Who Played Grandpa in Christmas Vacation?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a fan of the classic holiday movie, “Christmas Vacation,” you may be wondering who played the lovable Grandpa character. Well, wonder no more! We’ve got all the details for you right here.

First things first, let’s get one thing straight – Grandpa’s full name is Art Smith and he’s played by veteran actor E.G. Marshall. Marshall was born in 1914 and had a long and successful career in film, television, and theater.

Now, let’s talk about his portrayal of Grandpa in “Christmas Vacation.” Marshall brings a level of warmth and humor to the character that is unmatched. He delivers some of the movie’s most memorable lines with perfect comedic timing.

One example is when he says, “The little lights aren’t twinkling, Clark.” This line has become one of the most quoted from the movie and Marshall’s delivery is a big reason why.

Another great moment with Grandpa comes when he tells Clark (played by Chevy Chase) about his time in the Army during World War II. This scene provides some much-needed heart to the movie and gives us a glimpse into Grandpa’s past.

Marshall was no stranger to playing supporting roles in movies. He had previously appeared in “Superman II” and “Nixon,” among others. However, it was his performance as Grandpa that cemented his place in pop culture history.

Sadly, Marshall passed away in 1998 at the age of 84. However, his legacy lives on through his many memorable performances on stage and screen.

In conclusion, E. Marshall played the beloved Grandpa character in “Christmas Vacation” with charm and humor that will be remembered for years to come. His performance adds to the timeless appeal of this holiday classic.