Tommy Chong

Tommy Chong, born Thomas B. Kin Chong in 1938, is a multifaceted personality who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment scene. Known primarily for his contribution to the comedic duo Cheech & Chong alongside Richard "Cheech" Marin, Chong's impact extends beyond comedy into various other realms including acting, writing, directing, and activism. Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Chong started his journey in entertainment as a musician before transitioning into comedy. His big break came in the late 60s when he met Cheech Marin in Vancouver. The two quickly formed a bond, resulting in the creation of Cheech & Chong. Their brand of humor, often revolving around free love, counterculture, and most notably, cannabis, resonated with the youth of the time. Their first album, Cheech & Chong, was released in 1971 and was an immediate success. In total, they released eight albums, four of which were nominated for the Grammy Award, with Los Cochinos winning the award for Best Comedy Recording in 1973. The duo also starred in a series of successful films, most notably Up in Smoke (1978), which became a cult classic. Apart from his work with Cheech, Chong has had a successful solo career in television and film. He appeared in popular TV shows like That '70s Show and Dharma & Greg, and lent his voice to several animated projects such as The Lion King" and Zootopia. As a writer-director, he helmed several episodes of Cheech & Chong's The Corsican Brothers and Chong's Animated Movie. Beyond his entertainment pursuits, Chong is renowned for his advocacy for cannabis legalization, which has often put him at odds with authorities. Despite facing legal troubles due to his activism, Chong remains a staunch supporter of cannabis rights and continues to use his platform to promote this cause. His contributions to entertainment and activism have established him as a unique and influential figure in popular culture.