Chevy Chase Biography, Age, Net Worth, Height, Movies & Latest Updates

From his groundbreaking work as an original Saturday Night Live cast member to his starring roles in beloved comedies like Caddyshack and the Vacation films, Chase has left an indelible mark on entertainment. His recent projects and enduring popularity demonstrate his lasting impact on Hollywood comedy.

Real Name	Cornelius Crane Chase
Nick Name	Chevy
Profession	Comedian, Actor, Writer
Date of Birth	October 8, 1943
Age	81 years (as of 2025)
Birth Place	New York City, New York, United States
Height	6 feet 3 inches / 192 cm
Weight	Not publicly disclosed
Net Worth	Estimated $50 million (2025)
Marital Status	Married
Nationality	American

Chevy Chase's Biography

Chevy Chase is famous as Chevy and is a prominent figure in the American entertainment industry. He is renowned as a comedian, actor, and writer, and is considered one of the most influential comedy performers in Hollywood history.

Cornelius Crane "Chevy" Chase revolutionized television comedy as one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live in 1975. His creation of the Weekend Update segment became a cornerstone of the show that continues today. Chase's dry wit and physical comedy style made him an instant breakout star during SNL's inaugural season.

After leaving SNL, Chase transitioned to film stardom with a series of hit comedies throughout the 1980s. His portrayal of characters like Ty Webb in Caddyshack and Clark Griswold in the National Lampoon's Vacation films established him as a leading man in comedy cinema. His deadpan delivery and everyman charm resonated with audiences worldwide.

Like other successful stars such as Bill Murray and Jacob Batalon, Chevy Chase has carved a unique niche in the entertainment world through his distinctive comedic persona and memorable characters.

Chevy Chase's Early Life & Education

Childhood & Family Background

Chevy Chase was born on October 8, 1943 in New York City, New York. His father's name is Edward Tinsley "Ned" Chase, who worked as a book editor, and his mother's name is Cathalene Parker, who was a concert pianist. Chase has one older sibling - his brother Ned Chase Jr.

Growing up in Woodstock, New York, Chase was raised in an intellectual and artistic household. His mother's musical background and his father's literary career exposed him to creative expression from an early age. The family valued education and cultural pursuits, which would later influence Chase's comedic sensibilities and writing abilities.

Educational Journey

Chase completed his early education at Riverdale Country School before attending the Stockbridge School, where he graduated as valedictorian. He initially enrolled at Haverford College but later transferred to Bard College in New York, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English.

During his college years, Chase showed interest in pre-medical studies before ultimately pursuing English literature. His academic background in literature and writing would prove invaluable in his later career as a comedy writer and performer. The skills he developed in creative writing and critical thinking became fundamental to his success in entertainment.

Chevy Chase's Personal Life

Relationships & Dating History

Chevy Chase is currently married to Jayni Luke, whom he wed on June 19, 1982, in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, California. The couple has been together for over 40 years and has built a strong family foundation together. Their enduring marriage is considered one of Hollywood's success stories.

Before marrying Jayni, Chase had previous relationships and marriages, but his union with Jayni has been his most stable and lasting. The couple shares three daughters: Cydney Chase, Caley Chase, and Emily Chase. Chase has often spoken about how fatherhood changed his perspective and priorities in life.

Lifestyle & Personal Interests

Chase is known for his intellectual pursuits and dry sense of humor off-screen. He enjoys music, having played drums and keyboards throughout his life. His favorite activities include spending time with family at their Bedford, New York, residence and supporting various environmental and charitable causes.

Favorite Food	Italian cuisine
Favorite Color	Blue
Favorite Actor/Actress	Classic Hollywood comedians
Favorite Music	Jazz, Classical
Hobbies	Music, Comedy writing, Environmental causes
Favorite Destination	Bedford, New York

Chase maintains a relatively private lifestyle compared to many celebrities, preferring to focus on family time and personal interests. He has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly those related to environmental conservation. His approach to life reflects a balance between his public persona and private values.

Chevy Chase's Career Journey

Career Debut & Early Struggles

Chevy Chase started his career in 1974 with "The Groove Tube," a sketch comedy film that showcased his early comedic talents. His journey began when he was selected as one of the original cast members for Saturday Night Live in 1975. The breakthrough came with his creation and hosting of the Weekend Update segment, which made him a household name.

Career Debut
First Movie/Project	The Groove Tube (1974)
Television Breakthrough	Saturday Night Live (1975)
Created Segment	Weekend Update
Role	Cast member, Writer, Performer
Impact	Emmy Awards and national recognition

Chase's early career was marked by his unique comedic style that blended physical comedy with deadpan delivery. His work on SNL earned him two Emmy Awards in 1976, establishing him as a major talent in television comedy. However, he made the bold decision to leave SNL after just one season to pursue film opportunities.

Major Success & Recognition

Chase gained massive film recognition with "Foul Play" (1978), which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. This success was followed by iconic roles in "Caddyshack" (1980) as Ty Webb and "National Lampoon's Vacation" (1983) as Clark Griswold. His performance as the well-meaning but hapless family man became a defining character of 1980s comedy.

The Vacation film series, including "Christmas Vacation" (1989), became a cultural phenomena that continue to entertain new generations. Chase's portrayal of Fletch in the 1985 mystery-comedy showcased his versatility as a leading man. His work in "¡Three Amigos!" (1986) demonstrated his ability to work in ensemble comedies alongside Steve Martin and Martin Short.

Chase's return to television with "Community" (2009-2014) introduced him to a new generation of fans. His role as Pierce Hawthorne showcased his ability to evolve as a performer while maintaining his distinctive comedic voice. Recent projects like "The Last Laugh" (2019) on Netflix demonstrate his continued relevance in contemporary entertainment.

Chevy Chase's Net Worth & Financial Success

Chevy Chase has achieved remarkable financial success through his entertainment career. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is $50 million, making him one of the wealthiest comedic actors of his generation in Hollywood.

Net Worth (2025)	$50 million (estimated)
Peak Career Earnings	1980s-1990s film period
Primary Income Sources	Film royalties, TV residuals
SNL Salary (1975-76)	$750 per episode
Peak Movie Fees	$4-6 million per film
Residual Income	Vacation films, Caddyshack, Fletch

Chase's wealth primarily stems from his successful film career during the 1980s and 1990s, when he commanded multi-million dollar salaries for leading roles. The enduring popularity of films like "Christmas Vacation" and "Caddyshack" continues to generate substantial residual income through television broadcasts, streaming platforms, and home video sales.

Luxury Lifestyle & Assets

Chase enjoys a comfortable lifestyle with his wealth, primarily residing in Bedford, New York, where he owns a substantial estate. His real estate portfolio reflects his success, though he maintains a relatively modest lifestyle compared to some Hollywood contemporaries. He has invested wisely in property and maintains financial privacy regarding specific assets.

Primary Residence	Bedford, New York estate
Investment Strategy	Real estate, conservative portfolio
Lifestyle	Private, family-focused

Chevy Chase's Physical Appearance & Style

Height	6 feet 3 inches / 192 cm
Weight	Not publicly disclosed
Body Type	Tall, lanky
Eye Color	Brown
Hair Color	Gray (originally brown)
Skin Tone	Fair
Distinctive Features	Tall stature, expressive face, deadpan expression

Chevy Chase is known for his tall, imposing stature that contributed to his commanding screen presence. At 6'3", he often towered over his co-stars, which became part of his comedic persona. His expressive face and ability to maintain a deadpan expression while delivering punchlines became signature elements of his performance style.

Throughout his career, Chase has maintained a classic, understated fashion sense that reflects his intellectual background and East Coast upbringing. His style evolution from the 1970s SNL days to his current appearance shows a consistent preference for traditional, well-tailored clothing. His distinguished gray hair and mature appearance have allowed him to transition gracefully into character roles and elder statesman status in comedy.

Chevy Chase's Awards & Achievements

Chevy Chase has received numerous accolades for his outstanding contribution to the entertainment industry. His talent has been recognized both nationally and internationally through prestigious awards and honors that celebrate his impact on comedy and television.

Year	Award	Category	Work
1976	Primetime Emmy	Outstanding Writing for Variety Series	Saturday Night Live
1976	Primetime Emmy	Outstanding Individual Performance	Saturday Night Live
1979	Golden Globe (Nominated)	Best Actor – Musical/Comedy	Foul Play
1993	Hollywood Walk of Fame	Star Recognition	Career Achievement
1996	Harvard Lampoon	Lifetime Achievement Award	Comedy Contribution

Major Recognition & Honors

Chase has achieved several milestones, including being the first person to host the Academy Awards twice in consecutive years (1987 and 1988). He was also honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1993, recognizing his significant contributions to entertainment. His work on Saturday Night Live earned him two Emmy Awards in the same year, a rare achievement for a comedy performer.

Beyond formal awards, Chase's cultural impact is evidenced by the enduring popularity of his characters and catchphrases. His creation of Weekend Update has influenced decades of television comedy, and his film roles continue to be quoted and referenced in popular culture. The Harvard Lampoon's Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes his lasting influence on American humor.

Chevy Chase's Latest News & Upcoming Projects

Current Projects (2025)

Currently, Chevy Chase continues to make selective appearances in film projects. His most recent work includes "The Christmas Letter" (2024), where he co-stars alongside Randy Quaid and Brian Doyle-Murray. This project marks his return to holiday-themed comedy, reminiscent of his beloved "Christmas Vacation" performance.

Project	Role	Co-Stars	Release Date	Status
The Christmas Letter	Supporting Role	Randy Quaid, Brian Doyle-Murray	2024	Released
Various Interviews	Guest Appearances	Various Hosts	Ongoing 2025	Active

Recent News & Updates

Chase has been making headlines in 2025 for his candid interviews about his career and the evolution of comedy. He has participated in several retrospective documentaries about Saturday Night Live's early years and the making of classic 1980s comedies. His insights into the comedy industry and reflections on his contemporaries have generated renewed interest in his work.

At 81, Chase remains active in selective projects and continues to engage with fans through occasional public appearances. His legacy projects focus on preserving the history of American comedy and mentoring younger performers. Industry observers note his more reflective approach to discussing his career and relationships with former colleagues.

Trending 2025 News Snippets

Here are the latest updates keeping Chevy Chase in the spotlight:

• September 2025: Chase appeared at the SNL 50th Anniversary retrospective, discussing the creation of Weekend Update

• August 2025: "The Christmas Letter" streaming numbers exceeded expectations on holiday movie platforms

• July 2025: Chase gave his first in-depth interview in years about reconciling with former SNL cast members

• June 2025: Vacation franchise rumors suggest possible final Clark Griswold cameo appearance

• May 2025: Chase's Bedford, New York home featured in an architectural magazine for its classic design

Chevy Chase's Controversies & Challenges

Like many celebrities, Chevy Chase has faced his share of challenges and controversies throughout his career, most notably stemming from reported tensions with colleagues and his reputation for being difficult to work with on certain projects.

The most famous controversy occurred in 1978 when Chase and Bill Murray engaged in a backstage altercation at Saturday Night Live. The incident was reportedly sparked by personal barbs and professional jealousy, though both comedians later reconciled and successfully worked together in "Caddyshack" (1980). This incident became part of SNL lore and highlighted the competitive nature of the show's early years.

Chase's departure from "Community" before the series finale was accompanied by reports of on-set tensions and disagreements about his character's direction. However, he has since expressed gratitude for the experience and praised his younger co-stars for their professionalism and talent.

Chevy Chase's Interesting Facts & Trivia

Here are some fascinating and lesser-known facts about Chevy Chase that showcase his unique personality and journey:

• Chase originally wanted to become a doctor before entering the entertainment industry, studying pre-med before switching to English literature.
• He has a hidden talent for playing multiple musical instruments, including drums and keyboards, which he developed during his college years.
• His first salary from Saturday Night Live was $750 per episode, which he used to support his transition from writing to performing.
• Chase is fluent in basic French and has demonstrated language skills in various interviews and performances.
• He has a fear of heights but overcame it to perform several physical comedy stunts throughout his career.
• Writing comedy sketches is something he does regularly as a creative exercise, even when not working on projects.
• Chase was discovered for SNL through his work with the National Lampoon comedy troupe and magazine.
• He has never performed stand-up comedy in traditional comedy clubs, preferring sketch and character work.
• Chase secretly supports several environmental conservation organizations that fans rarely hear about.
• His favorite co-star to work with was reportedly Goldie Hawn from "Foul Play" because of their natural comedic chemistry.
• Chase owns a vintage drum kit from the 1960s, which has special sentimental value from his music-playing days.
• He once turned down a major sitcom role in the 1990s to focus on film work and family time.

Chevy Chase's Social Media & Fan Following

Chevy Chase maintains a relatively limited social media presence compared to many contemporary celebrities. He prefers traditional media appearances and maintains privacy regarding his personal life online. His official representation primarily manages his public communications.

Platform	Handle	Status	Content Type
Official Website	Official Chevy Chase	Active	Career information, biography
Instagram	Not officially active	No verified account	N/A
Twitter/X	Not officially active	No verified account	N/A
Facebook	Fan pages only	Unofficial	Fan-generated content

Chase's approach to social media reflects his preference for maintaining privacy and focusing on traditional entertainment mediums. His fan following remains strong through appreciation of his classic works and occasional media appearances. The absence of social media presence has not diminished his cultural relevance or fan engagement.

His legacy continues to grow through streaming platforms and television reruns, introducing his work to new generations without requiring active social media management. This approach aligns with his established persona and professional preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chevy Chase

Personal Information

What is Chevy Chase's real name and age?

Chevy Chase's real name is Cornelius Crane Chase, and he was born on October 8, 1943, making him 81 years old as of 2025.

What is Chevy Chase's height and physical appearance?

Chevy Chase stands 6 feet 3 inches tall (192 cm) with a lanky build, brown eyes, and gray hair. His tall stature became part of his comedic presence.

Is Chevy Chase married and does he have children?

Yes, Chevy Chase has been married to Jayni Luke since June 19, 1982. They have three daughters together: Cydney Chase, Caley Chase, and Emily Chase.

Where was Chevy Chase born, and where does he live now?

Chase was born in New York City and grew up in Woodstock, New York. He currently lives in Bedford, New York, with his family.

What is Chevy Chase's educational background?

Chase attended Riverdale Country School and graduated as valedictorian from Stockbridge School before earning a BA in English from Bard College.

Career & Professional Life

How did Chevy Chase start his career in entertainment?

Chase began with "The Groove Tube" in 1974 but achieved breakthrough success as an original cast member of Saturday Night Live in 1975, where he created the Weekend Update segment.

What are Chevy Chase's most famous movies and roles?

Chase's most iconic roles include Clark Griswold in the National Lampoon's Vacation series, Ty Webb in Caddyshack, and Fletch in the 1985 comedy mystery film.

Why did Chevy Chase leave Saturday Night Live after one season?

Chase left SNL in 1976 after the first season to pursue film opportunities, believing movies would provide better career advancement than television at the time.

What was Chevy Chase's role in the TV show Community?

Chase played Pierce Hawthorne, an elderly study group member, from 2009 to 2014. The role introduced him to a new generation of fans but was also marked by reported on-set tensions.

Has Chevy Chase won any major awards?

Yes, Chase won two Emmy Awards in 1976 for his work on Saturday Night Live and received a Golden Globe nomination for "Foul Play" in 1979.

Financial & Lifestyle

What is Chevy Chase's net worth in 2025?

Chevy Chase's estimated net worth is approximately $50 million as of 2025, earned through his successful film and television career spanning five decades.

What were Chevy Chase's highest-earning movies?

The National Lampoon's Vacation franchise, Caddyshack, and Fletch were among his highest-grossing films that continue to generate residual income through reruns and streaming.

How much did Chevy Chase earn from Saturday Night Live?

Chase earned $750 per episode during his time on SNL in 1975-76, which was considered good money for television at the time but modest by today's standards.

Does Chevy Chase still make money from his old movies?

Yes, Chase continues to earn residuals from his classic films, particularly "Christmas Vacation" and "Caddyshack," which are frequently broadcast and streamed.

Personal Interests & Facts

What are Chevy Chase's hobbies and interests?

Chase enjoys playing musical instruments (drums and keyboards), comedy writing, and supporting environmental conservation causes. He maintains a relatively private lifestyle.

What is Chevy Chase's personality like off-screen?

Chase is described as intellectual and witty, with interests in literature and music. He's known for being private about his personal life and family-focused.

Does Chevy Chase still perform or act?

Chase makes selective appearances in projects that interest him, such as his recent role in "The Christmas Letter" (2024), but he's largely semi-retired from regular acting.

What charities or causes does Chevy Chase support?

Chase quietly supports various environmental conservation organizations and charitable causes, though he prefers to keep his philanthropic activities private.

Controversies & Relationships

What was the controversy between Chevy Chase and Bill Murray?

In 1978, Chase and Bill Murray had a backstage fight at Saturday Night Live stemming from personal tensions and professional rivalry. They later reconciled and worked together successfully in "Caddyshack."

Why did Chevy Chase leave the TV show Community?

Chase left "Community" before the series finale due to reported creative differences and on-set tensions, though he has since expressed appreciation for the experience and his co-stars.

Has Chevy Chase had other controversies in his career?

Chase has faced occasional criticism for being difficult to work with on some projects, but these issues have generally been resolved professionally and haven't significantly impacted his career legacy.

Social Media & Current Status

Is Chevy Chase active on social media platforms?

No, Chase does not maintain active verified social media accounts on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. He has an official website but prefers traditional media for public communications.

How can fans follow Chevy Chase's latest news?

Fans can visit his official website at officialchevychase.com for career updates and follow entertainment news outlets for his occasional interviews and project announcements.

Does Chevy Chase interact with fans online?

Chase rarely interacts online directly with fans, preferring occasional public appearances, interviews, and traditional media engagement over social media interaction.

Family & Background

What is Chevy Chase's family background and upbringing?

Chase comes from an intellectual family - his father, Edward "Ned" Chase, was a book editor, and his mother, Cathalene Parker, was a concert pianist. He was raised in an artistic, culturally-rich environment.

Does Chevy Chase have any siblings?

Yes, Chase has an older brother named Ned Chase Jr. The brothers were raised together in Woodstock, New York.

What is Chevy Chase's zodiac sign and does it influence his personality?

Born on October 8, 1943, Chase's zodiac sign is Libra, which is associated with balance, charm, and a diplomatic nature - traits that align with his comedic style and intellectual approach.

Legacy & Impact

What is Chevy Chase's most lasting contribution to comedy?

Chase's creation of the Weekend Update segment on Saturday Night Live remains his most enduring legacy, as the format continues to be a cornerstone of the show nearly 50 years later.

How has Chevy Chase influenced modern comedy?

Chase's deadpan delivery style and physical comedy approach influenced generations of comedic actors. His work bridged the gap between television sketch comedy and film stardom.

What makes Chevy Chase's comedy style unique?

Chase's style combines intellectual wit with physical comedy, deadpan delivery, and an everyman persona that made complex characters accessible to mainstream audiences.

Are Chevy Chase's movies still popular with new audiences?

Yes, films like "Christmas Vacation," "Caddyshack," and "Fletch" continue to find new audiences through streaming platforms, television reruns, and cultural references in modern media.

What awards and recognition has Chevy Chase received for his career?

Chase has won two Emmy Awards, received a Golden Globe nomination, earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and received the Harvard Lampoon's Lifetime Achievement Award.

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