Who Played Grandpa in Christmas Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, you may be wondering who played the lovable and quirky character of Grandpa. Well, wonder no more! In this article, we’ll reveal the actor behind the role and provide some interesting facts about his life and career.

The Actor Who Played Grandpa in Christmas Vacation

The actor who played Grandpa in Christmas Vacation is none other than E.G. Marshall.

Marshall was a prolific American actor with a career spanning over five decades. He was born on June 18, 1914, in Owatonna, Minnesota, and began his acting career on stage before transitioning to film and television.

Marshall appeared in numerous films throughout his career, including classics like 12 Angry Men and The Defiant Ones. He also had a successful television career with roles in popular shows such as The Twilight Zone, Law & Order, and The Bold Ones: The New Doctors.

In Christmas Vacation, Marshall played the role of Clark Griswold’s cantankerous father-in-law who constantly complains about everything from his hard-of-hearing wife to his granddaughter’s annoying cat. Despite his gruff exterior, Grandpa is also known for his tender moments with his family and for delivering some of the movie’s most memorable lines.

Interesting Facts About E. Marshall

Aside from his successful acting career, there are many interesting facts about E. Marshall that you may not know:

  • Marshall graduated from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota.
  • He served in the U.S. Army during World War II.
  • Marshall was a founding member of the American Shakespeare Theater.
  • He received four Emmy nominations throughout his television career.
  • Marshall passed away on August 24, 1998 at the age of 84.

Conclusion

Now that you know who played Grandpa in Christmas Vacation, you can appreciate his performance even more. E.

Marshall was a talented actor with a successful career and a fascinating life story. If you’re a fan of his work, be sure to check out some of his other movies and television shows for more great performances.