Part 1/8:
The Early Days of Cheech and Chong: From Canada to Comedy Stardom
Cheech and Chong, the iconic comedy duo known for their irreverent take on cannabis culture, first forged their partnership in an unconventional setting: Canada. Both men were involved in very different pursuits before they found their comedic synergy. Cheech Marin was a part of the draft resistance movement during the Vietnam War, attempting to evade enlistment, while Thomas Chong was in Canada running from the draft. Their paths crossed in Vancouver, where Chong operated an improvisational theater in a strip bar—a unique backdrop that would set the stage for their eventual comedic collaboration.