Chevy Chase's Cinematic Journey

By Kate Holtz — Staff writer for Massive Action Media covering entertainment news, including music, film, and celebrity lifestyles.

Early Career: Before Fame

Before becoming a household name, Chevy Chase worked as a writer and performer in sketch comedy. He was part of National Lampoon Magazine and The National Lampoon Radio Hour (1973-1974), where he developed his signature comedic style. Though he did stand-up and minor acting work, he wasn’t widely recognized at the time.

Breakthrough: The SNL Years

Chase became a star when he joined Saturday Night Live in 1975 at age 32 as one of the original cast members. His deadpan humor, physical comedy, and catchphrase "I'm Chevy Chase, and you're not" made him a standout. He left SNL in 1976 to pursue a film career, becoming one of Hollywood’s first major comedy stars of the late ‘70s and ‘80s.

🎬 Major Roles by Age

1978 (Age 34) - Foul Play ⭐ 6.8/10

1980 (Age 36) - Caddyshack ⭐ 7.3/10

1981 (Age 38) - Modern Problems ⭐ 5.0/10

1983 (Age 39) - National Lampoon’s Vacation ⭐ 7.4/10

1983 (Age 40) - Deal of the Century ⭐ 4.6/10

1985 (Age 41) - Fletch ⭐ 6.9/10

1985 (Age 41) - National Lampoon’s European Vacation ⭐ 6.2/10

1985 (Age 42) - Spies Like Us ⭐ 6.4/10

1986 (Age 43) - Three Amigos! ⭐ 6.5/10

1988 (Age 44) - Funny Farm ⭐ 6.2/10

1988 (Age 44) - Caddyshack II ⭐ 3.8/10

1989 (Age 45) - Fletch Lives ⭐ 6.1/10

1989 (Age 46) - National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation ⭐ 7.6/10

1991 (Age 47) - Nothing But Trouble ⭐ 5.1/10

1992 (Age 48) - Memoirs of an Invisible Man ⭐ 6.0/10

1994 (Age 50) - Cops & Robbersons ⭐ 5.2/10

1995 (Age 51) - Man of the House ⭐ 5.9/10

1997 (Age 53) - Vegas Vacation ⭐ 6.0/10

2000 (Age 56) - Snow Day ⭐ 5.1/10

2006 (Age 62) - Zoom ⭐ 4.3/10

2010 (Age 66) - Hot Tub Time Machine ⭐ 6.3/10

2015 (Age 71) - Vacation (Cameo) ⭐ 6.2/10

Later Career & Legacy

While Chase dominated the comedy film scene in the ‘80s and ‘90s, his career slowed in the 2000s. He made a comeback as Pierce Hawthorne in Community (2009-2014), introducing himself to a new generation of fans. Despite controversies surrounding his on-set behavior, his legacy as one of the most influential comedic actors of his era remains intact.

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About the Author

Kate Holtz is senior editor and staff writer for Massive Action Media. Born in Miami, Florida, she earned her bachelor's degree in journalism from Miami Dade College before relocating to Los Angeles. With over 20 years of experience, Kate covers music, film, celebrity lifestyle, action sports, and more.

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