The Enduring Legacy Of The Cast Of Christmas Vacation

09 Jul, 2025

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation has cemented its place as a quintessential holiday classic, a film that families return to year after year for its unique blend of heartwarming chaos and side-splitting humor. This year, as National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation turns 35 years old, audiences are once again eager to revisit the Griswold family's disastrous yet delightful holiday escapades. But beyond the memorable scenes and quotable lines, it's the brilliant ensemble cast of Christmas Vacation that truly brings this festive frenzy to life, making it an indelible part of our holiday traditions.

From Chevy Chase's perpetually optimistic Clark W. Griswold to Randy Quaid's unforgettable Cousin Eddie, each actor delivered a performance that resonated deeply with viewers, capturing the universal stresses and joys of family gatherings. As we prepare to watch the National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation cast do its thing once more, it's a perfect time to catch up with what has gone on with Chevy, Beverly, Johnny, and Juliette, and indeed, the entire talented group who made this movie a timeless gem. What is the cast of Christmas Vacation up to 35 years after its 1989 release? Let's check out their career highlights and personal milestones.

A Holiday Tradition: The Enduring Appeal of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
The Griswold Patriarch: Chevy Chase as Clark W. Griswold
The Resilient Matriarch: Beverly D'Angelo as Ellen Griswold
The Griswold Kids: Juliette Lewis and Johnny Galecki
- Juliette Lewis as Audrey Griswold
- Johnny Galecki as Russell "Rusty" Griswold
The Unforgettable Relatives: Randy Quaid and Nicolette Scorsese
- Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie Johnson
- Nicolette Scorsese as Mary
Supporting Stars Who Shined Bright
The Enduring Legacy and "Then & Now" of the Cast of Christmas Vacation
Conclusion

A Holiday Tradition: The Enduring Appeal of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Some Christmas movies touch the heart (it’s a Wonderful Life), provide family laughs with nostalgic memories (Miracle on 34th Street, A Christmas Story), or just cause you to burst out in laughter at the insanity. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation firmly belongs in the latter category, yet it manages to capture the true spirit of the holidays amidst its chaotic humor. Released in 1989, it quickly became a beloved classic, standing out as the third of five films in the National Lampoon's Vacation series released between 1983 and 2015. It reunites Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo as the iconic Griswold parents, Clark and Ellen, as they navigate the perils of hosting a large family Christmas.

The film’s genius lies in its relatability. Who hasn't experienced the stress of tangled Christmas lights, unexpected relatives, or disastrous holiday meals? The Griswold family's plans for a big family Christmas go awry in spectacular fashion, providing endless laughs and a comforting sense that our own holiday mishaps are perfectly normal. This universal appeal ensures that the cast of Christmas Vacation remains relevant and cherished by new generations every year. It has been 30 years since the Griswold family invited audiences to celebrate the holidays in 'National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.' See the cast, then and now, as this holiday staple continues to air on TV channels and streaming services just in time for the holiday this year.

The Griswold Patriarch: Chevy Chase as Clark W. Griswold

Chevy Chase's portrayal of Clark W. Griswold is arguably one of his most iconic roles, embodying the well-meaning but perpetually unlucky family man. Clark's relentless pursuit of the "perfect Christmas" leads to a series of escalating disasters, yet his unwavering optimism and love for his family shine through, making him an endearing figure despite his flaws. Before you watch the National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation cast do its thing, it's worth catching up with Chevy Chase.

Biography: Chevy Chase

Cornelius Crane "Chevy" Chase was born on October 8, 1943, in New York City. He rose to fame as an original cast member of NBC's Saturday Night Live (SNL), where his deadpan humor and physical comedy quickly made him a breakout star. After leaving SNL, Chase embarked on a successful film career, starring in comedies like "Caddyshack" (1980), "Fletch" (1985), and the "National Lampoon's Vacation" series, beginning with "National Lampoon's Vacation" in 1983. His performance in "Christmas Vacation" solidified his status as a comedic legend.

Personal Data/Biodata	Details
Full Name	Cornelius Crane Chase
Born	October 8, 1943 (age 80 in 2024)
Birthplace	New York City, U.S.
Occupation	Actor, Comedian, Writer
Known For	Saturday Night Live, National Lampoon's Vacation series, Caddyshack, Fletch
Spouse(s)	Suzanne Chase (m. 1973; div. 1976), Jacqueline Carlin (m. 1976; div. 1980), Jayni Chase (m. 1982)

Since his role as Clark, Chase has continued to act in various films and television shows, though perhaps none have reached the iconic status of his earlier works. He had a notable role in the sitcom "Community" from 2009 to 2012. Despite occasional health issues and public controversies, Chase remains a recognizable figure in comedy, often making appearances and reflecting on his storied career. Find out what the cast of Christmas Vacation is up to in 2024, 35 years after the movie was released, and Chevy Chase continues to be a prominent name.

The Resilient Matriarch: Beverly D'Angelo as Ellen Griswold

Beverly D'Angelo's Ellen Griswold serves as the grounded, often exasperated, but always loving counterpart to Clark. Her quiet strength and ability to maintain composure amidst the family's escalating chaos make her the perfect foil for Clark's over-the-top antics. She is the anchor of the Griswold family, often providing the voice of reason and the emotional core of the film.

Biography: Beverly D'Angelo

Beverly Heather D'Angelo was born on August 19, 1951, in Columbus, Ohio. Her career began in the late 1970s, and she quickly established herself as a versatile actress. Before "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation," she gained recognition for her roles in films like "Hair" (1979) and "Coal Miner's Daughter" (1980), for which she received a Golden Globe nomination. Her chemistry with Chevy Chase in the "Vacation" series is a cornerstone of its success, with their on-screen relationship feeling genuinely authentic.

Personal Data/Biodata	Details
Full Name	Beverly Heather D'Angelo
Born	August 19, 1951 (age 73 in 2024)
Birthplace	Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
Occupation	Actress, Singer
Known For	National Lampoon's Vacation series, Hair, Coal Miner's Daughter
Partner(s)	Anton Furst (1981–1988), Al Pacino (1997–2003)

D'Angelo has had a consistent career in both film and television since her "Christmas Vacation" days. She reprised her role as Ellen Griswold in subsequent "Vacation" films, including "Vegas Vacation" (1997) and a cameo in the 2015 reboot "Vacation." She has also appeared in TV series like "Entourage" and "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," showcasing her range beyond comedy. See Chevy Chase & more 33 years later; 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation' is a holiday staple every single year, and D'Angelo's performance is a huge part of that.

The Griswold Kids: Juliette Lewis and Johnny Galecki

The ever-changing Griswold children, Audrey and Rusty, are a running gag throughout the "Vacation" series. In "Christmas Vacation," they are portrayed by two actors who would go on to have significant careers: Juliette Lewis and Johnny Galecki. Their performances as the long-suffering siblings add another layer of relatable humor to the family dynamic.

Juliette Lewis as Audrey Griswold

Juliette Lewis, as the teenage Audrey, perfectly captures the angst and exasperation of a daughter forced to endure her family's holiday madness. Her deadpan reactions to Clark's escalating failures are priceless, making Audrey a fan favorite.

Biography: Juliette Lewis

Juliette Lake Lewis was born on June 21, 1973, in Los Angeles, California. Her role in "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" was an early stepping stone in a career that would see her become a critically acclaimed actress. She quickly transitioned from teen roles to more dramatic and intense characters, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her work in "Cape Fear" (1991). Her filmography includes a diverse range of genres, from thrillers like "Natural Born Killers" (1994) to comedies and independent films.

Personal Data/Biodata	Details
Full Name	Juliette Lake Lewis
Born	June 21, 1973 (age 51 in 2024)
Birthplace	Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Occupation	Actress, Singer
Known For	Cape Fear, Natural Born Killers, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, Yellowjackets
Spouse(s)	Paul Haslinger (m. 1999; div. 2003)

Beyond acting, Lewis is also a talented musician, fronting the band Juliette and the Licks. She has maintained a strong presence in Hollywood, with recent notable roles in television series such as "Yellowjackets," proving her enduring versatility and talent. The cast of Christmas Vacation saw many go on to significant careers, and Lewis is a prime example.

Johnny Galecki as Russell "Rusty" Griswold

Johnny Galecki's portrayal of Rusty, the younger Griswold sibling, is subtle but effective. He often serves as the quiet observer of the family's madness, offering deadpan remarks or simply enduring the chaos with a resigned expression. This performance hinted at the comedic timing that would later make him a household name.

Biography: Johnny Galecki

John Mark Galecki was born on April 30, 1975, in Bree, Belgium, to American parents. He began his acting career at a young age, appearing in films and television shows before his breakout role in "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation." While Rusty was a relatively small role, it put him on the map. His career truly soared with his role as David Healy in the popular sitcom "Roseanne" (1992–1997; 2018) and, most notably, as Leonard Hofstadter in the massively successful "The Big Bang Theory" (2007–2019).

Personal Data/Biodata	Details
Full Name	John Mark Galecki
Born	April 30, 1975 (age 49 in 2024)
Birthplace	Bree, Belgium
Occupation	Actor
Known For	The Big Bang Theory, Roseanne, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
Partner(s)	Alaina Meyer (2018–2020)

Galecki's success on "The Big Bang Theory" made him one of the highest-paid actors on television. Since the show concluded, he has taken on fewer roles, focusing on personal life and other ventures. His journey from a young actor in the cast of Christmas Vacation to a global sitcom star is a testament to his talent and enduring appeal. Before you watch the National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation cast do its thing, catch up with what has gone on with Johnny.

The Unforgettable Relatives: Randy Quaid and Nicolette Scorsese

No Christmas gathering is complete without eccentric relatives, and "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" delivers in spades with Cousin Eddie and his family. These characters, brought to life by Randy Quaid and Nicolette Scorsese, provide some of the film's most memorable and outrageous moments.

Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie Johnson

Randy Quaid's portrayal of Cousin Eddie Johnson is legendary. Eddie, the uninvited, slovenly, but ultimately good-hearted relative, is the source of much of the film's most outrageous humor, from his RV parked outside to his infamous sewer dump. His character has become synonymous with the film itself.

Biography: Randy Quaid

Randall Rudy Quaid was born on October 1, 1950, in Houston, Texas. A versatile actor, Quaid had already established a significant career before "Christmas Vacation," earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for "The Last Detail" (1973). He appeared in numerous films throughout the 1970s and 80s, including "Midnight Express" (1978) and "National Lampoon's Vacation" (1983), where he first introduced Cousin Eddie. His return as Eddie in "Christmas Vacation" cemented the character's iconic status.

Personal Data/Biodata	Details
Full Name	Randall Rudy Quaid
Born	October 1, 1950 (age 74 in 2024)
Birthplace	Houston, Texas, U.S.
Occupation	Actor
Known For	National Lampoon's Vacation series (Cousin Eddie), The Last Detail, Independence Day
Spouse(s)	Ella Quaid (m. 1980; div. 1989), Evi Quaid (m. 1989)

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