At the Toronto Film Festival’s opening night, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney paid tribute to the late John Candy, praising his iconic Hollywood comedy roles where he stood up to bullies.
“In many of his films, John would turn the tables when pushed too far,” Carney said with a knowing smile, hinting at resilience against overbearing forces. Without directly naming U.S. President Donald Trump, Carney alluded to ongoing U.S.-Canada trade disputes and tariff tensions, including negotiations for a new trade agreement involving Mexico. “We live in a more divided, intolerant world. Canada’s sovereignty and identity have been challenged, but Canadians channel their inner John Candy—elbows up,” he said, referencing hockey to underscore resistance to external pressures.
Carney’s remarks introduced TIFF’s opening film, John Candy: I Like Me, a documentary celebrating the Canadian comedy legend, directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds.
