Harold Ramis

Date of Birth: November 21, 1944

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: February 24, 2014

Biography

Harold Allen Ramis was an American actor, comedian, director, and writer. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Ramis was a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, known for his sharp wit and remarkable talent in both acting and filmmaking. He began his career in the early 1970s as a performer and head writer for the legendary comedy troupe Second City in Chicago. His breakthrough came with his work on the sketch comedy television series “SCTV,” where he showcased his unique comedic style. Ramis is perhaps best known for his role as Dr. Egon Spengler in the iconic 1984 film “Ghostbusters,” which he co-wrote with Dan Aykroyd. His other notable acting credits include roles in “Stripes” (1981) and “Groundhog Day” (1993), the latter of which he also directed. Ramis was a versatile talent, seamlessly transitioning between acting, writing, and directing throughout his career. As a director, he was responsible for several beloved comedies, including “Caddyshack” (1980), “National Lampoon’s Vacation” (1983), and “Analyze This” (1999). Ramis’s work has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy, influencing countless comedians and filmmakers. He passed away on February 24, 2014, but his legacy continues to live on through his films and the laughter they inspire.

5 Interesting Facts about Harold Ramis

1. Harold Ramis was originally a medical student before deciding to pursue a career in comedy and writing.

2. He co-wrote the screenplay for “Animal House” (1978), a film that became a defining moment in American comedy.

3. Ramis was a member of the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity while attending Washington University in St. Louis.

4. He suffered from autoimmune inflammatory vasculitis, a condition that affected his health significantly in his later years.

5. Ramis received the Austin Film Festival’s Distinguished Screenwriter Award in 2004, acknowledging his significant contributions to the craft.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harold Ramis

1. “I always claim that the writer has done 90 percent of the director’s work.”

2. “Nothing reinforces a professional relationship more than enjoying success with someone.”

3. “You can’t not have feelings about country clubs, whichever side you’re on.”

4. “My characters aren’t losers. They’re rebels. They win by their refusal to play by everyone else’s rules.”

5. “I believe things happen that can’t be explained, but so often people are looking for miracles.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Harold Ramis’s net worth was estimated to be around $50 million.

Children

Harold Ramis had three children: Violet Stiel, born from his first marriage to Anne Plotkin, and Julian Arthur Ramis and Daniel Hayes Ramis, from his second marriage to Erica Mann.