Jim Belushi Remembers Early Hollywood Days with Late Brother John
Jim Belushi shared with PEOPLE a cherished memory from the start of his career in Hollywood, involving his late brother, John Belushi. John, famed comedian and musician, known for his iconic roles on Saturday Night Live (SNL) and The Blues Brothers, passed away in 1982 at the age of 33.
John Belushi’s Rise to Fame
Starting in 1975, John quickly became a prominent comedy star as an original SNL cast member. Alongside co-star Dan Aykroyd, he created the legendary characters "Joliet" Jake Blues and Elwood Blues, which formed the foundation of The Blues Brothers, a blues and soul music act.
The Blues Brothers’ Early Success
- The duo first appeared as musical guests on SNL in April 1978.
- They later expanded their act by recruiting a full band.
- In September 1978, The Blues Brothers opened for Steve Martin during his residency at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles.
"I loved that period when John and I were both starting out in showbiz," Jim Belushi reflected at the Song Sung Blue premiere during AFI Fest in Los Angeles on October 26.
About the Reporters
Erin Clack, Staff Editor for PEOPLE, has covered fashion, parenting, and pop culture for over 15 years. Scott Huver, a writer-reporter at PEOPLE, brings more than two decades of experience reporting on entertainment, celebrity, crime, and fashion in Los Angeles.
Author's summary: Jim Belushi fondly recalls the early days with his brother John as they launched their entertainment careers, highlighting the birth of The Blues Brothers and their initial successes in Hollywood.