Dennis Quaid may be an undeniable A-list actor with acclaimed films such as The Parent Trap and The Day After Tomorrow, and indie roles in lesser-known TV shows like Fortitude.
His brother, though?
What a wild ride — both on and off screen.
Randy Quaid was a cult icon back in the ’90s with hit comedies like Kingpin, where he played the lovable but dim-witted Ishmael Boorg alongside Bill Murray and Woody Harrelson. Fast forward to present day and he’s a hard guy to track down.
In years past, it’s been reported that he’s had multiple run-ins with the law, and he claimed he was being chased down by Hollywood’s “Star Whackers” as he and his wife sought asylum in Canada.
But that’s all in the rear-view mirror as the actor is set to take on a very different role, making a rare public appearance as a grand marshal in a popular beach getaway later in July.
Why Randy Quaid Makes Perfect Sense for ‘Christmas in July’ Event
(Photo by Barry Brecheisen/WireImage
Long before Kingpin fame, which still remains a favorite throwback comedy for many, Quaid had already carved out a name for himself outside the shadow of his brother, earning an Oscar nomination for his work in The Last Detail in 1973.
But what fans really remember him most for was his portrayal as Cousin Eddie in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, making him a seamless choice to serve as grand marshal for Ocean City, Maryland’s annual Night in Venice .
The Christmas-themed extravaganza kicks off July 25, 2026, after a special noon screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Diehard fans can purchase a VIP meet-and-greet package and score signed memorabilia, while others can attend his live Q&A at no extra charge.
Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian stated, “Night in Venice is one of Ocean City’s signature traditions, and we’re thrilled to welcome Randy Quaid to help us celebrate this year’s unique theme.”
He added, “His iconic role in one of America’s favorite holiday movies makes him the perfect grand marshal for a celebration that combines patriotism, Christmas spirit, and one of the country’s most spectacular boat s.”