Beverly D’Angelo, 74, Might Have Had a More Successful Career Without Having Twins With Pacino at 49

Beverly D'Angelo remains an enduring figure in film history. The acclaimed actress first brought Ellen Griswold to life alongside Chevy Chases Clark W. Griswold in the original National Lampoon's Vacation in 1983. She reprised the beloved role in several sequels, including the holiday favorite National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation in 1989.

In a recent interview, D'Angelo discussed how her career path might have shifted if she had not welcomed twins, Anton and Olivia Pacino, with then-partner Al Pacino at the age of 49. Reflecting on raising children while in Hollywood, she stated, I did not raise my kids in that culture. If I would have been more focused, maybe I would have had a bigger career, but I was focused on my kids, to tell you the truth.

Last month, D'Angelo celebrated her 74th birthday. A photo shared on her Instagram Stories showed her being pampered by a makeup artist. She expressed heartfelt appreciation to fans, writing, Thank you to everyone who makes me feel the love today with such kind birthday wishes. GRATEFUL GRATEFUL GRATEFUL.

Holiday Appearances and Partnerships

This holiday season, D'Angelo returned to screens not only through classic Vacation reruns but also in a collaboration with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. In a statement, she shared, The holidays are full of joy, cheer, and, lets be honest, a little chaos. Everyones merry, everyones messy, and somehow, someone always ends up sleeping on the couch. Thats where Wyndham Rewards comes in. With more than 20 brands and thousands of hotels, its the simple way to stay close to familywithout being too close. A real bed, extra perks, and a little breathing room? Now thats how you brighten the season without tripping a breaker.

Her commercial drew inspiration from moments in Christmas Vacation to announce that all 120 million Wyndham Rewards members will receive a one-level status upgrade through December 31.

Christmas Vacation Reunion

Recently, the cast of Christmas Vacation reunited in Rhode Island for the Rhode Island Comic Con. Chevy Chase, Randy Quaid, Juliette Lewis, and D'Angelo delighted fans with their appearance. Social media was abuzz with excitement as fans and fellow actors, including Dan Levy and Marisol Nichols, expressed joy over the reunion, 36 years after the films original release.

This story was first published by Parade on Dec 1, 2025, in the News section.

Author: Sophia Brooks