Jim Belushi recently shared his favorite memory from early in his Hollywood career, highlighting his late brother John Belushi’s iconic role as part of The Blues Brothers.
John Belushi emerged as a breakout comedy star with the original “Saturday Night Live” cast in 1975. Alongside fellow “SNL” performer Dan Aykroyd, he co-created The Blues Brothers, which evolved into a popular blues and soul music act.
The Blues Brothers first appeared on “SNL” as musical guests in April 1978 and soon after formed a full band. By September 1978, they were opening for Steve Martin during his concerts at the Universal Amphitheater in Los Angeles.
“I’ll tell you what I loved: I loved going to the Universal Amphitheater when they came to LA and they opened for Steve Martin. And John was so, so magnificent. I loved that moment, to see my brother just hit the top of his chart.”
Tragically, John Belushi died from a suspected drug overdose on March 5, 1982. Following his brother’s death, Jim stepped in to perform as Zee Blues alongside Aykroyd’s Elwood, at Aykroyd’s request.
Jim Belushi recalls his pride witnessing John’s rise as part of The Blues Brothers, a role that defined his brother’s career before his untimely death.