One Of The Funniest People In The World

Tommy Chong was a guest on Time 4 Hemp, click here to listen to that segment.

A Journey Through Marijuana Humor To Becoming A Medical Cannabis Icon

Written by Casper Leitch

Thomas B. Kin Chong, a multifaceted artist and cultural icon, was born on May 24, 1938. Renowned as one half of the dynamic comedic duo Cheech and Chong, he achieved widespread fame for their sharp satire and comedic sketches. With a repertoire boasting 11 comedy albums alongside Cheech and a string of successful films, Chong has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy.

Beyond his comedic prowess, Tommy Chong has also made a significant impact as an actor, gracing the screens of both television and film. Following his split from Cheech, he garnered acclaim for his roles as 'Leo' in 'That ‘70s Show' and 'Carl' in 'Dharma & Greg.' Chong's journey into entertainment began in Vancouver's Chinatown, where he kick-started his career at a local strip club before venturing into music.

At the age of 16, Chong made the bold decision to leave high school and pursue his passion for music. As a skilled guitarist, he found success with various musical groups, ultimately forming Bobby Taylor & the Vancouvers, which secured a record deal with Motown. Their chart-topping hit "Does Your Mama Know About Me?" co-written by Chong, soared to the upper echelons of the music charts into the #29 spot on Billboards Top 100, cementing his place in the industry.

However, Chong's musical journey took an unexpected turn when he was ousted from the band by a Motown producer. Undeterred, he returned to Vancouver and immersed himself in the city's burgeoning comedy scene. Inspired by the performances he witnessed, Chong began honing his comedic skills, eventually teaming up with Richard “Cheech” Marin to form Cheech and Chong.

Their collaboration resulted in nine comedy albums, numerous successful films (some directed by Chong himself), and a slew of memorable live performances. Together, they pushed the boundaries of comedy, tackling taboo subjects with wit and irreverence, and capturing the spirit of counterculture with their unique brand of humor.

Cheech and Chong emerged as comedic trailblazers in the early 1970s, encapsulating the essence of counterculture with an authenticity unmatched by their peers. They fearlessly delved into the zeitgeist of the post-hippie era, skewering societal norms with their trademark blend of irreverence and wit.

Their live performances were uproarious spectacles, tackling a myriad of taboo topics with gusto, from race and politics to the Vietnam War. With impeccable timing and boundless energy, they enraptured audiences, earning acclaim for their candid portrayal of contemporary issues.

Their comedic prowess transcended the stage with the release of their debut self-titled album, 'Cheech & Chong,' which quickly became a cultural phenomenon. This success was followed by the equally acclaimed 'Big Bambu' the following year.

From 1973 to 1976, their comedic juggernaut continued to gather momentum with the release of albums such as 'Los Cochinos' and 'Cheech & Chong’s Wedding Album,' earning them a coveted Grammy Award for Best Comedy Recording in 1973.

Their foray into cinema with the iconic film 'Up In Smoke' in 1978 solidified their status as pioneers of stoner comedy. Through their hilarious antics and irreverent humor, they provided a satirical commentary on societal attitudes towards marijuana, resonating deeply with audiences.

In subsequent years, Chong remained prolific, releasing albums like 'Let’s Make a New Dope Deal' and starring in a slew of films, including 'Nice Dreams' and 'Still Smokin.' However, 1985 marked a somber turning point as Cheech and Chong parted ways, with Cheech pursuing a solo career.

Despite the dissolution of their partnership, the legacy of Cheech and Chong endures, symbolizing an era of cultural rebellion and comedic brilliance. While their professional relationship was rooted in a shared passion for their craft and cannabis, Chong himself has acknowledged that their bond, while strong, never evolved into a deep personal friendship. Yet, their enduring partnership continues to inspire laughter and nostalgia among fans worldwide, a testament to their enduring impact on comedy and popular culture.

After parting ways with Cheech, Tommy Chong ventured into television with his role as 'T.R. "Jumbo" Collins' in the series 'Miami Vice' in 1986. Following this, he graced the big screen in the movie 'Far Out Man' four years later.

During the late 1980s to the mid-1990s, Chong's cinematic presence continued to shine in films like 'Tripwire,' 'The Spirit of '76,' 'Life After Sex,' and 'National Lampoon’s Senior Trip.'

In 1997, he showcased his acting chops in the television series 'Sliders,' portraying the character 'Van Elsinger.' However, it was his recurring role as 'Leo Chingkwake' in the acclaimed American sitcom 'That ‘70s Show' that truly catapulted him into television stardom.

Transitioning to animation, Chong lent his voice to 'Chief Running Pinto' in the beloved series 'South Park' in 2000. The following year, he graced the silver screen in the film 'The Wash.'

From 2003 to 2007, Chong remained active in both film and television, starring in projects such as 'Best Buds,' 'Evil Bong,' and 'American Drug War: The Last White Hope.' Additionally, he made notable appearances in the television series 'The George Lopez Show.'

In 2003, Chong Glass/Nice Dreams, a company co-founded by Tommy and his son Paris, found itself embroiled in two investigations targeting businesses selling drug paraphernalia. To shield his family from legal repercussions, Chong, along with his legal team, orchestrated a plea deal. This agreement saw the comedian admitting to one count of conspiracy to distribute drug paraphernalia.

Despite his earnest endeavors, Chong's negotiation attempts for public service and house arrest fell short. Consequently, he received a nine-month prison sentence, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Remarkably, among the 55 individuals charged, Chong stood as the sole defendant with no prior convictions to serve jail time. While his incarceration briefly halted his role as the free-spirited Leo on That '70s Show, Chong later resumed his television appearances and stand-up performances.

In recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry, Tommy Chong was honored with induction into the Canadian Alternative Hall of Fame in 2005. From 2008 to 2011, he graced the small screen with his presence in various beloved television shows, including ‘Code Monkeys,’ ‘MADtv,’ ‘WWE Raw,’ ‘The Simpsons,’ and ‘Franklin and Bash.’ Notably, during this period, Chong reunited with his longtime partner Cheech Marin for a memorable ‘South Park’ episode, marking the commencement of their joint touring endeavors.

In 2012, Tommy Chong made a public announcement revealing his diagnosis with prostate cancer. Known for his advocacy of marijuana legalization and its medical applications, Chong incorporated cannabis into his treatment regimen. Remarkably, less than a year later, Chong disclosed in an interview on 'Time 4 Hemp' that he had successfully overcome the disease with a combination of hash oil and dietary supplements.

Teaming up with his long-time partner Cheech, Chong ventured into the realm of animation with the release of ‘Cheech & Chong’s Animated Movie’ in 2013. This animated feature showcases some of their most iconic comedic moments. Following this, the duo released several shorts, capturing the essence of their live performances. Additionally, Chong lent his voice to the character ‘Yax’ in the animated film ‘Zootopia.’ His on-screen presence continued with appearances in movies such as ‘It’s Gawd!,’ ‘The Peach Panther,’ ‘Color out of Space,’ and ‘Jay and Silent Bob Reboot.’

Between 2013 and 2019, Chong graced numerous comedy shows with guest appearances, including ‘Satisfaction,’ ‘Uncle Grandpa,’ ‘Disjointed,’ and ‘The Masked Singer’ In a significant move, in 2023, he joined the cast of the American teen sitcom ‘That '90s Show’ reprising his role as ‘Leo Chingkwake’.

In 2015, Tommy Chong confronted another health challenge when he revealed that, despite his prostate cancer being in remission, he was undergoing treatment for rectal cancer. Ever the optimist, Chong approached the news with his trademark humor. During his stand-up routine, he quipped about the diagnosis, humorously referring to it as a "pain in the butt." He openly shared his increased use of cannabis during treatment, emphasizing his determination to maintain a positive outlook regardless of the outcome. Subsequently, he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in June 2016. However, by 2019, Chong proudly declared himself cancer-free once again.

Chong has credited his rapid recovery to the active lifestyle he maintained over seven decades. Whether it's bodybuilding or competing on Dancing With the Stars, physical fitness has consistently been integral to his life. He firmly believes that maintaining a lighthearted attitude during difficult times positively influences the body's response to adversity.

In his stand-up comedy routines, Tommy Chong candidly shares his experience of living with a colostomy bag following his diagnosis of colorectal cancer. While many might view an ostomy pouch as a significant life adjustment, Chong sees it differently. He humorously describes it as a positive change, highlighting the efficiency it brings to his life. On stage, he quips, "It's actually a good thing. I no longer spend agonizing minutes sitting on the toilet. I can walk into a bathroom and within minutes, change everything and be back out. Hey, what can I say, I'm a comedian, and I'm not going to hide what's going on with me. I'm going to turn it around into something good and funny. Comedy is the ultimate truth and laughter is the best medicine."

Tommy's journey is nothing short of fascinating. With a career spanning over four decades, he rose to fame alongside Cheech Marin, creating a cinematic legacy synonymous with cannabis and counterculture. Their films challenged societal norms, embodying resistance to the establishment. Over time, Chong transitioned from being a symbol of the counterculture movement to a savvy entrepreneur embracing the mainstreaming of marijuana and the involvement of corporate entities in the cannabis industry.

Despite facing legal restrictions that prevented his direct involvement in the cannabis industry due to past criminal charges related to cannabis paraphernalia, Chong found alternative avenues. He lent his name to a company operated by his son and a partner, showcasing his adaptability and entrepreneurial acumen. Tommy Chong's influence extends beyond being a marijuana icon; he is also a shrewd businessman navigating the evolving landscape of cannabis culture and commerce.

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I’m Kinda High