British vocalist and actor Cynthia Erivo released an intimate, reimagined version of the 1980s hit “Everytime You Go Away.” The original track was written by Daryl Hall of Hall & Oates and gained fame through Paul Young’s soulful performance. Erivo’s rendition appears in the new Prime Video documentary John Candy: I Like Me, directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds.
Erivo spoke about her admiration for the late comedian and the emotional inspiration behind her performance in the film.
“John Candy brought so much joy to people’s lives, and it’s an honor to celebrate his legacy through this song. ‘Everytime You Go Away’ is one of my favorites and carries such tenderness. I hope my version captures even a fraction of the warmth he gave the world.”
The documentary John Candy: I Like Me features heartfelt interviews with the actor’s friends, family, and colleagues, alongside rare archival footage and imagery. It offers a fresh and personal look at who John Candy really was beyond the screen.
Producer Ryan Reynolds praised Erivo’s artistry and emotional depth in her interpretation.
“Cynthia Erivo is a once-in-a-generation talent. I called and asked her if she’d do the song. She doesn’t just sing, she feels it in every note. It’s the song it’s supposed to be, in the movie it’s meant to be in. It somehow captured the joy and the loss and the enduring kindness of John Candy. Cynthia delivered my favorite song, and it haunts me.”
Author’s note: Cynthia Erivo’s stripped-down rendition bridges nostalgia and emotion, serving as both a musical and spiritual homage to John Candy’s enduring charm.