Early Life and Education of Chevy Chase: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Chevy Chase, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Chevy Chase, born Cornelius Crane Chase, is a celebrated American comedian, actor, and writer. His career took off as a cast member on the inaugural season of Saturday Night Live (1975–1976). Chase's 'Weekend Update' segment became a popular feature, solidifying his status as a breakout star. His contributions as a performer and writer on SNL earned him two Primetime Emmy Awards from four nominations, highlighting his comedic talent and influence on the show.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1919: Birth of Edward Tinsley "Ned" Chase

In 1919, Edward Tinsley "Ned" Chase, Chevy Chase's father, was born.

1923: Birth of Cathalene Parker

In 1923, Cathalene Parker, Chevy Chase's mother, was born.

October 8, 1943: Chevy Chase's Birth

On October 8, 1943, Cornelius Crane "Chevy" Chase was born. He would later become a famous comedian, actor, and writer.

1962: Graduation as Valedictorian

In 1962, Chevy Chase graduated as valedictorian from the Stockbridge School.

1963: Attendance at Haverford College

During the 1962-1963 term, Chevy Chase attended Haverford College, where he was noted for his slapstick comedy.

1967: Graduation from Bard College

In 1967, Chevy Chase graduated from Bard College with a Bachelor of Arts in English.

February 23, 1973: Marriage to Susan Hewitt

On February 23, 1973, Chevy Chase married Susan Hewitt in New York City.

February 1, 1976: Divorce from Susan Hewitt

On February 1, 1976, Chevy Chase and Susan Hewitt divorced.

December 4, 1976: Marriage to Jacqueline Carlin

On December 4, 1976, Chevy Chase married Jacqueline Carlin.

1976: Departure from SNL

In 1976, Chevy Chase departed from Saturday Night Live as a full-time cast member, later returning as a host, where a fistfight with Bill Murray occurred.

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1978: Fistfight with Bill Murray

In 1978, while filming Saturday Night Live, Chevy Chase had a fistfight with Bill Murray in John Belushi's dressing room.

November 14, 1980: Divorce from Jacqueline Carlin

On November 14, 1980, Chevy Chase and Jacqueline Carlin divorced; they had no children together.

1980: Reconciliation with Bill Murray in Caddyshack

In 1980, Chase and Murray reconciled and starred together in Caddyshack.

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1980: Residence in Pacific Palisades Begins

In 1980, Chevy Chase began residing in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, in a Tudor-style home.

1980: Near-Death Electrocution

In 1980, Chevy Chase narrowly escaped death by electrocution during the filming of Modern Problems, leading to a period of deep depression.

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June 19, 1982: Marriage to Jayni Luke

On June 19, 1982, Chevy Chase married Jayni Luke in Pacific Palisades.

1982: Marriage to Jayni Luke

In 1982, Chevy Chase married Jayni Luke.

1986: Admission to Betty Ford Center

In 1986, Chevy Chase was admitted to the Betty Ford Center for treatment of prescription painkiller addiction.

1986: Honorary Mayor of Pacific Palisades

In 1986, Chevy Chase was named the Honorary Mayor of Pacific Palisades.

1988: End of Honorary Mayor Term

In 1988, Chevy Chase's term as the Honorary Mayor of Pacific Palisades ended.

January 1989: Appearance on The Pat Sajak Show

In January 1989, Chevy Chase appeared as the first guest on "The Pat Sajak Show" and claimed he avoided the military draft by falsely claiming "homosexual tendencies".

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1995: End of Pacific Palisades Residence

In 1995, Chevy Chase ended his residence in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles.

2003: Roommate Interview

In a 2003 interview, David Felsen, Chevy Chase's former roommate, asserted that Chase left Haverford College for academic reasons.

2004: Campaigning for John Kerry

In 2004, Chevy Chase campaigned for Democratic presidential nominee John Kerry.

2004: Controversial Speech at People for the American Way Benefit

In 2004, during a speech at a People for the American Way benefit, Chevy Chase made controversial remarks about then-President George W. Bush.

2005: Death of Both Parents

In 2005, both of Chevy Chase's parents passed away.

2007: Abuse Allegations in Biography

In a 2007 biography, Chevy Chase alleged that he was physically and psychologically abused as a child by his mother and stepfather.

2008: Endorsement of Hillary Clinton's Presidential Campaign

In 2008, Chevy Chase endorsed Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign.

2009: Today Show Interview

During a 2009 interview on the Today show, Chevy Chase ostensibly verified the urban legend that he was expelled for harboring a cow in his fourth floor room at Haverford College.

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