Dave Foley, Canadian comedian, actor, director, and producer

Dave Foley, born on January 4, 1963, is a highly versatile Canadian-American talent widely recognized for his extensive contributions across comedy, television, film, and voice acting. His multifaceted career spans being an accomplished actor, a seasoned stand-up comedian, a skilled director, a dedicated producer, and a prolific writer, showcasing a remarkable breadth of artistic capabilities.

The Kids in the Hall: A Foundation in Sketch Comedy

Foley is perhaps most prominently known as a pivotal co-founder of the groundbreaking Canadian sketch comedy troupe, The Kids in the Hall. Formed in Toronto in 1984, the group, consisting of Foley, Kevin McDonald, Bruce McCulloch, Mark McKinney, and Scott Thompson, quickly gained a cult following for their unique blend of surrealism, character-driven humor, and edgy satire. Their innovative approach to comedy broke traditional molds, often featuring cross-dressing characters and challenging social norms with intelligence and wit. The troupe achieved widespread acclaim through their eponymous television sketch comedy show, The Kids in the Hall, which originally aired from 1988 to 1995 on CBC in Canada and HBO/CBS in the United States. This seminal series, known for its memorable characters like the Head Crusher and Buddy Cole, garnered numerous awards and nominations, including multiple Gemini Awards for Best Variety or Performing Arts Program. Their collaborative spirit extended to the big screen with the 1996 feature film, Brain Candy, which further cemented their legacy in the comedy world. The group's enduring influence was highlighted by their 2022 revival series on Amazon Prime Video, demonstrating their continued relevance and comedic prowess.

Iconic Sitcom Roles: From NewsRadio to Hot in Cleveland

Beyond his sketch comedy roots, Dave Foley made a significant mark in network television sitcoms. He became a beloved figure as Dave Nelson, the mild-mannered and often exasperated news director on the critically acclaimed sitcom NewsRadio, which aired from 1995 to 1999. His portrayal of the straight man amidst a chaotic and eccentric ensemble cast, including Phil Hartman, Maura Tierney, and Stephen Root, was central to the show's intelligent humor and sharp writing. Later in his career, Foley also became a familiar face to audiences through his recurring role as Bob Moore in the popular TV Land sitcom Hot in Cleveland, appearing in 17 episodes between 2010 and 2015 alongside stars like Betty White and Valerie Bertinelli, further diversifying his comedic portfolio.

A Distinguished Voice Acting Career

Foley's distinctive voice has brought life to numerous animated characters, making him a sought-after talent in the voice-over industry. One of his most recognizable voice roles is Flik, the earnest and inventive protagonist ant in Pixar's second full-length animated feature film, the critically and commercially successful A Bug's Life (1998). His performance as Flik resonated with audiences worldwide, contributing significantly to the film's charm. He continued his work with Pixar, lending his voice to the conjoined twin monsters Terri and Terry Perry in the 2013 prequel Monsters University. These roles underscore his versatility and ability to convey depth and personality through voice alone.

Beyond Acting: Hosting and Producing Ventures

Demonstrating his broad appeal and versatility, Dave Foley also stepped into the role of host for the popular game show Celebrity Poker Showdown on Bravo from 2003 to 2006. This venture allowed him to showcase a different facet of his public persona, engaging with celebrities in a competitive, yet lighthearted, environment. Throughout his career, Foley has also taken on producer and director credits, particularly within projects related to The Kids in the Hall, highlighting his comprehensive involvement in various aspects of entertainment production.

Dave Foley's career is a testament to his enduring talent and adaptability, establishing him as a cherished figure in both Canadian and American entertainment landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dave Foley

When was Dave Foley born?

Dave Foley was born on January 4, 1963.

What is Dave Foley best known for?

Dave Foley is widely known for being a co-founder of the iconic sketch comedy group The Kids in the Hall, starring in their television show and film Brain Candy. He is also recognized for his role as Dave Nelson in the sitcom NewsRadio and for voicing characters like Flik in Pixar's A Bug's Life and Terri and Terry in Monsters University.

Is Dave Foley Canadian or American?

Dave Foley is Canadian-American. He was born in Canada and later became a naturalized American citizen.

What role did Dave Foley play in NewsRadio?

In NewsRadio, Dave Foley played the main character, Dave Nelson, the diligent and often beleaguered news director of a New York City news radio station.

What animated characters has Dave Foley voiced?

Dave Foley has notably voiced Flik, the protagonist in Pixar's A Bug's Life, and the conjoined twin monsters Terri and Terry in Monsters University.