If you’re a fan of the Christmas classic “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” you may have found yourself wondering who the old aunt is that makes an appearance in the film. While her character may not have a significant role in the movie, she definitely adds to the dysfunctional family dynamic that we all know and love.
So, who is this mysterious aunt? Her name is Bethany, and she’s actually the wife of Clark Griswold’s cousin Eddie. You may remember Eddie as the lovable but dimwitted character who shows up unannounced with his family and their trailer in tow.
Bethany, on the other hand, is a bit more refined than her husband. She’s dressed elegantly in a fur coat and pearls, and she speaks with a refined accent that stands out amidst the chaos of the Griswold family gathering.
In one memorable scene, Bethany and her husband Eddie show up at the Griswold house unexpectedly after their trailer breaks down. As they enter the house, Bethany is visibly uncomfortable with the chaos that surrounds her. She politely declines Aunt Edna’s offer for some eggnog and instead asks for something without alcohol.
Despite her discomfort, Bethany tries to make the best of things by engaging in conversation with Ellen Griswold, Clark’s wife. The two women bond over their shared love of decorating for Christmas, but their conversation is cut short when Uncle Lewis accidentally sets fire to his cigar and chaos ensues once again.
While Bethany may not be a central character in “Christmas Vacation,” she adds to the humor and dysfunction of Clark Griswold’s family gathering. Her refined demeanor stands out amidst all of the craziness, making her a memorable addition to this holiday classic.
So there you have it – Bethany may be an old aunt who only appears briefly in “Christmas Vacation,” but she definitely leaves an impression on viewers. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the movie or just tuning in for the first time, keep an eye out for this memorable character and her husband Eddie on your next viewing.