Cornelius Crane “Chevy” Chase, born October 8, 1943, is an American comedian, actor, and writer renowned for his role in the initial season of “Saturday Night Live” (1975–1976), particularly for his “Weekend Update” segment. Winning two Primetime Emmys, he left SNL early to pursue film, starring in hits like “Foul Play,” “Caddyshack,” and the “National Lampoon’s Vacation” series.
Chevy also hosted the Academy Awards twice and had a brief stint with his late-night talk show, “The Chevy Chase Show” (1993). He saw a career resurgence with NBC’s “Community” (2009–2014), playing Pierce Hawthorne.
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Chevy Chase Net Worth
Chevy Chase has a net worth of $50 million, having earned significant sums for films like “Christmas Vacation” ($6 million) and “Memoirs of an Invisible Man” ($6 million), among others.
From 1990 to 2005, Chevy and his wife Jayni lived in a 5-acre estate in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, where they spent $1.2 million on renovations. They attempted to sell the property in 1994 for $3 million but only succeeded in 2005. Today, Chevy and Jayni primarily reside in upstate New York.
Early Life
Born Cornelius Crane Chase in New York City, Chevy Chase hails from a family with artistic roots, including his mother, a concert pianist and librettist, and his great-uncle, painter Frank Swift Chase. After his parents divorced when he was four, Chevy navigated a childhood of family changes, including his father’s remarriage into the Folgers coffee dynasty.
He graduated from Bard College in 1967 with a BA in English. Before his entertainment career took off, Chevy worked various jobs such as cab and truck driving, construction, and as a theater usher, demonstrating a diverse early work history.
Career
Chevy Chase launched his career with the comedy ensemble Channel One in 1967 and later joined “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) in 1975, popularizing the “Weekend Update” segment. He left SNL in 1976 to pursue film, starring in hits like “Caddyshack” and the “National Lampoon’s Vacation” series.
Despite some flops in the 1990s, he continued acting in films and TV, including a notable stint on “Community” from 2009 to 2012. Chase has won several awards, including two Primetime Emmys, and received accolades like a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1993 and the Harvard Lampoon‘s Lifetime Achievement Award in 1996.
Personal life
Chevy Chase married Susan Hewitt in February 1973, but they divorced in 1976. He then married Jacqueline Carlin later that year, but their marriage ended in 1980. In 1982, Chase married Jayni Luke, with whom he has three daughters. He also has a son named Bryan Perkins with another woman.
Chevy has faced health challenges related to addiction; he was treated at the Betty Ford Clinic in 1986 for a prescription painkiller addiction and sought help for alcoholism at the Hazelden Clinic in 2016. His personal and professional life has been marked by both his talent and his struggles.
Did Chevy Chase come from a wealthy family?
Chevy belonged to an affluent background, with his mother being a plumbing heiress and his grandfather inheriting the Crane Valve Co. However, it’s worth noting that Chase’s grandfather left the family fortune to his second wife, leaving the family without the inheritance.
Conclusion
Chevy Chase’s journey from SNL to achieving Hollywood stardom is truly an inspiring tale. With a net worth reflecting his enormous contribution to the world of comedy and cinema, Chevy remains an icon and an inspiration for many aspiring actors and comedians.
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FAQs about Chevy Chase’s Net Worth
- What is Chevy Chase’s most iconic role?
- While he has played numerous memorable roles, Chevy is perhaps most known for his character Clark W. Griswold from the “National Lampoon’s Vacation” series.
- Has Chevy Chase received any awards for his work?
- Yes, Chevy has been honored with multiple awards, including two Primetime Emmy Awards for his work on Saturday Night Live.
- What is Chevy Chase’s latest project?
- As of now, Chevy Chase has made various appearances in films and television shows, but specifics about his latest projects can vary over time.
- Has Chevy Chase directed any films?
- While Chevy is primarily known for his acting, he has also dabbled in direction and writing.
- Is Chevy Chase active on social media?
- Yes, Chevy Chase frequently engages with fans and shares updates through platforms like Twitter and Instagram.
