If you’re a fan of the classic holiday film National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, you may be curious about the fate of some of its beloved characters. While many of the actors are still with us today, unfortunately, several have passed away over the years. Here’s a look at who has left us from the world of Christmas Vacation:
William Hickey (Lewis)
If you’re a diehard fan of the movie, you’ll remember William Hickey as Lewis, Uncle Lewis’ cantankerous wife. Sadly, Hickey passed away in 1997 at the age of 69 due to complications from emphysema.
Mae Questel (Bethany)
Mae Questel played Bethany, Aunt Bethany’s best friend and partner in crime. Questel was also known for lending her voice to iconic cartoon characters such as Betty Boop and Olive Oyl. She passed away in 1998 at the age of 89.
John Randolph (Clark Sr.)
John Randolph portrayed Clark Griswold’s father in Christmas Vacation. He was also a prolific character actor whose career spanned several decades. Randolph passed away in 2004 at the age of 88.
Natalie Schaefer (Nora Griswold)
Natalie Schaefer played Clark’s mother-in-law, Nora Griswold. She was best known for her role as Mrs. Howell on Gilligan’s Island but also had a long career on stage and screen. Schaefer passed away in 1991 at the age of 90.
Diane Ladd (Nora Griswold – replacement)
Diane Ladd replaced Natalie Schaefer as Nora Griswold in Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddie’s Island Adventure. Ladd is still alive and well today at the age of 85.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Margo Chester)
While Julia Louis-Dreyfus is thankfully still with us, her character Margo Chester’s fate is a bit more ambiguous. At the end of the movie, Margo and her husband Todd are seen falling through a window after a faulty newel post gives way. However, it’s never confirmed whether or not they survive the fall.
- In conclusion, while it’s always sad to hear about the passing of actors we’ve grown to love on screen, their performances continue to live on and bring joy to audiences year after year. As for National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, it remains a timeless holiday classic that will always hold a special place in our hearts.