Cast Of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation: A Festive Look At The Beloved Movie

Charley Swaniawski 11 May 2025

It’s that time of year again when everyone pulls out their favorite holiday movies, and "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation" always tops the list. This classic film, released in 1989, has become a staple in many households during the festive season. But have you ever wondered about the talented cast behind this chaotic yet heartwarming holiday chaos? We’re diving deep into the lives of the actors who brought the Griswolds to life.

From Chevy Chase’s unforgettable portrayal of Clark Griswold to the rest of the family members, this film is more than just a comedy—it’s a cultural phenomenon. The cast of "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation" delivered performances that resonate with audiences even today. So, buckle up as we explore the magic of this holiday classic.

But first, let’s set the scene. This movie isn’t just about over-the-top holiday decorations and Cousin Eddie’s RV. It’s about family, tradition, and sometimes, the chaos that comes with it. Now, let’s get into the details of the cast who made it all happen.

Biography of the Cast Members

Before we dive into the specifics of each cast member, it’s essential to understand their background and how they became part of this iconic film. Below is a quick overview of the main actors involved in the production of "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation."

Name	Character	Age at Release	Notable Works
Chevy Chase	Clark Griswold	46	"Caddyshack," "Fletch," "Three Amigos"
Beverly D’Angelo	Ellen Griswold	40	"Grease," "Coyote Ugly," "Crossroads"
Juliette Lewis	Audrey Griswold	16	"Cape Fear," "What’s Eating Gilbert Grape," "Kalifornia"
Johnny Galecki	Russ Griswold	17	"Roseanne," "The Big Bang Theory," "According to Jim"
Steve Forrest	Clayton Griswold	63	"Santa Claus: The Movie," "The Long, Hot Summer"

Who is Chevy Chase? The Man Behind Clark Griswold

Chevy Chase, born Leslie Hallenbeck, is an American actor, comedian, and writer. He’s best known for his work on "Saturday Night Live," where he became a household name. Chase’s portrayal of Clark Griswold in "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation" solidified his status as a comedic legend. His ability to blend slapstick humor with heartfelt moments made him the perfect choice for this role.

Chevy Chase’s Career Highlights

Here are some of the key highlights from Chevy Chase’s illustrious career:

Starred in "Caddyshack," one of the most iconic sports comedies of all time.
Created the "Weekend Update" segment on "Saturday Night Live," which became a staple of the show.
Hosted numerous award shows, including the Emmy Awards and the Golden Globes.
Continued to work in film and television, appearing in shows like "Community" and "30 Rock."

Beverly D’Angelo: The Heart of the Griswold Family

Beverly D’Angelo, who played Ellen Griswold, brought a level of sophistication and charm to the film. Known for her roles in musicals like "Grease" and dramatic films like "Coyote Ugly," D’Angelo’s versatility as an actress shines through in her performance as the long-suffering wife of Clark Griswold.

Beverly D’Angelo’s Journey in Hollywood

Before "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation," D’Angelo had already made a name for herself in the industry. Here’s a glimpse into her career:

Started her career in theater, performing in Broadway shows.
Broke into film with roles in "Grease" and "The Love Boat."
Continued to work in both film and television, appearing in "Crossroads" and "ER."

Juliette Lewis: The Young Audrey Griswold

Juliette Lewis, who played Audrey Griswold, was just 16 years old when she starred in "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation." Her performance as the rebellious teenager added a layer of authenticity to the film. Lewis has since gone on to have a successful career in film and television.

Juliette Lewis’s Rise to Fame

Here’s a look at some of Juliette Lewis’s notable achievements:

Starred in Martin Scorsese’s "Cape Fear" at the age of 18.
Received critical acclaim for her role in "What’s Eating Gilbert Grape."
Continued to work in film and television, appearing in shows like "Hemlock Grove" and "The Path."

Johnny Galecki: The Teenage Russ Griswold

Johnny Galecki, who played Russ Griswold, was already a familiar face on television before "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation." His role in "Roseanne" had made him a household name, and his performance as the awkward teenager in this film only added to his appeal.

Johnny Galecki’s Career Evolution

Galecki’s career has been nothing short of impressive. Here’s a snapshot of his journey:

Became a household name as DJ Conway on "Roseanne."
Starred in "The Big Bang Theory," one of the most successful sitcoms of all time.
Continued to work in film and television, appearing in shows like "According to Jim."

Steve Forrest: The Patriarch Clayton Griswold

Steve Forrest, who played Clayton Griswold, brought a level of gravitas to the film. Known for his work in television and film, Forrest’s performance as the stern grandfather added depth to the Griswold family dynamic.

Steve Forrest’s Legacy

Here’s a look at some of Steve Forrest’s notable works:

Starred in "Santa Claus: The Movie," a holiday classic in its own right.
Appeared in numerous television shows, including "The Virginian" and "Bonanza."
Continued to work in film and television until his passing in 2015.

Behind the Scenes of "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation"

Creating a film as iconic as "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation" wasn’t without its challenges. From logistical nightmares to on-set mishaps, the production team faced numerous obstacles. However, the final product is a testament to their dedication and creativity.

Fun Facts About the Film

Here are some interesting tidbits about the making of "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation":

The famous Christmas lights scene was inspired by director John Hughes’ own childhood experiences.
Cousin Eddie’s RV was a real RV, and the actors had to deal with its quirks during filming.
The film was shot in just 35 days, which is incredibly fast for a production of its size.

The Impact of "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation" on Pop Culture

This film has left an indelible mark on pop culture, influencing countless holiday movies and TV specials. Its themes of family, tradition, and the chaos of the holiday season resonate with audiences worldwide. The cast of "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation" played a crucial role in making this film the classic it is today.

Why This Movie Matters

Here’s why "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation" continues to be relevant:

It captures the essence of the holiday season in all its messy glory.
The characters are relatable, flawed, and endearing, making them unforgettable.
The film’s humor is timeless, appealing to audiences of all ages.

Conclusion: Celebrating the Cast of "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation"

In conclusion, the cast of "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation" deserves all the credit for making this film a holiday classic. From Chevy Chase’s hilarious portrayal of Clark Griswold to Beverly D’Angelo’s heartfelt performance as Ellen, each actor brought something unique to the table. As we continue to watch this film year after year, let’s take a moment to appreciate the talent and hard work that went into creating it.

So, the next time you’re watching "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation," remember the incredible cast who brought it to life. And don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family! Who knows, it might just become a new holiday tradition.

Biography of the Cast Members
Who is Chevy Chase?
Beverly D’Angelo
Juliette Lewis
Johnny Galecki
Steve Forrest
Behind the Scenes
The Impact on Pop Culture
Conclusion

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