Mike Myers: The Iconic Comedian Behind Austin Powers And Shrek

Mike Myers, born on May 25, 1963, in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, is a beloved actor and comedian who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. With a career that began in the Second City Comedy Troupe, Myers quickly rose to fame as a standout cast member on Saturday Night Live. He is best known for his unforgettable characters and hilarious performances in blockbuster films like Shrek, Wayne's World, and the Austin Powers trilogy. His unique blend of humor and charm has captivated audiences for decades, making him a household name.

Growing up in a British household, Myers was heavily influenced by his father's love of comedy, which instilled in him a passion for making people laugh. He honed his craft through various comedic endeavors, leading to a successful career that spans over three decades. From his early days performing in Toronto to his rise as a Hollywood superstar, Myers' journey is an inspiring testament to talent and determination.

This article will delve into the life and career of Mike Myers, exploring his early influences, notable achievements, and personal life. We will look at how he became one of the most recognized comedians of his generation and the legacy he continues to build today.

Table of Contents

• Who Is Mike Myers?
• Early Life
• TV and Movies
• Personal Life
• Quick Facts
• Quotes

Who Is Mike Myers?

Mike Myers gained his comic footing in the Second City Comedy Troupe. He later gained success and fame as a central cast member of Saturday Night Live, creating such characters as Linda Richman and Sprockets, before going on to even greater success in Hollywood films such as Shrek, Wayne's World, and the Austin Powers trilogy.

Early Life

A talented comedic writer and actor, Myers was born to British parents in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, on May 25, 1963. His father, Eric, who worked as an encyclopedia salesman, was an important influence on Myers. He shared his love of British comedy with his sons—Myers and his older brothers, Peter and Paul—and sometimes would wake the boys up late at night to watch episodes of Monty Python or Benny Hill.

Myers began his professional career as a child actor, appearing in commercials. After finishing high school, he joined the Toronto outpost of the popular Chicago comedy group Second City. Myers went out on his own for a short period in the mid-1980s, taking his comedy to London, but returned to Toronto after his father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

TV and Movies

'Saturday Night Live' and 'Wayne's World'

In 1989, Myers auditioned for the popular comedy show Saturday Night Live and quickly won over the show's creator, Lorne Michaels. He joined the cast as a featured player that same year, working alongside such other comedic talents as Dana Carvey, Phil Hartman, and Kevin Nealon. Myers became a full cast member the following season, creating several memorable characters on the show.

While on Saturday Night Live, Myers had his first hit film, Wayne's World, in 1992. He reprised his SNL role as Wayne Campbell on the big screen, co-starring with fellow SNL cast mate Dana Carvey. The pair quickly followed up that box office success with the 1993 sequel Wayne's World 2.

'Austin Powers' Trilogy and 'Shrek'

Myers left SNL after the 1994-95 season. He incorporated the swinging 1960s and spy thrillers of England to create Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997). This spy spoof featured Myers as the bespectacled title character, as well as several other characters in the film, including Powers's nemesis, Dr. Evil.

Around this time, Myers also launched another successful film franchise, 2001's animated film Shrek. He lent his voice to the title character, an ogre with a Scottish accent. Myers told Entertainment Weekly about his first reaction to the project: "I thought it was the worst title ever in the world. It sounded like the sound I make after drinking 12 Molson Canadian beers."

Personal Life

Myers married his first wife, Robin Ruzan, in 1993, and the couple divorced in 2006. In 2010, Myers married Kelly Tisdale. The couple welcomed a son, Spike, in 2011.

Quick Facts

Quotes

• My theory is that all of Scottish cuisine is based on a dare.
• For me, everything definitely comes from music.