Chevy Chase, the legendary comedian, has been married three times, with his longest and most enduring relationship being with his current wife, Jayni Chase. This article delves into his marriages, personal struggles, and the love story that has stood the test of time.
Chevy Chase, the iconic comedian known for his roles in Saturday Night Live and films like National Lampoon’s Vacation, has had a tumultuous personal life marked by three marriages. His journey through love and relationships reflects both his struggles and his enduring commitment to his current wife, Jayni Chase.
The Early Years: Suzanne Hewitt
Chevy Chase’s first marriage was to Suzanne Hewitt in 1973. The couple’s relationship was short-lived, ending in 1976. Chase has rarely spoken about this marriage, but he has attributed its breakdown to infidelity. In the biography I’m Chevy Chase… and You’re Not, Chase stated, “She had an affair and simply left. That was the end of that.” Hewitt has remained silent about their marriage, leaving much of their story untold.
A Whirlwind Romance: Jacqueline Carlin
Following his divorce from Hewitt, Chase quickly moved on to actress Jacqueline Carlin. Their relationship was complicated by Carlin’s reluctance to move to New York City while Chase was working on Saturday Night Live. This led to Chase quitting the show midway through its second season in 1976 to be with Carlin. The couple married in December 1976 but divorced in 1980. Carlin later married twice more before her death from cancer in 2021.
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A Lasting Love: Jayni Chase
Chevy Chase’s most enduring relationship began in the early 1980s when he met Jayni Luke Chase on the set of the 1981 film Under the Rainbow. At the time, Chase was recovering from a near-fatal accident on the set of Modern Problems and struggling with severe depression. Jayni, who was working as a production coordinator, played a pivotal role in helping Chase turn his life around.
The couple married on June 19, 1982, and have been together ever since. They share three daughters: Cydney, Caley, and Emily. Jayni has been a steadfast supporter through Chase’s numerous controversies and health struggles, including his battle with cardiomyopathy in 2021. During this time, Chase was put into a medically-induced coma for eight days, and Jayni and their daughters were by his side throughout his recovery.
Jayni has publicly defended Chase, stating, “If Chevy says something, and you feel offended, it’s a little more on you than him. He takes risks. You can’t get where he got without being a risk taker. So, dial it back, get a sense of humor. He’s not an a**hole and neither are you.”
Health Struggles and Family Support
In 2021, Chevy Chase faced a life-threatening health crisis when he developed cardiomyopathy, a disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder for the heart to pump blood. He was hospitalized for five weeks and placed in a medically-induced coma. His family, including Jayni and their daughters, were warned by doctors to prepare for the worst. However, Chase made a remarkable recovery, much to the relief of his loved ones.
Chase’s daughter Caley recalled the moment her father showed signs of his old self during his recovery. When a nurse came in to adjust some medical equipment, Chase quipped, “That’s what she said,” a signature line from his comedic repertoire. This moment was a testament to his resilience and the unwavering support of his family.
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