Daniel Edward Aykroyd

Born: July 1, 1952
Place of Birth: Ottawa, Ontario

• Dan Aykroyd is an accomplished actor, writer, and comedian.

• As a youth, he had to overcome several personal handicaps including Tourette syndrome and a form of autism.

• He attended Ottawa's Carleton University, where he majored in Criminology and Sociology, but dropped out after two years to pursue acting.

• Aykroyd then worked in a number of nightclubs in Canada to develop his skills as a comedian and actor.

• From 1975-79, acting on the popular "Saturday Night Live" television show, he created several important comical characters.

• Aykroyd and close friend John Belushi developed the duo known as "The Blues Brothers", central to the hit movie by the same name.

• The pair had planned a follow up movie "House of Blues" however Belushi died unexpectedly.

• Aykroyd later help founded a successful series of "House of Blues" entertainment centers.

• He has appeared in several films since and was nominated for the Best Supporting Actor in the movie "Driving Miss Daisie".

• Aykroyd has proven to be an effective actor in playing highly stylized characters.

• His movie credits include "Ghostbusters", "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom", and "CaddyshackII" and he has worked with such actors as Eddie Murphy, Bill Murray, and Chevy Chase.

• In 1998, he was made a Member of the Order of Canada.

• Dan Aykroyd continues to be a recognized actor, writer, director, and producer in both television and movies.

Last Updated: June 13, 2006
© Canada-Heros/Don Jones 2003