Beverly D’Angelo Says ‘Nobody Imagined’ “Christmas Vacation” Would Be ‘Part of Our Culture’ Over 30 Years Later (Exclusive)

Beverly D’Angelo Reflects on the Enduring Legacy of ‘Christmas Vacation’ (Exclusive)

Beverly D’Angelo, known for her role as matriarch Ellen Griswold in the beloved 1989 film “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” recently shared her thoughts on how the movie has become a part of our cultural fabric. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, D’Angelo expressed her surprise at the movie’s lasting impact, stating that “nobody imagined that 40 years down the line, the Griswolds would be part of our culture.”

D’Angelo, now 73, played opposite Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold in four “National Lampoon’s Vacation” movies, with “Christmas Vacation” being the fan-favorite. She explained that she sees the film not just as a comedy but as a love story, where despite the chaos of the Griswold family vacations, love ultimately prevails. The relatability of the characters and their holiday mishaps has endeared the movie to audiences for decades.

The actress shared that it was her children who first made her realize the film had become a holiday tradition for many families. Her twins, Anton and Olivia Pacino, with ex-partner Al Pacino, mentioned that their friends enjoyed the movie during the festive season, prompting D’Angelo to recognise its growing cultural significance, akin to her own childhood memories of watching “The Wizard of Oz” every Christmas.

Reuniting with her co-stars, including Chase and Randy Quaid, who played Cousin Eddie, has been a heartwarming experience for D’Angelo. She described Chase as being like a “brother” to her, highlighting the special bond formed during their time filming the Vacation series. The recent reunion at Rhode Island Comic Con with Chase, Quaid, and Juliette Lewis, who played Audrey Griswold, was a nostalgic moment for the cast and fans alike.

D’Angelo also spoke about the connection she feels with fans of the movie, emphasising the importance of acknowledging their support and shared experiences. As part of fostering this connection, she has teamed up with Wyndham Rewards to offer members an exclusive holiday promotion, allowing them to enjoy perks and upgrades during their stays. This initiative aims to make the holiday season a little smoother for fans of the classic film.

With the holiday season approaching, D’Angelo hopes to continue spreading joy and creating meaningful connections with fans. Her involvement with Wyndham Rewards reflects her desire to give back to the community that has supported her throughout her career. By partnering with the program, she seeks to enhance the holiday experience for fans and bring a touch of magic to their celebrations.

In conclusion, Beverly D’Angelo’s reflections on the enduring legacy of “Christmas Vacation” offer a glimpse into the lasting impact of the beloved film on audiences worldwide. As the holiday season approaches, her message of love, connection, and shared experiences resonates with fans who have made the Griswold family a cherished part of their festive traditions.