The legendary comedian and counterculture icon, Tomy Chong, continues to defy expectations and remain incredibly active in his 80s. As of late 2025, the star of the iconic "Cheech & Chong" duo is not slowing down, with a flurry of public appearances, a major career achievement award, and a highly-anticipated "final" film project dominating the headlines. This article dives into the freshest, most current details on his life, career, and enduring influence, proving that the man who helped define an era is still lighting up the entertainment world.

The year 2025 has been pivotal for Chong, marking not just a continuation of his comedy legacy but also a renewed focus on his role as a health advocate and cultural commentator. From the red carpet to the debate stage, he and his partner, Cheech Marin, are proving their cultural relevance is timeless, cementing their status as true pioneers of comedy and cannabis culture.

Tomy Chong: A Comprehensive Biographical Profile

Tomy Chong, born Thomas B. Kin Chong, is a Canadian-American comedian, actor, writer, director, musician, and cannabis rights activist. His career spans over six decades, making him one of the most recognizable figures in comedy history. His unique blend of humor, music, and social commentary has left an indelible mark on pop culture.

• Full Name: Thomas B. Kin Chong
• Date of Birth: May 24, 1938
• Age (as of December 2025): 87
• Place of Birth: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
• Nationality: Canadian-American
• Spouse: Shelby Chong (m. 1975)
• Previous Spouse: Maxine Sneed (m. 1960; div. 1970)
• Children: Rae Dawn Chong, Robbi Chong, Paris Chong, Precious Chong, Gilbran Chong
• Occupation: Comedian, Actor, Writer, Director, Musician, Activist
• Known For: Half of the comedy duo Cheech & Chong; roles in films like Up in Smoke, Nice Dreams, and Still Smokin'; the character Leo on That '70s Show and That '90s Show.
• Musical Career: Was a member of the soul group Bobby Taylor & the Vancouvers, co-writing their 1968 hit "Does Your Mama Know About Me."
• Legal Issues: Served nine months in federal prison in 2003 for financing and promoting his son's company, Nice Dreams Enterprises, which sold drug paraphernalia.
• Health Battles: A two-time cancer survivor, having successfully battled prostate cancer and rectal cancer.

The Cheech & Chong Renaissance: New Projects and Major Awards

The enduring partnership between Tomy Chong and Cheech Marin has seen a massive resurgence in 2025, proving their comedy is as relevant today as it was in the 1970s. Their recent activities highlight their status as pioneers and cultural touchstones.

1. "Cheech & Chong's Last Movie" Dominates 2025 Buzz

The biggest news surrounding the duo is the release and digital streaming of their new documentary/film, Cheech & Chong's Last Movie. This project has generated significant buzz, with trailers circulating and a digital streaming date announced, making it a must-watch for fans new and old. The film is touted as a deep dive into the duo's enduring legacy, featuring interviews, sketches, and never-before-seen footage spanning their five-decade career. While the title suggests a final bow, the film serves as a powerful retrospective, tracing the journey of two pioneering comics who changed the landscape of American comedy and drug culture commentary. The project is a testament to the cultural impact of Cheech and Chong, securing their place in comedy history.

2. Career Achievement Award at CinemaCon

In a major professional milestone, Cheech Marin and Tomy Chong were honored with the prestigious CinemaCon Career Achievement in Comedy award in April 2025. This award recognizes their monumental contribution to the film industry and their ability to consistently bring laughter to audiences across generations. The recognition highlights how their stoner comedy, once considered niche, has become a mainstream, celebrated genre, influencing countless comedians and filmmakers who followed.

3. High-Profile Media Appearances in 2025

Chong and Marin have been highly visible in 2025, engaging with audiences on various platforms. They appeared as guests on HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher in May 2025, offering their unique perspectives on current events and, undoubtedly, the shifting political and cultural landscape surrounding cannabis. Furthermore, they were confirmed to be lighting up Comicpalooza 2025, an appearance that thrilled fans and showed their continued commitment to the convention circuit. These appearances underscore their role as not just comedians, but as cultural commentators whose voices remain relevant.

Tomy Chong's Enduring Advocacy and Health Journey

Beyond the world of comedy and film, Tomy Chong has become a powerful advocate for cannabis legalization and an open book about his personal health battles, using his platform to promote awareness and destigmatize the use of natural remedies.

4. A Key Figure at the 420 Festival

Tomy Chong's presence at major cannabis-related events in 2025 confirms his status as a living legend of the culture. He appeared at the massive 420 festival held at Civic Center Park in Denver in April 2025, where thousands gathered to celebrate marijuana culture. His attendance at such high-profile events is a powerful symbol of the progress made in cannabis legalization and a nod to his decades of activism. His business interests, including his own line of CBD and cannabis products, are also thriving, reflecting the actor's discussion on the increasing demand for CBD and marijuana products.

5. Openness About Cancer and Cannabis Treatment

Chong is a two-time cancer survivor, having been diagnosed with prostate cancer and later rectal cancer. His journey has been public, and he has been vocal about using cannabis as part of his holistic treatment and for relief. He underwent surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy to treat his prostate cancer, and he openly discussed his colorectal cancer, colostomy, and the medical team at UCLA who removed the tumor. He famously vowed to keep fans updated on his cancer fight via his podcast, The Chong and Chong Show, and encouraged well-wishes as he continued to "kick cancer's butt". His transparency has made him an inspirational figure for many, showing that a positive attitude and the right treatments can lead to recovery.

6. Championing Men's Health Awareness

Leveraging his personal health battles, Tomy Chong has partnered with organizations like Movember to raise much-needed funds and awareness for men's mental health. His involvement highlights the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, especially for men navigating serious health issues like cancer. By sharing his story, he encourages other men to seek help and be open about their struggles, adding a layer of serious advocacy to his comedic legacy.

7. The Enduring Legacy of Leo on Television

While his focus in 2025 is on the Last Movie and live appearances, Chong’s recent return to television as the beloved character Leo on Netflix's That '90s Show (a spin-off of That '70s Show) further cemented his intergenerational appeal. The character of Leo, the perpetually spaced-out but lovable photo-store owner, remains a fan favorite and introduces Chong’s unique comedic timing to a new generation of viewers. This role ensures his humor and persona continue to resonate with younger audiences, keeping the Cheech & Chong spirit alive and well.

In conclusion, Tomy Chong's activities in 2025 demonstrate that his career is far from over. From receiving a major career award and releasing what could be his final film to his unwavering advocacy for cannabis and men's health, he remains a vital, influential, and unstoppable force in pop culture. His journey is a powerful reminder that laughter, resilience, and a little bit of green can keep the spirit young, no matter the age.