Chevy Chase’s 14 Highest-Grossing Movies – Adjusted for Inflation
Chevy Chase was one of the biggest comedy stars of the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, known for his sarcastic wit, slapstick timing, and iconic roles in SNL, Vacation, and beyond. But which of his films were the biggest box office draws? Here’s the countdown of his 14 highest-grossing movies, adjusted for 2025.
14) Fletch Lives (1989)
Chevy returned as investigative reporter Irwin “Fletch” Fletcher in this sequel packed with disguises, wisecracks, and Southern Gothic twists. While not as beloved as the first, it still showed off Chase’s sarcastic charm.
Worldwide gross in 1989: $33,266,859
Adjusted for 2025: $86,019,397
13) Modern Problems (1981)
Playing a man who gains telekinetic powers after a freak accident, Chase leaned into slapstick and absurdity in this quirky comedy. It remains one of his strangest, but still a fan favorite.
Worldwide gross in 1981: $24,474,312
Adjusted for 2025: $86,328,241
12) Seems Like Old Times (1980)
As a writer wrongly accused of robbery, Chase teamed up with Goldie Hawn and Charles Grodin in this Neil Simon-penned rom-com. It showcased his more romantic side with plenty of screwball laughs.
Worldwide gross in 1980: $23,200,000
Adjusted for 2025: $90,274,908
11) Hot Tub Time Machine (2010)
In a wild cameo, Chase played the mysterious hot tub repairman whose cryptic advice helps the time-traveling crew. A goofy supporting role that added to the film’s cult comedy vibe.
Worldwide gross in 2010: $65,967,750
Adjusted for 2025: $96,980,024
10) Three Amigos! (1986)
Alongside Steve Martin and Martin Short, Chase was one of the hapless actors mistaken for real heroes in Mexico. With slapstick antics and mariachi outfits, it has become a cult classic.
Worldwide gross in 1986: $39,246,734
Adjusted for 2025: $114,815,164
9) Snow Day (2000)
As Tom Brandston, Chase played a weatherman whose kids scheme for the perfect snow day. A family-friendly comedy that connected with younger audiences.
Worldwide gross in 2000: $62,452,927
Adjusted for 2025: $116,285,598
8) Vacation (2015)
Chevy reprised his role as Clark Griswold in a cameo for this modern reboot, passing the torch (and plenty of Griswold chaos) to Ed Helms.
Worldwide gross in 2015: $102,306,500
Adjusted for 2025: $138,398,063
7) Fletch (1985)
As undercover reporter Fletch, Chase delivered one of his most iconic roles — a wisecracking master of disguise digging into corruption. A mix of noir and comedy that remains one of his defining films.
Worldwide gross in 1985: $46,700,000
Adjusted for 2025: $139,158,869
6) National Lampoon’s European Vacation (1985)
Clark Griswold takes his family to Europe, where chaos (and cultural misunderstandings) ensue. While not the most beloved entry, it still delivered plenty of laughs and box office returns.
Worldwide gross in 1985: $49,400,000
Adjusted for 2025: $147,204,457
5) Caddyshack (1980)
As the laid-back golfer Ty Webb, Chase brought cool comic timing to one of the most legendary sports comedies ever made. With Bill Murray and Rodney Dangerfield, it became a cultural touchstone.
Worldwide gross in 1980: $39,849,764
Adjusted for 2025: $155,061,801
4) Spies Like Us (1985)
Teaming up with Dan Aykroyd, Chase starred as an inept spy in this Cold War-era comedy. Slapstick, satire, and silliness made it a global hit.
Worldwide gross in 1985: $59,526,202
Adjusted for 2025: $177,378,993
3) National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
In perhaps his most beloved role, Chase returned as Clark Griswold determined to deliver the perfect family Christmas. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a holiday classic that still plays every December.
Worldwide gross in 1989: $71,834,046
Adjusted for 2025: $185,744,056
2) National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)
The movie that started it all: Chase’s Clark Griswold drags his family cross-country to Wally World. Road trip disasters, crude humor, and heartfelt moments made it an instant comedy classic.
Worldwide gross in 1983: $61,400,000
Adjusted for 2025: $197,658,418
1) Foul Play (1978)
In this Hitchcock-inspired comedy-thriller, Chase starred opposite Goldie Hawn as an undercover cop wrapped up in a mystery. It became his first major box office smash, launching his movie career.
Worldwide gross in 1978: $40,415,179
Adjusted for 2025: $198,748,195
Whether it’s as Clark Griswold, Fletch, or Ty Webb, Chevy Chase built a career on sarcasm, slapstick, and chaotic charm — and the box office proves audiences loved every minute.
