Born Cornelius Crane Chase in New York City in 1943, Chevy Chase was the son of prominent literary figures Edward and Cathalene Parker Chase. From an early age, he showed a knack for comedy and acting, and he honed his skills at prep school and later at Bard College, where he studied English and drama.
After college, Chase began to make a name for himself in the New York City comedy scene. His distinctive voice and dry wit made him a hit on the stage and on radio programs like National Lampoon’s Radio Hour, where he got his big break in 1973.
But it was on television that Chase truly made his mark. In 1975, he was cast as a founding member of Saturday Night Live, the groundbreaking late-night comedy show that would go on to become a cultural touchstone. Chase quickly became one of the show’s most popular cast members, thanks to his deft impressions of political figures like Gerald Ford and his iconic portrayal of fellow Chevy Chase impersonator, newsreader Chase McClown.
Chase’s success on SNL led to a string of film roles throughout the 1980s, including turns in the classic comedies Caddyshack, National Lampoon’s Vacation, and Three Amigos. His deadpan delivery, goofy facial expressions, and effortless charm made him an audience favorite and cemented his status as a Hollywood A-lister.
But the 1990s were a difficult decade for Chevy Chase. His film career stalled, and personal problems, including a messy divorce and addiction issues, took their toll on his public image. Despite these setbacks, Chase continued to work, taking on a variety of roles in film and TV, including a recurring role as Pierce Hawthorne on the hit sitcom Community.
Throughout his career, Chevy Chase has always been known for his sharp wit, biting humor, and innate comic timing. But behind the scenes, he has also been a prolific writer and producer, contributing to some of the most beloved comedies of the past half-century. In addition to his work on SNL, he has written for National Lampoon magazine and co-created the hit TV show The Chevy Chase Show.
Today, Chevy Chase is regarded as a true comedic pioneer and cultural icon. His unique brand of humor has influenced generations of comedians and actors, and his legacy continues to inspire new talent today. Whether you know him from SNL, Caddyshack, or some other iconic role, there is no denying that Chevy Chase is one of the most important figures in American comedy history.