National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a beloved holiday classic that has been a staple in many households since its release in 1989. Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik and written by John Hughes, the film follows the Griswold family, led by the ever-optimistic Clark Griswold, as they attempt to have the perfect Christmas. The movie is filled with hilarious mishaps and heartwarming moments, making it a timeless favorite. It was a box office success and has since become a cultural touchstone, often cited as one of the best Christmas movies of all time.
Chevy Chase, who played the bumbling yet endearing Clark Griswold, continued to have a prolific career in comedy. After reprising his role in “Vegas Vacation” (1997), Chase appeared in films like “Man of the House” and “Hot Tub Time Machine.” He also starred in the TV series “Community” as Pierce Hawthorne, though his time on the show was marked by behind-the-scenes drama. He also starred in and Zombie Town in 2023. Now in his late 70s, Chase occasionally makes cameo appearances and remains a beloved figure in Hollywood.
Beverly D’Angelo, who portrayed Clark’s patient wife Ellen Griswold, has had a diverse career in film and television. She appeared in notable films such as “American History X” and had a recurring role in the TV series “Entourage.” More recently, D’Angelo starred in the holiday-themed film “Violent Night” (2022), proving her enduring appeal in the genre. From 1997 to 2003, D’Angelo was in a relationship with Al Pacino, with whom she has twin children.
Juliette Lewis, who played the Griswold’s teenage daughter Audrey, went on to become a prominent actress and musician. Known for her roles in “Natural Born Killers” and “Cape Fear,” Lewis also pursued a successful music career with her band, Juliette and the Licks. She continues to act, with recent appearances in the TV series “Yellowjackets” and the film “Ma”. She also appeared on other small screen projects and earned Emmy nominations for Hysterical Blindness in 2003 and Welcome to Chippendales in 2023.
Johnny Galecki, who played the youngest Griswold, Rusty, found immense success later in his career with the role of Leonard Hofstadter in the hit TV series “The Big Bang Theory.” The show made Galecki one of the highest-paid actors on television. Since the series ended, he has taken a step back from acting but remains active as a producer.
Randy Quaid, who played the eccentric Cousin Eddie, has had a tumultuous career and personal life. After “Christmas Vacation,” Quaid appeared in films like “Independence Day” and “Kingpin.” However, his later years have been marked by legal troubles and controversial public statements. He has largely stayed out of the public eye in recent years.
Miriam Flynn, who played Cousin Catherine, continued to work in television and film, often lending her voice to animated projects. She has appeared in shows like “The Middle” and provided voices for characters in “The Land Before Time” series. In later years, she booked roles in episodes of Bones, Scandal, Shrinking, and The Lincoln Lawyer.
Diane Ladd, who played Clark’s mother, Nora Griswold, has had a long and distinguished career in Hollywood. She has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including “Chinatown” and “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,” for which she received an Academy Award nomination. Ladd continues to act, with recent roles in the TV series “Chesapeake Shores”. She teamed up with her daughter on the HBO series Enlightened, and then again for their 2023 joint memoir, Honey, Baby, Mine: A Mother and Daughter Talk Life, Death, Love (and Banana Pudding) — and has appeared in such films as Joy (2015) and Gigi & Nate (2022).
John Randolph, who played Clark’s father, Clark Sr., had a prolific career in film and television before his passing in 2004. He appeared in films like “Serpico” and “Prizzi’s Honor” and was a respected character actor.
E.G. Marshall, who played Ellen’s father, Art, was a veteran actor known for his roles in “12 Angry Men” and “The Defenders.” He continued to work in film and television until his death in 1998.
Doris Roberts, who played Ellen’s mother, Frances, became widely known for her role as Marie Barone on the TV series “Everybody Loves Raymond.” She continued to act until her passing in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.
William Hickey, who played the cantankerous Uncle Lewis, was an acclaimed character actor known for his distinctive voice and roles in films like “Prizzi’s Honor” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” He passed away in 1997.
Mae Questel, who played Aunt Bethany, was best known as the voice of Betty Boop and Olive Oyl in the Popeye cartoons. “Christmas Vacation” was one of her final film roles before her death in 1998.
Last but certainly not least, Ellen Hamilton Latzen who played Ruby Sue. In her short-lived run as a child star, Latzen was just 9 years old when National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation arrived in theaters. She played the daughter of Catherine and Eddie. She began her career in 1987’s Fatal Attraction, showing up in a 1987 episode of Family Ties and a 1989 episode of The Equalizer, and appearing in 1988’s Mr. North. After National Lampoons her acting career ended. Latzen and her husband married in 2022 and they share one daughter.
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