It’s been 35 years since National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation first lit up our screens, and it’s safe to say the Griswold family has become a cornerstone of holiday traditions. Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik and written and co-produced by the legendary John Hughes, the film stars Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, and Randy Quaid in iconic roles.
Based on Hughes’s short story Christmas ’59, published in National Lampoon magazine, the movie hilariously chronicles Clark Griswold’s relentless quest to create the perfect family Christmas. As events spiral out of control, from over-the-top decorations to uninvited extended family antics, Clark’s determination only amplifies the chaos, delivering timeless laughs and heartfelt moments.
While the film was shot in Summit County, Colorado, including Silverthorne, Breckenridge, Frisco, and Burbank, between March and June 1989, it is set in Chicago and has a Chicago vibe.
So it’s only fitting that we take a look at where the cast of this Chicago Christmas classic is now:
Chevy Chase (Clark Griswold)
The ever-optimistic patriarch Clark Griswold is undoubtedly one of Chevy Chase’s most iconic roles. Following Christmas Vacation, Chase reprised the role of Clark in Vegas Vacation (1997) and continued his comedy career with films like Man of the House and Hot Tub Time Machine.
In recent years, he starred as Pierce Hawthorne on the cult-favorite series Community, though his time on the show was fraught with behind-the-scenes drama. Now in his late 70s, Chase occasionally pops up in cameos and continues to be a beloved figure in Hollywood.
Beverly D’Angelo (Ellen Griswold)
As the level-headed Ellen Griswold, Beverly D’Angelo balanced Clark’s manic energy with grace and humor. Post-Christmas Vacation, D’Angelo appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including American History X and Entourage, where she played agent Barbara “Babs” Miller.
Most recently, she starred in Violent Night (2022), proving her holiday credentials remain strong.
Juliette Lewis (Audrey Griswold)
Juliette Lewis played the rebellious teenager Audrey, who later became a force in Hollywood. Known for her roles in Natural Born Killers, Cape Fear (which earned her an Oscar nomination), and Kalifornia, Lewis has also pursued a successful music career with her band, Juliette and the Licks.
Today, she continues to act, appearing in projects like Yellowjackets and Ma.
Johnny Galecki (Rusty Griswold)
Johnny Galecki played the youngest Griswold in Christmas Vacation, but his career skyrocketed decades later when he landed the role of Leonard Hofstadter in The Big Bang Theory.
The show made Galecki one of the highest-paid actors on television. Now a household name, Galecki has taken a step back from acting since The Big Bang Theory ended but remains active as a producer.
Randy Quaid (Cousin Eddie Johnson)
Randy Quaid’s scene-stealing turn as Cousin Eddie is the stuff of comedy legend. Unfortunately, Quaid’s life took a turn for the bizarre in recent years, with legal troubles and conspiracy-fueled controversies dominating headlines.
Despite these challenges, his portrayal of Eddie remains a highlight of his career, and fans continue to celebrate his unforgettable performance.
John Randolph (Clark’s Father, Clark Sr.)
John Randolph brought warmth and wit to the role of Clark’s supportive father, Clark Sr. A veteran character actor, Randolph had a storied career on stage and screen, with notable appearances in films like Serpico and Prizzi’s Honor and TV shows like Family Ties. Before his Hollywood success, Randolph was a Tony Award-winning actor with a deep love for theater.
Despite being blacklisted during the McCarthy era, he persevered and left an indelible mark on the industry. Randolph continued to act well into his later years, with his role in Christmas Vacation showcasing his charm and comedic timing. He passed away in 2004 at the age of 88, but his legacy endures in this holiday classic.
Diane Ladd (Nora Griswold)
Diane Ladd, who played Clark’s sweet mother Nora, was already an established actress before joining the Griswold clan. Post-Christmas Vacation, she earned an Oscar nomination for Rambling Rose and appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including Chesapeake Shores.
Doris Roberts (Francis Smith)
The late Doris Roberts, who played Ellen’s sharp-tongued mother Francis, is perhaps best known for her role as Marie Barone on Everybody Loves Raymond. Her work on the sitcom earned her multiple Emmy Awards. Roberts passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of comedic brilliance.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Margo Chester)
An SNL alum like Chevy Chase, Julia Louis-Dreyfus played Margo Chester, one-half of the snooty, yuppie neighbors who get caught in the Griswold chaos. She went on to become one of the most celebrated comedic actresses in history, winning numerous Emmys for her roles in Seinfeld, The New Adventures of Old Christine, and Veep. She will next be seen in Marvel’s Thunderbolts* in 2025.
Louis-Dreyfus remains a powerhouse in Hollywood and a vocal advocate for environmental and political causes.
Nicholas Guest (Todd Chester)
Nicholas Guest, who portrayed Margo’s equally smug husband Todd, has built a steady career as a character actor and voice artist. He’s appeared in shows like Mad Men and Parks and Recreation and lent his voice to video games such as The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Guest continues to work behind the scenes in the industry as well.
Nicolette Scorsese (Mary, The Lingerie Clerk)
Nicolette Scorsese became a fan favorite as Mary, the lingerie counter clerk who caught Clark’s eye. While her role in Christmas Vacation remains her most notable, she appeared in films like Boxing Helena and Aspen Extreme before stepping away from acting in the late ’90s.
William Hickey (Uncle Lewis)
The irascible Uncle Lewis was played by William Hickey, a veteran character actor known for his distinctive voice and memorable roles in films like Prizzi’s Honor (for which he received an Oscar nomination). Hickey continued to act until his death in 1997.
Mae Questel (Aunt Bethany)
Mae Questel, who played the adorably quirky Aunt Bethany, was a Hollywood legend long before Christmas Vacation. As the voice of Betty Boop and Olive Oyl, she brought iconic characters to life. Christmas Vacation was her final role before she passed away in 1998.
Miriam Flynn (Cousin Catherine Johnson)
Miriam Flynn, who played Eddie’s devoted wife Catherine, continued to act in television and film, including voicing Grandma Longneck in The Land Before Time franchise. She remains active in Hollywood, often taking on guest roles in TV series.
Christmas Vacation marks the last film in the Vacation series to involve Hughes and carry the National Lampoon branding, solidifying its place as a pivotal entry in both the franchise and Chicago film canon.
As we gather around our TVs to watch National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation once again, it’s a joy to revisit the hilarious and heartwarming performances that made this film a classic. The cast may have moved on to new adventures, but their work continues to bring holiday cheer to millions every year.
Happy holidays—and remember, it’s all part of the Griswold family Christmas! 🎄
