If you’re a fan of the National Lampoon’s Vacation franchise, you may have noticed a blonde actress who appeared in the first film. Her name is Christie Brinkley and she plays the role of “The Girl in the Ferrari”. But who exactly is Christie Brinkley and how did she land such an iconic role?
Who Is Christie Brinkley?
Christie Brinkley is a former supermodel and actress born on February 2, 1954, in Monroe, Michigan. She started her modeling career in the early 1970s, appearing on the covers of several major magazines such as Sports Illustrated and Vogue. She quickly became one of the most recognizable faces in the fashion industry.
How Did She Get Cast in National Lampoon’s Vacation?
Christie Brinkley was cast as “The Girl in the Ferrari” after being spotted by Harold Ramis, the director of National Lampoon’s Vacation. Ramis saw her on a billboard while driving down Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles and decided to approach her about playing a small but memorable role in his upcoming film.
The Role of “The Girl in the Ferrari”
In National Lampoon’s Vacation, Christie Brinkley plays a mysterious blonde woman driving a red Ferrari who catches the attention of Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) while he’s driving with his family to their destination. Her character tempts Clark into following her on a wild goose chase through various locations before ultimately disappearing without explanation.
- Brinkley’s character doesn’t have much dialogue but is remembered for her stunning looks and captivating smile.
- The scene where she drives past Chevy Chase’s character was filmed at Paradise Cove Beach Cafe located at 28128 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265
Christie Brinkley’s Legacy
Christie Brinkley’s role in National Lampoon’s Vacation was a small but memorable part of her career. She went on to appear in several other films and television shows, including Vegas Vacation, Parks and Recreation, and Celebrity Weddings InStyle. She also continued her successful modeling career well into her 60s, proving that age is just a number.
In Conclusion
Christie Brinkley’s appearance as “The Girl in the Ferrari” in National Lampoon’s Vacation has become an iconic moment in the franchise’s history. Her natural beauty and captivating smile made her the perfect fit for the role, which is still remembered by fans today. Despite having a relatively small role, Christie Brinkley proved that she was more than capable of leaving a lasting impression on audiences.