Where Are They Now? The Iconic National Lampoon Christmas Vacation Cast

Antone Johns 24 Jun 2025

For over three decades, one film has consistently graced our screens during the holiday season, becoming as essential to Christmas as twinkling lights and warm cocoa. We're talking, of course, about National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. This 1989 comedy film perfectly encapsulates the chaotic yet endearing spirit of a family Christmas, centered around Clark Griswold's relentless pursuit of the perfect holiday. From the moment audiences first encountered the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast in 1989, it was clear this was no ordinary festive flick. It was the third of five films released between 1983 and 2015, reuniting the beloved duo of Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo, who effortlessly brought the Griswold family's seasonal shenanigans to life.

The film, starring Chevy Chase as the perpetually optimistic but accident-prone Clark, Beverly D'Angelo as his long-suffering yet supportive wife Ellen, and Randy Quaid as the unforgettable Cousin Eddie, quickly cemented its place as a classic. It's Christmastime, and the Griswolds are preparing for a family seasonal celebration, but as anyone familiar with Clark knows, things never run smoothly. His continual bad luck is worsened by his obnoxious family guests, but he manages to keep going, knowing that his Christmas bonus is due soon. This article delves into the enduring legacy of this holiday gem and, more importantly, finds out what happened to the actors who played the Griswold family and their neighbors in the 1989 comedy classic. We'll learn about their careers, challenges, and achievements since the film, exploring where the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast ended up.

The Enduring Legacy of a Holiday Classic

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation instantly became a Christmas classic when it debuted over three decades ago. Its charm lies in its relatability; who hasn't experienced a holiday gathering that spiraled slightly out of control? The film brilliantly captures the universal anxieties and joys of the festive season, from untangling impossibly knotted lights to dealing with eccentric relatives. Released on Thursday, November 30, 1989, the movie quickly resonated with audiences, grossing over $71 million domestically and becoming a perennial favorite. AMC, for instance, airs National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation throughout December, regularly showing it alongside other holiday classics like Elf and Four Christmases as part of AMC's "Best. Christmas. Ever." programming. This consistent broadcasting has introduced the film to new generations, ensuring its place in the holiday canon. The film’s success is a testament not only to John Hughes’ witty screenplay and Jeremiah S. Chechik’s direction but also, crucially, to the impeccable chemistry and comedic timing of the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast. Their performances are what elevate the film from a simple comedy to a beloved cultural touchstone.

Clark Griswold: The Heart of Holiday Havoc (Chevy Chase)

Biography: Chevy Chase

Chevy Chase, born Cornelius Crane Chase on October 8, 1943, in New York City, is an American comedian, actor, and writer. He rose to prominence as an original cast member of NBC's first season of Saturday Night Live (SNL), where his deadpan humor and physical comedy quickly made him a household name. After SNL, Chevy had some major film successes, starting with 1978’s Foul Play, which earned him two Golden Globe nominations! He then became synonymous with the "Vacation" series, portraying Clark W. Griswold Jr., a walking disaster who has dragged his family through the horrors of traveling in two previous National Lampoon Vacation films before embarking on his most ambitious and chaotic holiday endeavor yet in Christmas Vacation. Clark’s relentless optimism in the face of escalating disasters is what makes his character so endearing and hilarious. Since Christmas Vacation, Chase has continued to act in various films and television shows, though his later career has been marked by a mix of roles, some more successful than others. He remains an iconic figure in comedy, forever linked to the Griswold patriarch.

Personal Data & Biodata: Chevy Chase

Category	Detail
Full Name	Cornelius Crane Chase
Born	October 8, 1943 (Age: 80 in 2023)
Birthplace	New York City, New York, USA
Notable Roles	Clark Griswold (National Lampoon's Vacation series), Fletch (Fletch), Ty Webb (Caddyshack), Pierce Hawthorne (Community)
Awards/Recognition	Emmy Awards (for SNL), Golden Globe nominations
Post-Christmas Vacation Career Highlights	Community (TV series), various film cameos, stand-up comedy tours.

Ellen Griswold: The Voice of Reason (Beverly D'Angelo)

Biography: Beverly D'Angelo

Beverly D'Angelo, born on November 15, 1951, in Columbus, Ohio, brought a much-needed grounding presence to the chaotic Griswold family as Ellen Griswold. Much like her onscreen husband, even Beverly D’Angelo made a name for herself with appearances in Annie Hall (1977), Coal Miner’s Daughter (1980), and Finders Keepers (1984), before joining the cast of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation as Ellen Griswold (via IMDb). Her portrayal of Ellen is nuanced; she's the long-suffering wife who often bears the brunt of Clark's schemes, yet she remains fiercely loyal and loving. Her exasperated sighs and knowing glances often speak volumes, providing a relatable counterpoint to Clark's unbridled enthusiasm. Since Christmas Vacation, D'Angelo has maintained a steady career in both film and television, showcasing her versatility in a range of roles. She has appeared in numerous independent films, guest-starred on popular TV shows, and even reprised her role as Ellen Griswold in subsequent "Vacation" installments, including a cameo in the 2015 film Vacation.

Personal Data & Biodata: Beverly D'Angelo

Category	Detail
Full Name	Beverly Heather D'Angelo
Born	November 15, 1951 (Age: 72 in 2023)
Birthplace	Columbus, Ohio, USA
Notable Roles	Ellen Griswold (National Lampoon's Vacation series), Patsy Cline (Coal Miner's Daughter), Doris Vinyard (American History X)
Awards/Recognition	Golden Globe nomination (Coal Miner's Daughter)
Post-Christmas Vacation Career Highlights	Entourage (TV series), Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (guest roles), various film appearances.

The Griswold Kids: Audrey and Rusty

One of the most notable aspects of the "Vacation" series is the revolving door of actors playing the Griswold children, Audrey and Rusty. For Christmas Vacation, the roles were filled by two young actors who would go on to have significant careers in Hollywood, making the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast a surprising launching pad for future stars.

Audrey Griswold: Juliette Lewis's Early Break

Juliette Lewis, born June 21, 1973, took on the role of the teenage Audrey Griswold, a character often exasperated by her family's antics. While her role in Christmas Vacation was a supporting one, it served as an early showcase for her talent. Just a few years later, Lewis would explode onto the scene with critically acclaimed performances in films like Martin Scorsese's Cape Fear (1991), which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She then went on to star in a string of memorable and often intense roles in the 1990s, including Natural Born Killers (1994) and From Dusk Till Dawn (1996). Lewis has also pursued a successful music career, fronting the rock band Juliette and the Licks. Her career since Christmas Vacation has been marked by fearless choices and a consistent presence in both independent and mainstream projects, proving her to be one of the most versatile members of the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast.

Personal Data & Biodata: Juliette Lewis

Category	Detail
Full Name	Juliette Lake Lewis
Born	June 21, 1973 (Age: 50 in 2023)
Birthplace	Los Angeles, California, USA
Notable Roles	Audrey Griswold (National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation), Danielle Bowden (Cape Fear), Mallory Knox (Natural Born Killers)
Awards/Recognition	Academy Award nomination (Cape Fear)
Post-Christmas Vacation Career Highlights	Extensive filmography, music career with Juliette and the Licks, TV series like Yellowjackets.

Rusty Griswold: Johnny Galecki's Pre-Big Bang Era

Johnny Galecki, born April 30, 1975, played Rusty Griswold, the son of Clark and Ellen. At the time of Christmas Vacation, Galecki was a young actor gaining experience. His portrayal of Rusty, often bewildered by his father's antics, was a charming part of the film's dynamic. While he had appeared in other projects before, it was his role as David Healy on the popular sitcom Roseanne that truly launched his career in the early 1990s. However, Galecki's biggest success came much later, when he landed the role of Leonard Hofstadter in the massively popular CBS sitcom The Big Bang Theory, which ran from 2007 to 2019. This role made him one of the highest-paid actors on television and a household name worldwide. His journey from a bewildered Griswold child to a beloved sitcom scientist is a remarkable trajectory for a member of the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast, showcasing his longevity and adaptability in the entertainment industry.

Personal Data & Biodata: Johnny Galecki

Category	Detail
Full Name	John Mark Galecki
Born	April 30, 1975 (Age: 48 in 2023)
Birthplace	Bree, Belgium (to American parents)
Notable Roles	Rusty Griswold (National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation), David Healy (Roseanne), Leonard Hofstadter (The Big Bang Theory)
Awards/Recognition	Emmy nomination (The Big Bang Theory)
Post-Christmas Vacation Career Highlights	Roseanne (TV series), The Big Bang Theory (TV series), various film roles.

Cousin Eddie Johnson: The Unforgettable Randy Quaid

Biography: Randy Quaid

Randy Quaid, born October 1, 1950, in Houston, Texas, delivered one of the most iconic and beloved performances in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation as Cousin Eddie Johnson. Eddie, with his disheveled appearance, questionable hygiene, and complete lack of social graces, is the quintessential unwelcome relative who overstays his welcome. Quaid's portrayal is a masterclass in comedic character acting, making Eddie both repulsive and strangely endearing. His lines, like "Shitter's full!", have become legendary and are instantly recognizable to fans of the film. Before Christmas Vacation, Quaid had already established himself as a talented and versatile actor, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Last Detail (1973). He also appeared in films like Midnight Express (1978) and Days of Thunder (1990). After Christmas Vacation, Quaid continued to work steadily in Hollywood, appearing in blockbusters like Independence Day (1996) and critically acclaimed films such as Brokeback Mountain (2005). However, his later career has been overshadowed by legal troubles and controversies, leading to a significant decline in his public appearances and acting roles. Despite his personal challenges, his indelible performance as Cousin Eddie ensures his place in cinematic history as a key member of the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast.

Personal Data & Biodata: Randy Quaid

Category	Detail
Full Name	Randall Rudy Quaid
Born	October 1, 1950 (Age: 73 in 2023)
Birthplace	Houston, Texas, USA
Notable Roles	Cousin Eddie Johnson (National Lampoon's Vacation series), Larry Meadows (The Last Detail), Russell Casse (Independence Day)
Awards/Recognition	Academy Award nomination (The Last Detail), Golden Globe (LBJ: The Early Years)
Post-Christmas Vacation Career Highlights	Independence Day (film), Brokeback Mountain (film), various TV and film roles before later career issues.

The Supporting Cast: More Than Just Background Characters

While the Griswold family forms the core of the film, the extended family and neighbors contribute significantly to the comedic chaos, making the entire National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast a delightful ensemble. Their reactions to Clark's misadventures, or their own unique quirks, add layers of humor and relatability to the holiday madness.

Aunt Bethany and Uncle Lewis

Perhaps the most memorable of the extended relatives are Aunt Bethany and Uncle Lewis, portrayed by Mae Questel and William Hickey, respectively. Mae Questel, famous as the voice of Betty Boop and Olive Oyl, delivered an unforgettable performance as the elderly, somewhat senile Aunt Bethany, who wraps a Jell-O mold and recites the Pledge of Allegiance instead of grace. Questel passed away in 1998, leaving behind a legacy as a voice actress and a beloved live-action character. William Hickey, a veteran character actor, played the cantankerous Uncle Lewis, known for his smoking and accidentally setting the Christmas tree on fire. Hickey continued to act in various films and TV shows until his passing in 1997. Their unique contributions are crucial to the film's enduring appeal, embodying the eccentricities that often surface during family gatherings.

The Neighbors: Todd and Margo Chester

The Griswolds' perpetually annoyed neighbors, Todd and Margo Chester, played by Nicholas Guest and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, provide a hilarious contrast to the Griswolds' boisterous holiday spirit. Their pristine, quiet lives are constantly disrupted by Clark's escalating Christmas decorations and the ensuing chaos. Julia Louis-Dreyfus, in particular, was on the cusp of superstardom with Seinfeld, which would premiere just a year after Christmas Vacation. Her role as Margo, while smaller, showcases her comedic timing and ability to deliver exasperated reactions perfectly. Nicholas Guest, also a prolific actor, has continued to work extensively in film and television, often in voice roles. Their dynamic with the Griswolds adds another layer of humor, highlighting the clash between suburban ideals and holiday reality.

Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Chaos

To truly appreciate the brilliance of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, it's worth noting the creative minds behind the camera. The film's plot, cast, production, and reception all contribute to its classic status. Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik and written by the legendary John Hughes, the movie benefits from a perfect storm of talent. Hughes, known for his ability to capture the essence of family dynamics and suburban life, crafted a script that was both hilarious and heartfelt. The production team faced the challenge of creating elaborate gags, from the infamous squirrel in the tree to the explosive sewer, all while maintaining a cohesive narrative. The meticulous planning and execution behind these scenes allowed the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast to shine, providing them with the perfect chaotic backdrop for their comedic performances. The film's success wasn't just accidental; it was the result of dedicated craftsmanship that understood the fine line between festive cheer and utter pandemonium.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation Cast: Then and Now

It has been over 30 years since the Griswold family invited audiences to celebrate the holidays in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Lots can change in 30 years, including lives and careers. From the seasoned comedic genius of Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo to the budding talents of Juliette Lewis and Johnny Galecki, the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast left an indelible mark on cinematic history. Find out what happened to the actors who played the Griswold family and their neighbors in the 1989 comedy classic, learn about their careers, challenges, and achievements since the film. While some, like Johnny Galecki, went on to achieve even greater mainstream success in television, others, like Juliette Lewis, carved out niche careers in critically acclaimed films. Randy Quaid's journey took a more tumultuous path, but his iconic character lives on. Even the supporting players, like Mae Questel and William Hickey, left a lasting impression, proving that there are no small parts in a truly great ensemble. As National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation turns 35, it's clear that the film's charm is timeless, and the performances of its talented cast are a major reason why it continues to be a cherished part of holiday traditions for millions around the world. See what the stars of the 1989 movie 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation' — including Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo and Johnny Galecki — are up to now, and appreciate the enduring legacy of this beloved holiday classic.

The magic of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation lies not just in its slapstick humor or its relatable portrayal of holiday stress, but in the unforgettable characters brought to life by its remarkable cast. Each member, from the leading Griswolds to the eccentric relatives and exasperated neighbors, contributed to the film's unique charm and lasting appeal. Their collective talent turned a simple story of a disastrous family Christmas into a beloved cinematic tradition that continues to entertain and resonate with audiences year after year. The longevity of this film is a testament to the enduring power of a well-told story and the brilliant performances of the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation cast.

What are your favorite moments from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation? Which cast member's journey surprised you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don't forget to share this article with fellow fans of this holiday masterpiece!

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