See The Incredible Rise Of Actor Kevin Farley!

Kevin Farley is an American actor and comedian best known for his roles in the films Tommy Boy and Black Sheep, as well as his appearances on the television show Saturday Night Live.

Farley was born in Madison, Wisconsin, on June 8, 1964. He is the son of Mary Anne (ne Crosby) and Thomas Farley Sr. Farley has two brothers, John and Chris, and a sister, Barbara. Farley attended Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he studied theater. After graduating from Marquette, Farley moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he began his acting career. In 1990, Farley joined the cast of Saturday Night Live. He remained on the show for four seasons, during which time he became known for his impersonations of celebrities such as Matt Foley, motivational speaker, and Todd O'Connor, Gap Girls' spokesperson.

After leaving Saturday Night Live, Farley went on to star in a number of films, including Tommy Boy (1995), Black Sheep (1996), and The Waterboy (1998). He also had a recurring role on the television show 30 Rock. In recent years, Farley has continued to act in films and television shows, and he has also worked as a voice actor. He is the co-founder of the Farley Center for Peace, Justice, and Unity, a non-profit organization that provides support to families affected by addiction.

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Actor Kevin Farley

Kevin Farley is an American actor and comedian best known for his roles in the films Tommy Boy and Black Sheep, as well as his appearances on the television show Saturday Night Live. Here are seven key aspects of his career:

• Comedian: Farley began his career as a stand-up comedian in Chicago.
• Saturday Night Live: Farley was a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1990 to 1994.
• Matt Foley: Farley is best known for his impersonation of motivational speaker Matt Foley on Saturday Night Live.
• Tommy Boy: Farley starred in the 1995 comedy film Tommy Boy alongside Chris Farley.
• The Waterboy: Farley had a supporting role in the 1998 comedy film The Waterboy.
• Voice actor: Farley has also worked as a voice actor, providing voices for characters in films such as Shrek and Madagascar.
• Philanthropy: Farley is the co-founder of the Farley Center for Peace, Justice, and Unity, a non-profit organization that provides support to families affected by addiction.

These key aspects highlight the diverse range of Kevin Farley's career. He is a talented actor and comedian who has made a significant contribution to the entertainment industry. His work has brought joy to millions of people around the world.

1. Comedian

Kevin Farley's career as a stand-up comedian in Chicago was a formative experience that laid the foundation for his success as an actor. Stand-up comedy taught him the importance of timing, delivery, and audience engagement. These skills are essential for any actor, but they are especially important for comedic actors. Farley's ability to make people laugh on stage helped him to develop the comedic chops that he would later bring to his film and television roles.

In addition, Farley's experience as a stand-up comedian helped him to develop a strong work ethic and a willingness to take risks. Stand-up comedy is a tough business, and only the most dedicated comedians are able to succeed. Farley's perseverance and determination helped him to overcome the challenges of the comedy circuit and eventually land a spot on Saturday Night Live.

Farley's experience as a stand-up comedian also helped him to develop a unique comedic voice. His comedy is often characterized by its self-deprecating humor and its ability to find the funny in everyday situations. This comedic voice has helped Farley to connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Overall, Farley's career as a stand-up comedian in Chicago was a vital step in his journey to becoming a successful actor. The skills, experience, and comedic voice that he developed during this time have all contributed to his success in film and television.

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2. Saturday Night Live

Kevin Farley's time on Saturday Night Live was a major turning point in his career. It was during this time that he developed his signature comedic style and became known to a national audience.

• Impressions: Farley was known for his spot-on impressions of celebrities such as Matt Foley, motivational speaker, and Todd O'Connor, Gap Girls' spokesperson. His impressions were often hilarious and helped to make him a fan favorite.
• Original characters: Farley also created a number of original characters during his time on SNL, including the lovable and dim-witted Todd. These characters were often the centerpiece of Farley's sketches and helped to showcase his comedic range.
• Physical comedy: Farley was also known for his physical comedy. He was not afraid to get physical in his sketches, and his willingness to take risks often led to some of the most memorable moments in SNL history.
• Chemistry with other cast members: Farley had great chemistry with the other cast members of SNL. He was always willing to work with others and was always up for a good laugh. This chemistry helped to create some of the most memorable sketches in SNL history.

Farley's time on Saturday Night Live helped to launch his career as a successful actor and comedian. The skills and experience that he gained during this time have served him well throughout his career.

3. Matt Foley

Kevin Farley's impersonation of Matt Foley, a motivational speaker, is one of his most well-known and beloved characters. Farley first debuted the character on Saturday Night Live in 1993, and he quickly became a fan favorite. Foley is a middle-aged man with a receding hairline and a mustache, and he is often seen wearing a plaid shirt and khakis. He is known for his enthusiastic speeches, which are often full of malapropisms and non-sequiturs.

• Farley's comedic genius: Farley's impersonation of Matt Foley is a masterclass in comedic acting. He perfectly captures the character's mannerisms, speech patterns, and physicality. Farley's performance is so convincing that it is easy to forget that he is not actually Matt Foley.
• Satire of motivational speakers: Farley's impersonation of Matt Foley is also a clever satire of motivational speakers. Foley is a parody of the many self-help gurus who promise to help people achieve their dreams. However, Farley's performance shows that these gurus are often full of hot air and that they do not have all the answers.
• Cultural impact: Matt Foley has become a cultural icon. The character has been referenced in numerous other television shows and movies, and he has even been the subject of a Saturday Night Live sketch. Foley's popularity is a testament to Farley's comedic genius and his ability to create memorable characters.

Farley's impersonation of Matt Foley is a shining example of his comedic talent. The character is funny, relatable, and satirical. Foley is one of the many reasons why Farley is considered to be one of the greatest comedians of all time.

4. Tommy Boy

The 1995 comedy film Tommy Boy marked a significant milestone in Kevin Farley's career. It was his first starring role in a major motion picture, and it helped to establish him as a leading man in Hollywood.

In Tommy Boy, Farley plays the title role of Tommy Callahan, a dim-witted but lovable college student who is forced to take over his father's auto parts business after his father dies. Farley's performance in the film is both hilarious and heartwarming, and it helped to make Tommy Boy a box office success.

The success of Tommy Boy helped to launch Farley's career as a film actor. He went on to star in a number of other successful films, including Black Sheep (1996), The Waterboy (1998), and Joe Dirt (2001). Farley's work in these films helped to cement his status as one of the most popular comedians of the 1990s and early 2000s.

Farley's success in Tommy Boy is a testament to his comedic talent and his ability to connect with audiences. He was able to create a character that was both funny and relatable, and his performance helped to make Tommy Boy a classic comedy film.

5. The Waterboy

Kevin Farley's supporting role in the 1998 comedy film The Waterboy is a significant component of his career as an actor. The film's success and Farley's memorable performance helped to establish him as a rising star in Hollywood.

In The Waterboy, Farley plays Bobby Boucher Jr., a socially awkward and physically inept waterboy for a college football team. Despite his initial shortcomings, Bobby eventually discovers his hidden talent for tackling and becomes a valuable member of the team. Farley's portrayal of Bobby is both hilarious and heartwarming, and it helped to make The Waterboy a box office success.

The success of The Waterboy helped to launch Farley's career as a film actor. He went on to star in a number of other successful films, including Black Sheep (1996), Tommy Boy (1995), and Joe Dirt (2001). Farley's work in these films helped to cement his status as one of the most popular comedians of the 1990s and early 2000s.

Farley's supporting role in The Waterboy is a testament to his comedic talent and his ability to connect with audiences. He was able to create a character that was both funny and relatable, and his performance helped to make The Waterboy a classic comedy film.

6. Voice actor

Kevin Farley's work as a voice actor is a significant aspect of his career as an actor. It has allowed him to showcase his versatility and range, and it has helped to broaden his appeal to audiences.

• Range and Versatility

  As a voice actor, Farley has demonstrated his ability to play a wide range of characters, from the lovable Shrek to the zany Marty in the Madagascar films. His vocal performances are always nuanced and believable, and he is able to bring even the most minor characters to life.

• Audience Appeal

  Farley's work as a voice actor has helped to broaden his appeal to audiences. By lending his voice to popular animated films, he has been able to reach a wider demographic, including children and families. This has helped to solidify his status as a well-rounded and versatile actor.

• Artistic Expression

  For Farley, voice acting is not just a job; it is also a form of artistic expression. He enjoys the challenge of creating unique and memorable characters, and he takes pride in his work. Farley's passion for voice acting is evident in the quality of his performances.

• Career Longevity

  Farley's work as a voice actor has helped to extend his career longevity. As he gets older, he may find it more difficult to land leading roles in live-action films. However, his voice acting skills will continue to be in demand, which will allow him to continue working in the entertainment industry for many years to come.

Overall, Kevin Farley's work as a voice actor is an important part of his career. It has allowed him to showcase his versatility and range, broaden his appeal to audiences, and extend his career longevity. Farley is a talented voice actor who brings his unique comedic style to every role he plays.

7. Philanthropy

Kevin Farley's philanthropic work through the Farley Center for Peace, Justice, and Unity is a testament to his commitment to making a positive impact on society. The center provides support to families affected by addiction, an issue that is close to Farley's heart.

• Personal Connection
  

  Farley's brother, Chris Farley, struggled with addiction and died of a drug overdose in 1997. This personal experience motivated Farley to co-found the center in 2008 as a way to help other families who are struggling with addiction.

• Mission and Services
  

  The Farley Center provides a variety of services to families affected by addiction, including support groups, educational resources, and referrals to treatment programs. The center also works to raise awareness about addiction and to reduce the stigma associated with it.

• Impact and Recognition
  

  The Farley Center has made a significant impact on the community. The center has helped thousands of families affected by addiction, and it has been recognized for its work by several organizations, including the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence.

• Legacy
  

  Farley's philanthropic work is a reflection of his character and his commitment to making a difference in the world. The Farley Center for Peace, Justice, and Unity is a lasting legacy that will continue to help families affected by addiction for years to come.

Kevin Farley's philanthropic work is an important part of his story. It shows that he is not only a talented actor and comedian, but also a compassionate and caring individual who is committed to helping others.

FAQs on Actor Kevin Farley

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about actor Kevin Farley, aiming to clarify common misconceptions and provide concise information.

Question 1: What is Kevin Farley best known for?

Kevin Farley is best known for his comedic roles in films such as Tommy Boy (1995) and Black Sheep (1996), as well as his impersonations of celebrities on Saturday Night Live, particularly his portrayal of motivational speaker Matt Foley.

Question 2: Is Kevin Farley related to Chris Farley?

Yes, Kevin Farley is the younger brother of the late comedian Chris Farley. The two brothers often collaborated on comedic projects.

Question 3: What is the Farley Center for Peace, Justice, and Unity?

The Farley Center for Peace, Justice, and Unity is a non-profit organization co-founded by Kevin Farley in memory of his brother, Chris. The center provides support and resources to families affected by addiction.

Question 4: Is Kevin Farley still acting?

Yes, Kevin Farley continues to act in films and television shows. He has also worked as a voice actor in animated films such as Shrek and Madagascar.

Question 5: What was Kevin Farley's role in Saturday Night Live?

Kevin Farley was a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1990 to 1994. He was known for his impressions of celebrities and his original characters, including the lovable and dim-witted Todd.

Question 6: What is Kevin Farley's comedic style?

Kevin Farley's comedic style is characterized by its self-deprecating humor and its ability to find the funny in everyday situations. He is known for his physical comedy and his energetic performances.

This concludes the FAQs on actor Kevin Farley. For more detailed information on these topics, please refer to reputable sources.

Transition to the next article section: Get an in-depth exploration of Kevin Farley's acting career, from his early days on Saturday Night Live to his memorable film roles.

Tips by Actor Kevin Farley

Kevin Farley, the renowned comedian and actor, has shared valuable insights and tips throughout his career. His experiences on Saturday Night Live and in numerous films have equipped him with a wealth of knowledge that can benefit aspiring performers and entertainment enthusiasts.

Tip 1: Embrace PhysicalityFarley emphasizes the importance of physical comedy and using one's body to convey emotions and humor. He encourages actors to explore different physicalities and mannerisms to create memorable characters.Tip 2: Study the CraftFarley stresses the significance of studying acting techniques, observing other performers, and continuously honing one's skills. He advises aspiring actors to attend workshops, analyze films, and seek opportunities to perform and improve.Tip 3: Find Your Unique VoiceFarley encourages actors to develop their own unique comedic style and voice. He believes that authenticity and originality are crucial for creating a lasting impression.Tip 4: Take RisksFarley advocates for taking risks and stepping outside of one's comfort zone. He encourages actors to embrace challenges, experiment with different roles, and push their boundaries to grow as performers.Tip 5: Collaborate and Support OthersFarley highlights the importance of collaboration and supporting fellow actors. He emphasizes the value of working together, sharing ideas, and creating a positive and supportive environment.Tip 6: Stay GroundedFarley advises actors to remain grounded and humble despite the fame and attention that may come with success. He encourages them to stay true to themselves, connect with their audience, and use their platform to make a positive impact.

Conclusion

Kevin Farley's journey as an actor and comedian is a testament to his talent, dedication, and ability to connect with audiences. From his early days on Saturday Night Live to his memorable roles in films such as Tommy Boy and Black Sheep, Farley has consistently brought laughter and joy to people around the world.

Farley's commitment to his craft, his willingness to take risks, and his genuine love of performing have all contributed to his success. He is an inspiration to aspiring actors and a reminder that hard work, passion, and a unique comedic voice can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career in the entertainment industry.