The devil costume scene in Planes, Trains & Automobiles might last only a few seconds, but it remains one of the funniest moments in the film. The 1987 comedy, starring Steve Martin and John Candy, is packed with humor, chaos, and heart. Yet, few fans know that this iconic scene was never in the script—it came to life because of pure improvisation on set.
According to People, John Candy’s son, Chris Candy, recently revealed how the famous moment happened. During a panel for the new documentary John Candy: I Like Me, he explained that his father and director John Hughes made up the scene while shooting. At the time, Paramount Pictures had sent executives to check on the production because it was running over budget and behind schedule. What they saw left them speechless—John Candy walking around dressed as the devil.
How The Devil Scene Came To Be
Chris Candy said his father loved keeping the mood light, even when pressure was high. “My father was wearing a devil’s costume and poking people in the butt,” he shared. “The executives asked, ‘Where is this in the script?’” There wasn’t any such scene, but Hughes and Candy decided to film it anyway. That moment turned into the devil costume scene in Planes, Trains & Automobiles that fans now love.
The brief shot became a highlight in the movie’s dream sequence, showing Steve Martin’s terrified reaction. It captured Candy’s playful nature and Hughes’ creative freedom. The devil costume scene in Planes, Trains & Automobiles also proved that some of the best comedy comes from unplanned moments.
Honoring John Candy’s Legacy
The new documentary John Candy: I Like Me celebrates more than Candy’s humor—it honors his warmth and generosity. Produced by Ryan Reynolds and directed by Colin Hanks, it includes home videos, family memories, and tributes from his friends and costars. Chris Candy described his father as someone who always wanted to make people laugh, even when life got heavy.
As audiences revisit the devil costume scene in Planes, Trains & Automobiles, it’s clear that John Candy’s spirit still shines through every laugh. His quick wit and charm helped create a comedy that remains timeless.