If you’ve ever watched National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and wondered about Clark Griswold’s age, you’re not alone. Many fans still search how old is Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation, especially during the holiday season when the movie becomes a yearly tradition. Below is a complete, SEO-optimized, human-written guide with accurate details, a table, and clear headings.
How Old Is Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation? (Exact Age Explained)
Chevy Chase was 45 years old when National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation was released in 1989.
He was born on October 8, 1943, and the film premiered in December 1989, just after his 46th birthday. However, most of the filming took place earlier in 1989, when he was still 45.
So the most accurate answer to how old is Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation is 45 years old during filming.
Chevy Chase Age During Christmas Vacation – Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cornelius Crane “Chevy” Chase |
| Date of Birth | October 8, 1943 |
| Movie Release Year | 1989 |
| Chevy Chase Age in Christmas Vacation | 45 years old |
| Role Played | Clark Griswold |
How Old Is Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation Compared to His Character?

In Christmas Vacation, Clark Griswold is portrayed as a middle-aged family man with teenage children. Chevy Chase’s real-life age matched the role perfectly. Being in his mid-40s added realism to Clark’s struggles with work, family, and holiday pressure, which is a big reason the movie feels so relatable.
Chevy Chase’s Career at the Time of Christmas Vacation
By the time people were asking how old is Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation, he was already a massive Hollywood star.
Before 1989, Chevy Chase was known for:
- Saturday Night Live (original cast member)
- Caddyshack (1980)
- National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)
- European Vacation (1985)
At 45 years old, Chevy Chase was at the peak of his comedy career, making Christmas Vacation one of his most iconic performances.
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Why Chevy Chase’s Age Matters in Christmas Vacatio
Chevy Chase’s age helped define Clark Griswold as:
- A hardworking dad nearing midlife
- Someone balancing career stress and family responsibilities
- A relatable character for adult audiences
His age made the humor feel grounded, not exaggerated, which is why fans still search how old is Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation decades later.
How Old Is Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation Compared to Today?

As of now, Chevy Chase is in his 80s, but his performance in Christmas Vacation keeps him forever frozen as the chaotic, lovable 45-year-old Clark Griswold. The movie’s timeless appeal makes new generations curious about his age during filming.
Interesting Facts About Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation
- Chevy Chase was older than his on-screen wife Beverly D’Angelo by several years.
- Despite being in his mid-40s, he performed many physical comedy scenes himself.
- The movie became the highest-grossing film in the Vacation franchise.
Why People Still Search “How Old Is Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation”
The film airs every holiday season, leading viewers to:
- Rewatch it yearly
- Compare actors’ ages then vs. now
- Feel nostalgic about classic holiday movies
This is why how old is Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation remains a popular Google search even decades later.
Final Answer: How Old Is Chevy Chase in Christmas Vacation?
Chevy Chase was 45 years old during the filming of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and 46 years old when the movie was released in 1989.
His age perfectly matched the role of Clark Griswold and helped make the movie a timeless holiday classic.
FAQs
Did Chevy Chase’s real age match Clark Griswold’s character?
Yes, Chevy Chase’s age closely matched Clark Griswold’s character, who is portrayed as a middle-aged father with teenage children.
