>>149862881
Varney had an interesting relationship with Ernest; of course he did like the character and performing as him, but he did want to do more, particularly more dramatic roles
Hollywood is what it is so that didn't always happen
One of his last roles, released after he passed away, was a more dramatic role in "Daddy and Them"
https://youtu.be/oJDy-3XXuvk
If Varney hadn't died so young, it's probable he would have done more dramatic roles (while still probably doing Ernest stuff), I'm curious if he would have been more like Robin Williams or Tom Hanks though
That Family Guy joke early on where Peter laughs at Philadelphia because Tom Hanks is in it, there was that period where Hanks was more known for comedy roles like Big or Bosom Buddies, but after that it was much more dramatic heavy. Perhaps too much