Cornelius Crane Chase, professionally known as Chevy Chase, was born on October 8, 1943, in the vibrant neighborhood of Lower Manhattan, New York. His mother, Cathalene Parker (Browning),was a gifted concert pianist and librettist, while his father, Edward Tinsley "Ned" Chase, was an editor and writer. Both parents hailed from esteemed families, with Chase's grandfathers being the renowned artist and illustrator Edward Leigh Chase and Admiral Miles Browning. His ancestry is a rich tapestry of English, Scottish, Irish, and German heritage.
Chase's grandmother bestowed upon him the affectionate nickname "Chevy" when he was just two years old. This charming moniker would eventually become synonymous with his illustrious career in the entertainment industry. As a talented young comedian, Chase joined the esteemed cast of Saturday Night Live in 1975, a position he held until 1976. This remarkable stint laid the groundwork for his subsequent success in the world of film.
The 1980s proved to be a golden era for Chase, with a string of box office hits that showcased his unique brand of deadpan comedy. Notable films from this period include the iconic Caddyshack (1980),National Lampoon's Vacation (1983) and its sequels, Fletch (1985),and Fletch Lives (1989). Unfortunately, Chase's career began to experience a decline in the 1990s, with films like Memoirs of an Invisible Man (1992) and Cops and Robbersons (1994) failing to recapture the magic of his earlier work.
However, Chase's fortunes took a turn for the better in the 2000s, with his recurring role on the popular television series Community (2009). He played a regular character for the show's first four seasons, marking a welcome return to the spotlight for the beloved comedian. Throughout his extensive career, Chase has consistently demonstrated his impressive range and versatility as a comedic performer.
