Andy Jones (comedian) facts for kids

Andrew Jordan Jones (born January 15, 1948) is a Canadian comedian, actor, and writer. He is well-known for being a part of the comedy group CODCO. He has also received special honours like the Order of Canada and the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Early Life and Education

Andy Jones was born in St. John's, Newfoundland. He grew up with three siblings. His sister, Cathy Jones, is also a famous comedian. His brother, Michael Jones, was a filmmaker.

Andy went to St. Bonaventure's College and then Gonzaga High School. He later earned a degree in Theology and English from St. Mary's University. After that, he studied drama at the University of Alberta and the University of Toronto. He acted in many plays while he was a student.

Comedy and Acting Career

Andy Jones started his career performing with theatre groups in England. Later, he joined The Newfoundland Travelling Theatre Company. In 1974, he became a member of the comedy group CODCO. He wrote for and performed in four seasons of the CODCO TV show from 1988 to 1991.

He also wrote for one season of the popular comedy show The Kids in the Hall. He even had a small role in their movie, Brain Candy.

Theatre and TV Roles

Andy Jones has performed in many plays. He adapted a famous play called Tartuffe by Molière. This play was shown at the National Arts Centre in 2013. It also toured around Newfoundland in 2017.

He played the character Scrooge in A Christmas Carol at the National Arts Centre in 2016 and 2017.

You might have seen him on CBC Television comedies. He appeared in shows like Dooley Gardens, Republic of Doyle, and Little Dog. In Little Dog, he played a main character named Lowly Ross Sr.

Film and One-Man Shows

Andy Jones also worked on movies. He starred in, co-wrote, and co-directed the 1986 film The Adventure of Faustus Bidgood. He has acted in other films too, such as Rare Birds and Sweetland.

Since 1983, Andy has written and performed five one-man comedy shows. He has toured these shows to different places.

In 2006, he opened an exhibit at The Rooms museum in St. John's. It was called "The Spirit in the House." A special part of this exhibit is a large illustrated manuscript/table called 'The Abbie Table'. This unique artwork continues to travel to art galleries, schools, and libraries.

Children's Books

Andy Jones has written six children's books. These books are based on traditional Newfoundland folktales. His book Jack and Mary in the Land of Thieves won the Winterset Award in 2013. Another book, Jack, the King of Ashes, was nominated for a Governor General's Award in 2015 for its illustrations.

Published Books

• Peg Bearskin, 2003
• The Queen of Paradise's Garden, 2009
• Jack and Mary in the Land of Thieves, 2011
• Jack, the King of Ashes, 2014

Awards and Recognition

Andy Jones has been recognized for his contributions to Canadian arts.

• In 2019, he was named a Member of the Order of Canada. This is one of Canada's highest honours.
• In 2024, he became a Member of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador. This award recognizes people who have shown great achievement and service to the province.