The Early Years of Douglas Kenney
Douglas Kenney was born in West Palm Beach, Florida in 1947. He grew up in a privileged family and attended the exclusive Phillips Exeter Academy before enrolling at Harvard University. It was at Harvard where he met Henry Beard, and the two would go on to create the National Lampoon magazine.
Kenney was known for his sharp wit and humor, and his writing style was irreverent and satirical. He and Beard quickly gained a following and became the driving force behind the magazine, which would eventually lead to a series of successful movies.
The National Lampoon Years
Kenney and Beard were the co-founders of National Lampoon, which was first published in 1970. The magazine became a cultural phenomenon, with its mix of satire, humor, and social commentary. Kenney was the editor-in-chief and wrote many of the magazine’s most popular articles.
Kenney’s work with National Lampoon led to a series of successful movies, including Animal House and Caddyshack. He was known for his ability to push boundaries and his willingness to take risks, which made him a beloved figure in the comedy world.
The Success of Caddyshack
Caddyshack was released in 1980 and quickly became a cult classic. The movie was co-written by Kenney, who also had a small role in the film. Caddyshack was a commercial success and is still considered one of the greatest comedies of all time.
Kenney’s success with Caddyshack led to other opportunities in Hollywood, but he struggled with addiction and depression. Despite his success, he was never able to fully overcome his personal demons.
The Death of Douglas Kenney
In 1980, Kenney died under mysterious circumstances while on a trip to Hawaii. The official cause of death was listed as accidental drowning, but there are still many unanswered questions surrounding his death.
Kenney’s legacy lives on through his work with National Lampoon and his contributions to the world of comedy. His life and career have been the subject of several books and documentaries, including the recent Netflix film A Futile and Stupid Gesture.
The Personal Life of Douglas Kenney
Kenney was known for his wit and humor, but he also struggled with addiction and depression. He was married to Alexandra Appleton Garcia Mata, who he met while studying at Harvard. The two had a tumultuous relationship, and Kenney’s personal struggles put a strain on their marriage.
Despite his personal challenges, Kenney was a beloved figure in the comedy world and his contributions to National Lampoon and Hollywood will never be forgotten.
