The Unlikely Horror Role John Candy Almost Played
A look into the surprising casting choice that horror author Stephen King had in mind for a lead role, and the missed opportunity for comedy legend John Candy.
The Comedy Legend
Thinner (1996) - Trailer HD 1080p
The world lost a comedy legend when John Candy passed away in 1994 at the age of just 43. Known for his charismatic and humorous performances, Candy left a lasting impact on the world of comedy and film.
Billy on the verge of death in Thinner.
After gaining recognition for his memorable supporting roles, John Candy transitioned into leading roles with films like Summer Rental, Spaceballs, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, The Great Outdoors, and Uncle Buck. His comedic talent and larger-than-life personality endeared him to audiences, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Stephen King's Wild Idea
In a surprising revelation, a producer on the ill-fated Stephen King adaptation Thinner disclosed that the renowned horror author initially envisioned John Candy in the lead role. Mitchell Galin, in the Blu-ray commentary for the new Shout! Factory Thinner Collector’s Edition, shared King's unconventional casting choice for the character of Billy Halleck, an overweight man cursed to shed pounds in a terrifying manner.
Galin detailed the attempt to secure Candy for the role, quoting King's humorous response, 'We’ll pay him a nice chunk of money, and we’ll save his life.' Despite the intriguing prospect, Candy's involvement did not materialize, leaving the horror genre bereft of a potential and unexpected performance from the comedic icon.
The revelation sparked curiosity about Candy's ability to tackle a dramatic role in a horror film, contrasting his usual comedic repertoire. While Candy's versatility was evident in emotionally resonant moments in comedic films like Planes, Trains and Automobiles, the prospect of him taking on a harrowing journey in a horror narrative remained unfulfilled.
The Weight Loss Stunt
While the idea of John Candy starring in Thinner presented an intriguing possibility, the practicality of King's plan to have him undergo a weight loss transformation for the role raised significant concerns. The character of Billy Halleck undergoes a horrifying physical transformation, culminating in an emaciated appearance, a feat that would have required Candy to undergo a drastic and unhealthy weight loss regimen.
The film Thinner, released in 1996, featured Robert John Burke in the role of Billy, two years after Candy's untimely passing. The speculative nature of King's casting suggestion and the subsequent failed attempts to secure Candy for the role underscore the missed opportunity for the actor to venture into a new genre, albeit under challenging circumstances.
Despite the intriguing premise, the film Thinner faced critical disappointment, casting doubt on the notion that Candy's involvement could have salvaged the production. The unforeseen prospect of Candy in a horror film, while captivating, ultimately remained an unexplored chapter in the late actor's illustrious career.
