Dan Aykroyd: The Life And Legacy Of A Comedy Legend

So, Just How Rich is Dan Aykroyd?

Let's talk about Dan Aykroyd, the multi-talented Canadian entertainer who’s built an empire worth a cool $250 million. Dan didn’t just stumble into fame and fortune; he worked his way up from performing in comedy clubs to becoming one of the most iconic figures in the entertainment industry. His journey began at the Second City comedy troupe in Toronto, where he honed his craft before landing a spot on the legendary “Saturday Night Live” in 1975. For four seasons, Aykroyd dazzled audiences with unforgettable characters, including the unforgettable Blues Brothers alongside John Belushi.

But Dan didn’t stop there. His film career skyrocketed with blockbuster hits like “The Blues Brothers” (1980), “Ghostbusters” (1984), and “Dragnet” (1987). Not only did he star in these films, but he also co-wrote them, showing off his versatility as both a writer and performer. Aykroyd wasn’t afraid to tackle dramatic roles either, delivering a standout performance in “Driving Miss Daisy” (1989) and bringing heartfelt charm to “My Girl” (1991).

Over the years, Dan kept expanding his resume by working on TV projects like his sitcom “Soul Man” (1997-1998) and lending his voice to animated series such as “The Real Ghostbusters” (1986-1991). And let’s not forget his entrepreneurial ventures—Dan co-founded the House of Blues concert venue/restaurant chain in 1992 and launched Crystal Head Vodka in 2007, which now boasts annual revenue of over $80 million. That’s what I call diversifying your portfolio!

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From Ottawa to Stardom: Dan Aykroyd's Early Years

Dan Aykroyd was born Daniel Edward Aykroyd on July 1, 1952, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Raised in a close-knit family, Dan’s mother, Lorraine, worked tirelessly as a secretary, while his father, Samuel (known as Peter), was a respected civil engineer and policy advisor under Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Growing up, Dan had a younger brother named Peter, who would later follow in his footsteps to become an actor and writer.

But Dan’s story isn’t just about talent—it’s also about overcoming challenges. At the age of 12, he was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome, and later in the early 1980s, he was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome. Despite these hurdles, Dan pursued his dreams with relentless determination. Raised in a Catholic household, he initially aspired to become a priest but changed course at 17. Before dropping out of college to pursue comedy full-time, Dan studied sociology and criminology at Carleton University. His passion for performing led him to join the Second City comedy troupe in 1973, where he made a name for himself and even ran a speakeasy called Club 505.

A Career Built on Laughter and Legacy

Dan Aykroyd’s career is a testament to his boundless creativity and hard work. His television debut came at the tender age of 17 when he joined the Canadian sketch comedy series “The Hart and Lorne Terrific Hour” (1970-1971), starring alongside Hart Pomerantz and Lorne Michaels. It was Lorne who recognized Dan’s potential and brought him aboard “Saturday Night Live” in 1975. As a writer and performer, Aykroyd quickly became a household name, creating beloved characters like Yortuk Festrunk, Beldar Conehead, and Elwood Blues. The Blues Brothers, born on SNL, went on to star in their own movie in 1980, with John Goodman taking over for the late John Belushi in the 1998 sequel, “Blues Brothers 2000.”

Dan’s collaboration with John Belushi extended beyond the Blues Brothers, including films like “1941” (1979) and “Neighbors” (1981). Tragically, Belushi’s untimely death in 1982 forced Aykroyd to rewrite the role of Peter Venkman for Bill Murray in “Ghostbusters” (1984). The film became a cultural phenomenon, grossing $295.7 million worldwide and spawning a 1989 sequel, a 2016 reboot, and the animated series “The Real Ghostbusters.” Dan reprised his role in “Ghostbusters: Afterlife,” released in 2021.

In 1983, Aykroyd teamed up with Eddie Murphy for “Trading Places,” then wrote and starred in “Spies Like Us” (1987) and “Dragnet” (1987). He showcased his dramatic chops in “Driving Miss Daisy” (1989) and directed “Nothing But Trouble” (1991). Other notable films include “Coneheads” (1993) and “Tommy Boy” (1995). In 1996, Dan hosted “Psi Factor: Chronicles of the Paranormal,” created by his brother Peter, and starred in the ABC sitcom “Soul Man” (1997-1998). Even in the 2000s, Dan continued to charm audiences in films like “Evolution” (2000), “50 First Dates” (2004), “I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry” (2007), and “Tammy” (2014).

The Ghostbusters Payday: How Aykroyd Made Millions

When it came to negotiating the deal for “Ghostbusters,” Dan Aykroyd and his co-stars struck gold. Columbia Pictures agreed to some incredibly generous terms, splitting 30% of the movie’s gross revenues at the box office, home video sales, and network licensing deals among the three principal actors (Aykroyd, Murray, Ramis) and director Ivan Reitman. This resulted in a staggering $300 million split four ways, meaning each person walked away with $75 million. Adjusted for inflation, that’s equivalent to $200 million per person today!

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For the sequel, the team negotiated an even sweeter deal. Each member received a $6 million upfront salary and then split 35% of the gross. “Ghostbusters II” earned around $215 million at the box office, allowing each principal to earn roughly $50 million from salary and backend points. Adjusted for inflation, that’s $110 million per person. In total, Dan Aykroyd made approximately $125 million from the first two “Ghostbusters” films, or $310 million in today’s dollars. As the film’s creator and screenwriter, Dan has earned millions more through sequels, merchandise, comic books, and other ventures.

The Man Behind the Mask: Dan Aykroyd's Personal Life

Behind the scenes, Dan Aykroyd’s personal life has been just as fascinating as his career. In 1980, he was engaged to Carrie Fisher, his co-star in “The Blues Brothers,” but their relationship ended when she reunited with former boyfriend Paul Simon. Dan eventually found love with actress Donna Dixon, whom he married on April 29, 1983. Together, they have three daughters: Danielle (born in November 1989), Belle (born in June 1993), and Stella (born in April 1998). John Belushi, Dan’s close friend and collaborator, was like a brother to him, and his passing left a profound impact on Dan.

Beyond his family, Dan has pursued a variety of interests. He served as a reserve commander for the Harahan, Louisiana, police department and a reserve deputy for Mississippi’s Hinds County Sheriff’s Department. A self-proclaimed Spiritualist and UFO enthusiast, Dan is a member of MUFON (Mutual UFO Network) and has served as the organization’s Hollywood consultant. His passion for the unknown inspired him to host “Psi Factor: Chronicles of the Paranormal” and release the DVD “Dan Aykroyd: Unplugged on UFOs.” In 2009, Dan’s father published a book about their family’s history with Spiritualism, “A History of Ghosts,” to which Dan contributed the introduction and helped promote.

Awards and Recognition: Honoring Dan Aykroyd's Contributions

Dan Aykroyd’s contributions to entertainment haven’t gone unnoticed. In 1977, he shared an Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy-Variety or Music Series with the “Saturday Night Live” writing staff. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his performance in “Driving Miss Daisy” in 1990. Carleton University awarded him an honorary Doctor of Literature degree in 1994, and in 1997, he received a Snuffed Candle Award from the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry for his involvement with “Psi Factor.” Dan was honored with a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2002 and appointed to the Order of Canada in 1999 and the Order of Ontario in 2017.

Real Estate Ventures: Dan Aykroyd's Luxurious Homes

When it comes to real estate, Dan Aykroyd knows how to invest wisely. In 1988, he and his brother purchased a 4,176-square-foot house in Los Angeles for $732,500, eventually selling it for $2.13 million in 2008. In 2007, Dan bought a luxurious 4-bedroom home in the Pacific Palisades for $14.5 million and sold his 4,828-square-foot Hollywood Hills home for $3.8 million the following year. In 2014, he listed the Pacific Palisades home for rent at $45,000 per month, proving that even his properties generate income.

Crystal Head Vodka: A Toast to Success

In 2007, Dan Aykroyd and his partner launched Crystal Head Vodka with an initial investment of $600,000. The vodka, known for its distinctive crystal skull-shaped bottles, quickly gained popularity. By 2011, the company was generating over $55 million in annual revenue, and today, its annual revenue tops $80-$100 million. It’s safe to say that Dan’s entrepreneurial spirit has paid off in more ways than one.