Hughes’ debut into the film world was writing the 1982 National Lampoons installment Class Reunion, with Michael Lerner and Miriam Flynn. The following year, Hughes really began making a name for himself in the writing world by penning the script for the highly successful comedy Mr. Mom, starring Michael Keaton and Teri Garr. By virtue of his previous success, Hughes earned the chance to direct.

In 1984, Hughes made his directorial debut with the quintessentially 80s film Sixteen Candles. Starring brat pack regular Molly Ringwald as well as Anthony Michael Hall, Justin Henry, and John Cusack, the film was met with huge commercial success. Solidifying his place as one of the hottest writer/directors around, Hughes’ next film was the equally as popular project The Breakfast Club, with Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson, Ally Sheedy, and Sixteen Candles star Ringwald. Not even slowing to take a break, his next project was the lesser known but cult classic Weird Science, with Bill Paxton and Robert Downey Jr.

1986 brought one of Hughes’ most well-known and well-loved works—Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. The film helped launch the careers of Matthew Broderick, Alan Ruck, Jennifer Grey, and Charlie Sheen. Continuing at his breakneck pace, 1987 brought the wildly popular comedy Planes, Trains & Automobiles, with Steve Martin, John Candy, and Michael McKean. Hughes and Candy developed a friendship that proved lasting. Hughes collaborated with Candy for several more films, most notably Uncle Buck and The Great Outdoors. When Candy died, Hughes was one of the few people invited to his small, private funeral.

Hughes is also associated with the smash success Home Alone, with Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, and Catherine O Hara. He also wrote all subsequent installments in the Home Alone series. In addition, he is known for the family comedy Beethoven and its four sequels. Hughes last directorial project was in 1991 with the James Belushi and Kelly Lynch comedy Curly Sue. Although his directing has slowed noticeably, his writing and producing credits continue to impress. Hughes was responsible for the Jennifer Lopez and Ralph Fiennes romance Maid in Manhattan, and he is currently in post-production for the comedy Drillbit Taylor. Several prominent directors and writers cite Hughes as an inspiration, including Dogma creator Kevin Smith. Hughes has never been married nor have there been any high profile rumors of his romantic involvements.

YUDDY