Jim Belushi Recalls a Defining Moment from Early Hollywood Career Involving Late Brother John
Jim Belushi shared with PEOPLE a memorable experience from his early Hollywood days that involved his late brother, John Belushi. John was a comedian and musician famed for his work on Saturday Night Live and The Blues Brothers. He passed away in 1982 at the age of 33.
John Belushi's Rising Stardom
Starting in 1975, John Belushi gained recognition as an original cast member of Saturday Night Live. Together with co-star Dan Aykroyd, he developed the iconic characters "Joliet" Jake Blues and Elwood Blues, forming The Blues Brothers, a blues and soul band.
The Blues Brothers' Early Success
- The duo debuted as musical guests on SNL in April 1978.
- They later recruited a full band to expand their sound.
- In September 1978, they opened for Steve Martin during a residency at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles.
Event Context and Interview Details
Jim Belushi, now 71, reflected on this era while attending the premiere of Song Sung Blue at AFI Fest in Los Angeles on October 26. His reflections highlight the excitement and formative nature of those years as both brothers were establishing their entertainment careers.
"What I loved most about that time was getting our showbiz dreams off the ground together," Jim shared during the exclusive interview.
About the Reporters
- Erin Clack, Staff Editor at PEOPLE, has covered fashion, parenting, and pop culture for over 15 years.
- Scott Huver, writer-reporter at PEOPLE, reports on entertainment, celebrity, and more with 20+ years of experience.
Author's summary: Jim Belushi fondly recalls his early Hollywood days alongside his late brother John Belushi, emphasizing their breakout success as The Blues Brothers and their shared journey in showbiz.