Jim Belushi Embraces Life Beyond Hollywood
Jim Belushi seems to have it all—years of professional achievements, a network of friends across various circles, and a serene ranch in Oregon that he lovingly refers to as his “sanctuary.”
Belushi, host of the A&E show “K9 PD with Jim Belushi,” shared with Fox News Digital that his ranch is more than just a retreat; it’s also a deeply “spiritual” space for him. “Oregon is stunning. I really enjoy it,” he remarked about his home, which is featured in a reality series focused on his cannabis farm. He added, “I built a sweat lodge there and often partake in various Native American ceremonies.”
Having established roots in southern Oregon around 20 years ago, Belushi now enjoys life on his property. “Right now, I have 50 cows, and they just had 50 calves—so adorable to watch them play,” he noted. He even mentioned a funny incident where the calves managed to break free and wandered into his front yard, prompting a little chaos as he tried to herd them back.
Belushi shared, “I love Oregon. It’s breathtaking. And the people are genuinely kind.” While farming presents its own set of challenges, he’s quite at ease working with animals. This comfort likely stems from his past role as Detective Michael Dooley in the 1989 film “K-9,” where he partnered with a police dog named Jerry Lee.
Reflecting on his acting career, Belushi noted how spontaneity plays a crucial role in performance. “There’s an old saying: don’t work with kids or animals. But I’ve done both with ‘K9’ and ‘Curly Sue.’ The key with working with dogs is being present; that’s when real magic happens,” he stated, recalling an unscripted moment with a dog during a scene where the animal playfully interrupted his first kiss.
Belushi believes that both kids and dogs bring a certain authenticity to the camera. “They don’t distinguish between action and cut; they just embody the moment,” he explained. His improvisational background certainly aids in this regard, allowing him to react in the moment and draw out genuine interactions.
His latest project, “K9 PD with Jim Belushi,” showcases the bond between police officers and their K9 partners. He described the series as visceral, filled with tension but also heartwarming moments that highlight the deep connection between handlers and their dogs. “It’s about the relationship between these animals and their human counterparts,” he added, emphasizing how protective they are of one another, not just on duty but also within their homes.
Belushi’s excitement for this project stems from his personal passion for action and adventure. The show blends drama and humor, capturing the intensity of K9 units and the genuine emotions shared during critical moments. “I love action, and this series felt like the perfect fit for me,” he concluded.
