Tim Matheson Clarifies If John Belushi Did Drugs On Set Of ‘Animal House’

Tim Matheson is out with a new memoir Damn Glad to Meet You: My Seven Decades in the Hollywood Trenches, where he wrote about his relationship with his late co-star John Belushi. They both starred in the 1978 comedy classic National Lampoon’s Animal House, where they shared many memories.

Tim noted in his memoir that Belushi is the co-star he gets asked about the most, which explains why he did not pass up the chance to talk about him in his new release. He clarified Belushi’s reputation with drugs, and how he juggled his career with his vices.

Did John Belushi do drugs on ‘Animal House?’

Tim noted that their Animal House director, John Landis, ensured Belushi was drug-free on set; however, he cannot confidently say the same about the actor outside of filming. He added that his late costar was on his best behavior throughout the project despite rousing suspicion when he first showed up.

Tim wrote that the cast and crew— including himself, were surprised at the version of Belushi they got— friendly, quiet, and thoughtful, which was relieving for them. Belushi played Bluto in the classic, who was slightly a reminder of his real-life reputation.

What happened to John Belushi?

Belushi had a history of drug addiction as he indulged in substances like cocaine, which contributed to his eventual demise at 33 in 1982. He had dosed on a harmful combination of heroin and coke, which Cathy Smith admitted to providing him.

The late star reportedly suffered from a respiratory disease, and his lifestyle only made things worse. Tim mentioned that he tried his best to get Belushi off drugs, as he was scared to lose a potential megastar and friend the whole time. He admitted that he was not surprised at the news of his passing a few years after they collaborated.