed through shared artistic endeavour.