In a recent revelation, Juliette Lewis shared behind-the-scenes details about the filming of the beloved holiday classic, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, particularly focusing on one of its most chaotic moments involving a squirrel. During a fan event at Fan Expo Chicago, Lewis, who portrayed Audrey Griswold, recounted the challenges of filming the scene where Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, discovers a squirrel in his Christmas tree.
The scene is memorable for its blend of comedy and chaos, as the squirrel leaps from the tree, creating pandemonium in the Griswold household. Lewis noted that the filming of this particular scene stretched over three days. However, she was not privy to a tragic detail regarding the original squirrel used in the scene—until now. Beverly D’Angelo, who played Ellen Griswold, informed Lewis that the trained squirrel had sadly died of a heart attack during production.
D’Angelo elaborated on the incident, explaining the challenges faced by the crew once the original squirrel was no longer available. To complete the scene, they had to substitute with an untrained squirrel and even made use of a stuffed animal for certain shots, especially during moments when the critter was seen clinging to Clark’s back. “I’ve destroyed the magic,” D’Angelo quipped, reflecting on the revelation and the bittersweet nature of the filming experience.
The film, which first premiered in 1989, has since become a staple of holiday television, with its portrayal of the Griswold family’s hilariously disastrous attempt at achieving a picture-perfect Christmas. The blend of heartfelt moments and family chaos has contributed to its lasting appeal, even as fans learn of the poignant realities behind some scenes.
Lewis expressed her sadness upon hearing the story, demonstrating the emotional connection cast members still have with the film and its sensibilities. Despite the drama behind the scenes, the movie remains cherished, underscoring how even tragic events can be intertwined with moments of joy and humor.
