Juliette Lewis recently appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show, where she became emotional while discussing her role in the 1989 holiday classic, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. As one of her earliest roles, playing teenage Audrey Griswold alongside Chevy Chase, Lewis never imagined that the film would become so beloved by audiences.
Host Kelly Clarkson couldn’t help but bring up the movie, stating that her family would be disappointed if she didn’t mention it. Lewis responded with gratitude, saying, “How can I be mad at that?” When asked if she knew the film would become such a cherished classic, Lewis admitted that she had no idea and became teary-eyed at the thought of the movie’s enduring impact.
The Yellowjackets star shared that she is currently going through an emotional transitional period in her life, which has made her more appreciative of her experiences. She expressed her deep gratitude for being a part of the iconic holiday film, which has become an annual tradition for many families.
Lewis recounted stories of fans telling her that she feels like a part of their family and how the film has brought comfort to those who have experienced loss. The actress praised her costars Chevy Chase and Johnny Galecki for their support during the filming of Christmas Vacation.
Though Juliette Lewis portrayed Audrey Griswold in the third installment of the National Lampoon franchise, the character had previously been played by Dana Barron and Dana Hill in the first two films. Marisol Nichols and Leslie Mann went on to play Audrey in later sequels.
In 2019, Lewis reunited with her Christmas Vacation costars for a Q&A hosted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to celebrate the movie’s 30th anniversary. Her performance at just 15 years old was highly praised by her former castmates, with Diane Ladd calling Lewis “one of the great young actresses in this country.”
The emotional interview on The Kelly Clarkson Show serves as a testament to the enduring power of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and the special place it holds in the hearts of viewers. Juliette Lewis’s reflection on her early role shows just how meaningful and lasting the impact of a film can be.
