Uncle Lewis is a beloved character from the classic holiday movie “Christmas Vacation”. He’s known for his hilarious one-liners and his tendency to accidentally cause chaos wherever he goes. But many fans have been left wondering – is Uncle Lewis still alive?
The Actor Who Played Uncle Lewis
Before we delve into the question of Uncle Lewis’ current state, let’s take a moment to appreciate the actor who brought him to life. Uncle Lewis was portrayed by the late character actor William Hickey.
Hickey was born in 1927 and began his acting career in the 1950s. He appeared in a variety of films and TV shows throughout his career, but he’s perhaps best known for his role as Uncle Lewis in “Christmas Vacation”.
Uncle Lewis’ Fate in “Christmas Vacation”
In “Christmas Vacation”, Uncle Lewis is a cantankerous old man who constantly bickers with his wife, Aunt Bethany. He’s also known for smoking a cigar indoors, which leads to one of the film’s most memorable scenes – when he accidentally ignites a Christmas tree with his lighter.
Despite all of this chaos, Uncle Lewis survives until the end of the movie. In fact, he even manages to redeem himself slightly by giving Clark Griswold (the film’s protagonist) an unexpected gift – an envelope full of cash.
Is William Hickey Still Alive?
Unfortunately, William Hickey passed away on June 29th, 1997 at the age of 69. His death was attributed to complications from emphysema and bronchitis.
Legacy of Uncle Lewis
Although William Hickey may no longer be with us, his performance as Uncle Lewis lives on as a beloved part of “Christmas Vacation”. The character has become iconic thanks to Hickey’s unique portrayal and the film’s enduring popularity.
The Importance of Uncle Lewis
While Uncle Lewis may seem like a minor character in “Christmas Vacation”, he serves an important purpose in the film. He adds to the chaos and comedy of the Griswold family’s holiday celebrations, and his interactions with other characters provide some of the movie’s most memorable moments.
In Conclusion
While Uncle Lewis may not be alive in real life, he lives on as a beloved character in “Christmas Vacation”. William Hickey’s portrayal of the cantankerous old man is unforgettable, and his legacy continues to bring joy to audiences around the world.