In 1983, audiences were introduced to the Griswolds, the hilariously dysfunctional family at the heart of National Lampoon’s Vacation. This iconic road trip comedy, starring Chevy Chase, set the gold standard for the genre, influencing countless films that followed. As we celebrate the enduring legacy of this movie, let’s take a nostalgic look back at the Family Vacation Cast 1983 and see where their careers have taken them since their chaotic journey to Walley World.
Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold
Then: Chevy Chase, already a household name from Saturday Night Live, embodied the role of Clark Griswold, the well-intentioned but perpetually clumsy patriarch. It was Clark’s earnest desire for a perfect family vacation that propelled the comedic narrative. Working closely with director Harold Ramis, Chase contributed to uncredited rewrites, shifting the narrative’s focus to the parental perspective in John Hughes’ original script.
Now: Chase became synonymous with Clark Griswold, reprising the role in multiple Vacation sequels, including Christmas Vacation and Vegas Vacation. He even brought Clark back for Old Navy commercials, showcasing the character’s lasting pop culture impact. Rumors circulated about his involvement in the Vacation reboot featuring Ed Helms as Rusty Griswold. Beyond the Griswolds, Chase enjoyed a successful television career, notably starring in Community. However, his tenure on Community was marked by reported clashes with creator Dan Harmon, adding a layer of complexity to his later career.
Beverly D’Angelo as Ellen Griswold
Then: Beverly D’Angelo, already recognized for her roles in Annie Hall and Coal Miner’s Daughter, solidified her iconic status as Ellen Griswold. Ellen became a relatable figure, the long-suffering wife navigating the chaos of Clark’s vacation mishaps with a mix of exasperation and enduring love. Her portrayal of Ellen cemented her place in cinematic family vacation history.
Now: D’Angelo’s career flourished after Vacation, demonstrating impressive range across genres and mediums. She appeared in television series like Entourage, independent films such as Nowhere, and critically acclaimed movies like American History X. Like Chase, she revisited her role as Ellen in the Vacation reboot, much to the delight of fans. Her diverse filmography showcases a career that extends far beyond her beloved portrayal of Ellen Griswold, yet that role remains a career highlight.
Anthony Michael Hall as Rusty Griswold
Then: Anthony Michael Hall, a prominent figure in John Hughes’ 1980s films, began his Hughes collaborations with Vacation. He was the first of four actors to play Rusty Griswold, the teenage son enduring the mortification of a family vacation gone wrong. This role marked the start of Hall’s successful run as a teen icon in 80s cinema.
Now: Hall’s career remained closely tied to John Hughes, starring in Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Weird Science. He briefly joined Saturday Night Live as a cast member and later reunited with Chevy Chase in two episodes of Community. Hall demonstrated his versatility with roles in The Dark Knight and television shows like Awkward and Psych. From teen roles to more mature characters, Hall has maintained a steady presence in film and television, showcasing his enduring acting talent.
Dana Barron as Audrey Griswold
Then: Dana Barron’s portrayal of Audrey Griswold was one of her early roles. Despite playing Rusty’s younger sister, Barron was actually two years older than Anthony Michael Hall, highlighting the typical Hollywood age dynamics. Audrey represented the teenage daughter experience on a disastrous family vacation, complete with teenage angst and sibling rivalry.
Now: Barron primarily focused on television work, continuing to act steadily in various TV movies and series. She reprised her role as Audrey in Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure, demonstrating her connection to the Vacation franchise. More recent appearances include roles in Leverage and the short film Mayfly. While her career path differed from some of her Vacation co-stars, Barron has maintained a consistent presence in the entertainment industry.
Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie
Then: Randy Quaid, brother of Dennis Quaid and a respected character actor, delivered a memorable performance as Cousin Eddie. Eddie, the uncouth and clueless relative who unexpectedly joins the family vacation, became a fan favorite for his outrageous behavior and quotable lines. Quaid’s comedic timing and commitment to the character made Cousin Eddie an unforgettable part of the Vacation universe.
Now: Quaid frequently revisited the role of Cousin Eddie in Vacation sequels and the TV movie. He built a prolific film career with roles in numerous movies across various genres. However, in more recent years, Quaid has been in the news for legal issues and personal struggles, including seeking refuge in Canada. Despite these challenges, his comedic portrayal of Cousin Eddie remains a cultural touchstone.
Miriam Flynn as Cousin Catherine
Then: Miriam Flynn, an experienced comedic actress from the Second City comedy troupe, played Catherine, Cousin Eddie’s equally quirky wife. Catherine, although quieter than Eddie, contributed to the comedic dynamic of the extended family vacation with her own brand of eccentricity and unwavering support for her husband.
Now: Flynn enjoyed a successful career in voice acting and television after Vacation. She, too, reprised Catherine in Vacation sequels and the TV movie. Flynn had a recurring role on the TV show Suburgatory, among other television credits. Her work showcases a versatile career that includes both on-screen and voice acting roles, further solidifying her presence in the entertainment world.
Jane Krakowski as Cousin Vicki
Then: Jane Krakowski made her film debut in Vacation as Cousin Vicki, Eddie and Catherine’s daughter. Vicki represented the younger generation of the eccentric Cousin Eddie clan, adding another layer of comedic absurdity to the family vacation dynamic. This early role marked the beginning of Krakowski’s successful acting career.
Now: Krakowski achieved significant recognition for her role as Jenna Maroney on 30 Rock, showcasing her comedic talent and musical abilities. Her career encompasses stage, television, and film, with notable roles in Ally McBeal and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. Krakowski’s success highlights the diverse paths taken by the Vacation cast members after their initial family vacation adventure.
Eugene Levy as the Car Salesman
Then: Eugene Levy, a celebrated comedic actor from SCTV, landed the role of the persistent car salesman in Vacation. Director Harold Ramis, familiar with Levy’s SCTV work, cast him in this memorable cameo. Levy’s comedic timing and portrayal of the pushy salesman contributed to the film’s overall comedic tone and Clark’s escalating frustrations during his family vacation preparations.
Now: Levy became widely known for his roles in Christopher Guest’s mockumentary films and as Jim’s dad in the American Pie series. His extensive filmography demonstrates a long and successful career in comedy. Most recently, he co-created and starred in the critically acclaimed Schitt’s Creek, further solidifying his status as a comedic icon.
Christie Brinkley as The Girl in the Ferrari
Then: Supermodel Christie Brinkley was cast as “The Girl in the Ferrari,” a dreamlike distraction for Clark during his chaotic family vacation drive. Initially intended as a teenage love interest for Rusty, the role evolved into a comedic fantasy for Clark after script rewrites by Chase and Ramis. Brinkley’s brief but memorable appearance became one of the film’s most iconic and humorous scenes.
Now: Brinkley reprised her role in Vegas Vacation, again tempting Clark. She made an appearance on Parks and Recreation as Jerry’s unexpected wife. Brinkley’s career has primarily remained in modeling and business ventures, but her association with the Vacation franchise endures, marking a unique foray into comedic acting for the supermodel.
The family vacation cast 1983 of National Lampoon’s Vacation left an indelible mark on comedy cinema. Each actor contributed to the film’s enduring appeal, and their subsequent careers have been as diverse and interesting as the Griswold family’s infamous road trip itself.
