When Did Aunt Edna From Vacation Died?

By Michael Ferguson

If you are a fan of the National Lampoon’s Vacation movie franchise, then you probably remember Aunt Edna. She was the elderly relative that the Griswold family begrudgingly took on their cross-country road trip in the first movie. Unfortunately, Aunt Edna didn’t make it to the end of the journey, and her death has become a topic of discussion among fans.

The Scene

The scene where Aunt Edna dies is both memorable and controversial. The Griswold family is driving through the desert when they stop to take a picture by a roadside attraction.

While they are taking the photo, they realize that Aunt Edna has died in her sleep. The family decides to tie her body to the roof of their car and continue on with their trip.

The Controversy

The scene sparked controversy when it was released in 1983. Many people thought it was in poor taste to make light of death, especially since Aunt Edna was a beloved character. However, others found it hilarious and praised the filmmakers for their boldness.

When Did She Die

The question that many fans have been asking is when did Aunt Edna actually die Was it before they tied her to the roof or during the trip The answer is not clear from watching the movie alone, but director Harold Ramis gave some insight in an interview with Empire magazine.

Ramis said that he always imagined that Aunt Edna had died before they tied her to the roof. He believed that it was more realistic for her to have died peacefully in her sleep rather than during a bumpy car ride. However, he left it up to interpretation and allowed viewers to make up their own minds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there may never be a definitive answer to the question of when Aunt Edna died, it is clear that the scene has left a lasting impression on fans. Whether you find it funny or tasteless, it is hard to deny that it is one of the most memorable moments in the Vacation franchise.