To say that actor Dan Aykroyd, 61, is a modern-day Renaissance man might be an understatement.
Most people probably know Aykroyd as a comedian. Television audiences saw him first as an original cast member of the long-running show, "Saturday Night Live" (still in production on NBC). As part of the "Not Ready For Prime Time Players," he created many memorable characters such as Irwin Mainway (corrupt toymaker of classics like "Bag O Glass") and Beldar, the patriarch of the Conehead family from France. How could anyone forget the "Bass-O-Matic," the blender that turned a whole bass fish into liquid pulp?
In addition to creating those characters, Aykroyd also teamed up with fellow SNL cast member John Belushi to create The Blues Brothers. Elwood Blues, the stoic, harmonica playing bluesman wearing dark shades and a black suit, showed audiences Aykroyd's musical side in addition to his ability to play mouth harp. You can't deny that Elwood Blues was certainly the musicologist of the duo.
After SNL, Aykroyd transitioned to film, making some of the most memorable movies of the '80s like "Trading Places." One of the biggest films he starred in was 1984's "Ghostbusters." The film was not only a top grossing movie ($238,632,124.00) but also one that he helped write. Aykroyd created those beloved defenders of New York City.
His movie career continued to flourish into the '90s as he began taking on more dramatic roles. His acting abilities were officially recognized by the Academy of Motion Pictures with an Oscar nomination for his role in "Driving Miss Daisy."
As the '90s drew to a close, Aykroyd was a partner in the opening of the House of Blues restaurants and venues all over the United States.
His entrepreneurial spirit did not stop there—he also co-founded Crystal Head Vodka. The vodka received a Double Gold Medal at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2011.
Comedy, acting, music, writing and entrepreneurship are all part of the many talents of Aykroyd.
Dan Aykroyd will be at Wine & Spirits in the Quarter (1855 Lakeland Drive) to sign bottles of his award-winning Crystal Head Vodka from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 18.
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