If you’re a fan of the classic holiday movie, Christmas Vacation, you may remember Aunt Bethany as one of the eccentric characters that make the Griswold family’s Christmas memorable. But who exactly is Aunt Bethany and what role does she play in the film? Let’s dive into the details.
Who is Aunt Bethany?
Aunt Bethany is the elderly aunt of Clark Griswold’s wife, Ellen. She is portrayed by actress Mae Questel, who was best known for her voice work in classic cartoons such as Betty Boop and Popeye.
What is Aunt Bethany’s role in Christmas Vacation?
Aunt Bethany plays a small but memorable role in Christmas Vacation. She is invited to spend Christmas with the Griswold family at their home, where she brings her cat and her signature Jell-O mold dish. Throughout the movie, Aunt Bethany provides comedic relief with her forgetfulness and quirky behavior.
Aunt Bethany’s most memorable moments
One of Aunt Bethany’s most iconic scenes in Christmas Vacation is when she recites grace before dinner. However, instead of saying a prayer, she recites the Pledge of Allegiance. This moment adds to the chaos of the Griswold family’s already hectic holiday dinner.
Another memorable scene involving Aunt Bethany is when she wraps up her cat as a gift for Clark and Ellen’s children. The children open the present and are surprised to find a live cat inside, which causes chaos in the household.
Aunt Bethany’s impact on the film
While Aunt Bethany may only appear in a few scenes throughout Christmas Vacation, her presence leaves a lasting impact on both viewers and characters alike. Her forgetfulness and quirky behavior bring comedy to an already hilarious movie.
In addition to providing comedic relief, Aunt Bethany’s character also serves as a reminder of the importance of family during the holiday season. Despite her quirks, the Griswold family welcomes Aunt Bethany into their home and makes her feel loved and appreciated.
The legacy of Aunt Bethany
While Mae Questel passed away in 1998, her portrayal of Aunt Bethany continues to be a fan favorite in Christmas Vacation. The character’s memorable moments and quirky behavior have cemented her place in the holiday movie canon.
In fact, Aunt Bethany has become so popular that there are now Christmas decorations and merchandise featuring her likeness available for purchase. She has even inspired social media challenges, such as the “Aunt Bethany Challenge,” where participants attempt to recite the Pledge of Allegiance like she does in the film.
Conclusion
Aunt Bethany may be a small character in Christmas Vacation, but she plays an important role in adding humor and heart to the movie. Her forgetfulness and quirky behavior make her a fan favorite that viewers continue to love year after year. So if you’re looking for a good laugh this holiday season, be sure to revisit Aunt Bethany’s memorable moments in Christmas Vacation!