Dan Aykroyd is a comedy legend whose iconic characters, witty scripts, and entrepreneurial spirit have left a lasting mark on pop culture. From his early days on “Saturday Night Live” to the creation of the Blues Brothers and his memorable role in “Ghostbusters,” Aykroyd’s career is filled with both critical and commercial successes.
Key Takeaways
- Dan Aykroyd’s biggest box office hits stem from the 1980s and early 1990s, highlighting the popularity of his comedic roles and original concepts.
- His co-writing and starring roles in films like “Ghostbusters” and “The Blues Brothers” demonstrate his ability to create and carry successful franchises.
- Aykroyd’s dramatic roles in films like “Driving Miss Daisy” show a depth beyond comedy and showcase his acting range.
Dan Aykroyd’s Top-Grossing Movies of All Time (Least to Greatest)
13. Coneheads (1993)
Global Box Office: $21 million
This adaptation of a famous SNL skit, starring Aykroyd and Jane Curtin as quirky aliens stranded on Earth, found a niche audience but wasn’t a major blockbuster.
12. The Great Outdoors (1988)
Global Box Office: $41 million
Playing the obnoxious brother-in-law to John Candy’s family man, Aykroyd delivered comedic gold in this classic vacation-gone-wrong comedy.
T-10. The Blues Brothers (1980)
Global Box Office: $57 million
Aykroyd’s passion project, co-created with John Belushi, spawned a cult following, a successful band, and even the House of Blues franchise.
T-10. Dragnet (1987)
Global Box Office: $57 million
Playing the laid-back detective opposite Tom Hanks, Aykroyd’s comedic timing contrasted perfectly with Hanks’ by-the-book character, leading to a hilarious buddy-cop film.
T-8. Spies Like Us (1985)
Global Box Office: $60 million
Aykroyd co-wrote and starred alongside Chevy Chase in this comedic spy caper. Its success further cemented his status as a comedic force in the ’80s.
T-8. My Girl (1991)
Global Box Office: $60 million
Aykroyd took on a touching supporting role as the widowed father of a young girl navigating friendship and loss in this coming-of-age story.
7. Christmas with the Kranks (2004)
Global Box Office: $73 million
Aykroyd brings his unique charm to this holiday comedy as the neighbor to Jamie Lee Curtis and Tim Allen’s quirky characters.
6. Trading Places (1983)
Global Box Office: $90 million
In this classic rags-to-riches comedy, Aykroyd stars alongside Eddie Murphy in a hilarious and socially conscious tale.
5. Driving Miss Daisy (1989)
Global Box Office: $106 Million
Aykroyd won critical acclaim for his dramatic role in this Best Picture Oscar winner, showcasing a different side to his acting talents.
4. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984)
Global Box Office: $180 million
While a small part, Aykroyd contributed to the success of this Indiana Jones adventure, adding a touch of humor to the action-packed film.
3. Pearl Harbor (2001)
Global Box Office: $198 million
Aykroyd delivered a strong dramatic performance in this epic historical war film.
2. Ghostbusters II (1989)
Global Box Office: $215,394,738
Aykroyd reprised his iconic role as Dr. Raymond Stantz in this much-anticipated sequel to the smash hit original.
1. Ghostbusters (1984)
Global Box Office: $295,212,467 (includes re-releases)
Aykroyd’s co-writing and starring role in this supernatural comedy classic made him a household name and created a beloved franchise that continues today.