Beverly D'Angelo admits to unscripted ‘Christmas Vacation’ moment with Chevy Chase that made movie history

December 25, 2025

Beverly D'Angelo's Unscripted Moment in 'Christmas Vacation': A Legacy of Improvisation

In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, actress Beverly D’Angelo revealed that her iconic role as Ellen Griswold in the 1989 holiday classic "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" was not without its unscripted moments. In a scene where the family is held at gunpoint by police officers, it was D'Angelo who improvised the line, "I’ll guard the family jewels," which has since become an iconic part of the film's legacy.

The movie, directed by Jeremiah Chechik and based on a story by John Hughes, follows the Griswold family as they navigate their way through the holiday season with all its chaos and mishaps. The film starred D’Angelo alongside Chevy Chase, Randy Quaid, Juliette Lewis, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, among others.

In an era where improvisation has become a staple in modern cinema, it's fascinating to see how these unscripted moments can leave such a lasting impact on the film industry. D’Angelo's impromptu line not only added humor and depth to her character but also contributed to the overall success of the movie.

The legacy of "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" continues to grow, with fans still enjoying the film as a holiday tradition each year. D’Angelo's revelation about her unscripted moment adds another layer of appreciation for this classic comedy. It serves as a reminder that sometimes it is these spontaneous moments that make movies memorable and beloved by generations to come.

As we look back at the history of cinema, it becomes clear that improvisation has played an essential role in shaping some of our favorite films. From Jack Nicholson's iconic "Here’s Johnny" scene in "The Shining" (1980) to Jim Carrey's famous "I’m not crazy!" line from "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective" (1994), these unscripted moments have become ingrained in popular culture.

In conclusion, Beverly D'Angelo's revelation about her improvised moment in "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" highlights the power of spontaneity in filmmaking. It serves as a reminder that sometimes it is these unscripted moments that make movies memorable and beloved by generations to come. As we continue to enjoy this holiday classic, let us appreciate the talent behind the scenes who contribute their unique touches to create timeless cinematic experiences.

Source: [Original Article](https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/beverly-dangelo-admits-unscripted-christmas-vacation-moment-chevy-chase-made-movie-history) #beverly

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