Macaulay Culkin has expressed his gratitude towards the late John Candy, recalling how Candy was perceptive enough to notice his difficult relationship with his father, Kit Culkin, long before others did. Culkin described his father's behavior as that of a "monster," and he believes Candy was one of the first to recognize it.

Culkin shared his reflections in the new documentary "John Candy: I Like Me," directed by Colin Hanks, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. Tom Hanks, Colin's father, also appears in the film. The documentary delves into the life and career of the beloved comedian, John Candy, who passed away in 1994.

Culkin, who starred alongside Candy in the 1989 film "Uncle Buck," recalls feeling a paternal connection with the comedy legend. He explained that Candy's protective instincts extended beyond their on-screen characters. According to Culkin, Candy's caring nature was particularly significant, considering the challenging relationship he had with his father at the time.

"I think he always had that really great instinct," Culkin stated in the documentary. "Listen, even before the wave crested and the Home Alone stuff was happening, it was not hard to see how difficult my father was. It was no secret. He was already a monster". Culkin gained immense fame for his role as Kevin McCallister in "Home Alone" and "Home Alone 2". He noted that his father's behavior worsened with his rising stardom, "All of a sudden, the fame and the money came, and he became an infamous monster," Culkin continued. "He was already not a good guy. I think John was looking a little side-eyed, like, 'Is everything alright over there? You doing good? Good day? Everything's alright?".

Culkin also noted that Candy was respectful and kind to both him and Gaby Hoffman, who played his on-screen sister in "Uncle Buck". He observed that many older actors find it difficult to work with children, but Candy always showed them respect, making Culkin feel included. "When you're eight years old, you don't really get respect, whether it's in a workplace or just from adults and grown-ups in general. You felt invited in," Culkin said.

Culkin has been estranged from his father for approximately 30 years. In the past, he has described his father as "the worst" and has expressed his desire to have nothing to do with him. He even took legal action to remove his parents' names from his trust fund. Culkin asserted that his father "deserves" to be estranged from his children and grandchildren.

Culkin remembers Candy caring for him when not many others did. He wishes he had received more of that kind of support in his life and recognizes the importance of remembering Candy's kindness.