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Born: February 15, 1964 – Died: December 18, 1997
Christopher Crosby Farley, an embodiment of laughter and vibrant energy, was born into the world in Madison, Wisconsin, to Mary Anne (Crosby) and Thomas Farley, who ran an oil company. Growing up with a lineage of talent, including his brothers and fellow actors Kevin P. Farley and John Farley, he carried the spark of Irish descent. Farley's legacy in comedy and his boisterous on-screen presence marked an era in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Career
Farley's life began in a city known for its lakes and universities, where he was surrounded by a loving family. His educational journey took him to Marquette University, where he immersed himself in theatre and communications. His innate comedic talent shone brightly, leading him from collegiate performances to the professional stages of the Second City Theatre. It was here, in the heart of improvisational comedy, that a producer from a prominent comedy show took notice of him.
Chris Farley's first leap into the spotlight came in 1990, stepping onto the iconic set of "Saturday Night Live." The role that truly ingrained him in the hearts of audiences was as the lovable, clumsy Tommy Callahan in "Tommy Boy" (1995), which became a comedic touchstone. This character, alongside others, earned Farley his place in Hollywood and among its notable performers.
Throughout his career, Farley was honored with awards that recognized his unique brand of humor and heartwarming personality, though his life was not without its struggles. Off-screen, Farley was known for his larger-than-life personality, a trait that also brought him love and laughter, though he faced personal challenges with substances including heroin. This is what led to his death from an overdose. Despite these battles, he remained a figure of warmth and humor, engaging in various interests and leaving a legacy through his philanthropic efforts.
Farley's impact on Hollywood was like a comet: brilliant and unforgettable. His style, often compared to his idol John Belushi, was filled with a physical comedy that defied his size and resonated with authenticity. His untimely departure left the world with a collection of performances that continue to inspire laughter and joy, securing his place as a cherished icon in the world of entertainment.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Chris Farley as Shrek (Short) | Shrek (voice) |
| 1998 | Dirty Work | Jimmy (uncredited) |
| 1998 | Almost Heroes | Bartholomew Hunt |
| 1997 | Beverly Hills Ninja | Haru |
| 1997 | All That (TV Series) | The Chicago Ketchup Chef |
| 1996 | Shrek: I Feel Good (Short) | Shrek (voice) |
| 1996 | Adam Sandler: Steve Polychronopolous (Music Video) | Chris Farley |
| 1990–1996 | Saturday Night Live (TV Series) | Newt Gingrich | Self | Various ... |
| 1996 | Black Sheep | Mike Donnelly |
| 1995 | Tommy Boy | Tommy |
| 1995 | Billy Madison | Bus Driver (uncredited) |
| 1994 | Airheads | Wilson |
| 1994 | Tom (TV Series) | Chris |
| 1993 | Wayne's World 2 | Milton |
| 1993 | The Larry Sanders Show (TV Series) | Chris Farley |
| 1993 | Red Hot Chili Peppers: Soul to Squeeze (Music Video) | Carnival Boss |
| 1993 | Coneheads | Ronnie the Mechanic |
| 1993 | Roseanne (TV Series) | Man in Clothing Store (uncredited) |
| 1993 | Schiller's Reel: While the City Sweeps (Short) | Hal McCullough |
| 1992 | The Jackie Thomas Show (TV Series) | Chris Thomas |
| 1992 | Schiller's Reel: Million Dollar Zombie (TV Movie) | Bill Carruthers |
| 1992 | Wayne's World | Security Guard |