If you’re a fan of classic holiday movies, then you’ve probably seen “Christmas Vacation” more times than you can count. This beloved comedy from 1989 tells the story of the Griswold family as they try to navigate the challenges of hosting their extended family for Christmas.
One character that stands out in particular is Cousin Eddie, played by Randy Quaid. But who exactly is Eddie and why does he keep showing up unannounced at the Griswold’s doorstep?
Eddie is Clark Griswold’s Cousin
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that Eddie is not actually a brother to any of the characters in “Christmas Vacation.” Rather, he is Clark Griswold’s cousin.
Who is Clark Griswold?
Before we dive into Eddie’s backstory, let’s take a quick look at who Clark Griswold is. In “Christmas Vacation,” Clark is portrayed by Chevy Chase as a well-meaning but bumbling family man who wants nothing more than to create the perfect Christmas for his loved ones.
Eddie’s First Appearance
Eddie first appears in “Christmas Vacation” when he shows up unannounced at the Griswold residence in an old RV with his wife Catherine and their two kids. It quickly becomes clear that Eddie and Catherine are very different from the rest of the family – they’re loud, crude, and prone to causing chaos wherever they go.
Eddie’s Relationship with Clark
Despite their differences, Eddie and Clark have a close relationship. In fact, it’s revealed later in the movie that Clark has been sending money to Eddie for years to help support his family.
Eddie’s Role in “Christmas Vacation”
Throughout the movie, Eddie serves as both comic relief and a source of tension for the Griswolds. He and his family cause all sorts of problems, from draining the family’s septic tank into the storm drain to kidnapping Clark’s boss.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cousin Eddie is an iconic character in “Christmas Vacation” who adds a much-needed dose of humor and chaos to the movie. While he may not be a brother to any of the characters, his relationship with Clark Griswold is an important part of his backstory and helps to make him a more sympathetic character. So next time you watch “Christmas Vacation,” be sure to keep an eye out for Eddie – he’s one character you won’t forget anytime soon.
- Key Takeaways:
- Eddie is Clark Griswold’s cousin
- He first appears in “Christmas Vacation” with his wife and two kids in an old RV
- Eddie serves as both comic relief and a source of tension in the movie
- His relationship with Clark is an important part of his backstory