Cast of Christmas Vacation: Then and Now
Introduction
Christmas Vacation, a classic American comedy film released in 1983, has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Directed by John Hughes, the film follows the misadventures of Clark Griswold, a suburban dad determined to create the perfect family Christmas. Over the years, the film has become a staple of holiday viewing, and its cast has grown to become beloved figures in popular culture. This article explores the cast of Christmas Vacation then and now, highlighting the evolution of their careers and the enduring legacy of the film.
The Original Cast
Clark Griswold: Chevy Chase
Chevy Chase, who played the iconic role of Clark Griswold, has been a staple of American comedy for decades. After Christmas Vacation, Chase went on to star in other successful comedies, such as National Lampoon’s Vacation and Caddyshack. While his career has had its ups and downs, Chase remains a respected actor and comedian.
Ellen Griswold: Beverly D’Angelo
Beverly D’Angelo, who portrayed Ellen Griswold, has had a diverse career in film and television. After Christmas Vacation, she starred in films like Blind Date and The Freshman. D’Angelo has also appeared in numerous television shows, including Murphy Brown and The Good Wife.\
Rusty Griswold: Johnny Hughes
Johnny Hughes, who played Rusty Griswold, was a child actor at the time of Christmas Vacation. Since then, Hughes has had a relatively quiet career, with only a few minor roles in television and film. Despite his limited screen time, Hughes remains a memorable part of the Christmas Vacation cast.
Audrey Griswold: Juliette Lewis
Juliette Lewis, who played Audrey Griswold, was just 10 years old when she appeared in the film. Her performance was widely praised, and she went on to have a successful acting career. Lewis has starred in films like Natural Born Killers and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. She has also appeared in television shows such as Nurse Jackie and The Americans.\
Russ Griswold: John Candy
John Candy, who played Russ Griswold, was a beloved actor and comedian before his untimely death in 1994. Candy’s career was marked by his ability to bring warmth and humor to any role. In addition to Christmas Vacation, he starred in films like Planes, Trains, and Automobiles and Home Alone.\
The Cast Today
Chevy Chase
Chevy Chase has continued to work in film and television since Christmas Vacation. He has appeared in shows like Community and The Office, and has made guest appearances on various other programs. Chase has also been involved in voice acting, lending his voice to characters in animated films and television shows.
Beverly D’Angelo
Beverly D’Angelo has maintained a steady presence in film and television over the years. She has appeared in films like The Wedding Singer and The Proposal, and has had recurring roles on shows like The Good Wife and The Sopranos.\
Johnny Hughes
Johnny Hughes has had a quiet career since Christmas Vacation, with only a few minor roles in television and film. However, he remains a memorable part of the film’s cast and is often recognized by fans for his role as Rusty Griswold.
Juliette Lewis
Juliette Lewis has continued to have a successful acting career, with roles in films like Cruel Intentions and 21 Grams. She has also appeared in television shows such as Nurse Jackie and The Americans.\
John Candy
John Candy’s legacy lives on through his work and the impact he had on the comedy world. While he is no longer with us, his performances continue to be celebrated, and his spirit remains an integral part of the Christmas Vacation cast.
The Enduring Legacy of Christmas Vacation\
Christmas Vacation has become a beloved holiday classic, with its cast playing a significant role in its enduring popularity. The film’s humor, heartwarming moments, and memorable characters have made it a staple of the holiday season. The cast’s evolution over the years has only added to the film’s legacy, with each actor bringing their own unique experiences and perspectives to their roles.
Conclusion
The cast of Christmas Vacation has grown and evolved over the years, each member contributing to the film’s enduring legacy. From Chevy Chase’s iconic portrayal of Clark Griswold to John Candy’s warm-hearted Russ Griswold, the cast has left an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences. As the film continues to be a staple of holiday viewing, the cast’s journey from then to now serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of a classic film.
