08/30/2026
Chris Farley was born on February 15, 1964, in Madison, Wisconsin, and became one of the most beloved physical comedians of his generation. He grew up in the Madison area and attended Marquette University, where he studied communications and theater and developed his passion for performing.
After college, Farley moved into Chicago’s comedy scene, performing with Improv Olympic and eventually The Second City. His energetic, physical style of comedy quickly made him stand out. At Second City, he developed one of his most famous characters, the extremely enthusiastic but disastrous motivational speaker Matt Foley.
Farley’s big break came in 1990, when he joined the cast of Saturday Night Live. He quickly became one of the show’s biggest stars, performing alongside comedians including Adam Sandler, David Spade, Chris Rock, Rob Schneider and Phil Hartman.
Farley remained on SNL until 1995, establishing himself as one of the show’s most recognizable performers.
Farley then moved into films and became particularly successful working with his close friend David Spade. His best-known movies included:
* Tommy Boy (1995) — arguably his signature film
* Black Sheep (1996)
* Beverly Hills Ninja (1997)
* Airheads (1994)
* Wayne’s World 2 (1993)
* Almost Heroes (1998), released after his death
Tommy Boy became especially beloved and has remained a cult comedy classic.
Farley’s success came while he was battling serious problems with substance abuse and addiction. On December 18, 1997, his brother John found him deceased in his apartment in Chicago’s John Hancock Center. He was only 33 years old.
The medical examiner determined that Farley died from an accidental overdose with coronary atherosclerosis also contributing to his death. His death was tragically reminiscent of that of his comedy idol, John Belushi.
Chris Farley was returned to his hometown of Madison, Wisconsin, for his funeral. A private funeral was held at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church on December 23, 1997, attended by family, friends and many of his fellow comedians.
He is entombed in the mausoleum at Resurrection Cemetery in Madison, Wisconsin