Chevy Chase makes rare appearance at documentary launch

Chevy Chase made a rare public appearance on Thursday February 26, 2026 as he attended a screening of his documentary, I’m Chevy Chase… And You’re Not, at the 40th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival.

The 82-year-old comedy icon arrived at Savor Cinema in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in a wheelchair, joined by wife Jayni Chase and their daughter Cydney Chase for the special evening. The family posed together on the red carpet, marking a supportive and celebratory moment for the actor.

The documentary takes a candid look at Chevy’s decades-long career in Hollywood, from his breakout as one of the original cast members on Saturday Night Live in 1975 to his big-screen success in classics such as National Lampoon’s Vacation, Caddyshack and Fletch. Known for his sharp wit and physical comedy, Chevy became one of the defining comedic faces of the late 1970s and 1980s.

The comedy legend also has a reputation for being difficult to work with at times, as a small clip from his own documentary proves.

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In a trailer for I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not, director Marina Zenovich tells Chevy that she was just trying to “figure him out”. “It’s not going to be easy for you,” he responds. When Marina asks why, he says: “You’re not bright enough. How’s that?”

The documentary features interviews with Chevy and his family, as well as stars like Ryan Reynolds, Goldie Hawn, Martin Short and Saturday Night Live creator Lorne Michaels.

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The night wasn’t just about the documentary, however. Chevy was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award, a fitting tribute to a performer whose physical comedy – from his iconic “falls” to his deadpan delivery – has shaped the comedic landscape over the last 50 years.

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Though he has largely stepped back from acting in recent years, Chevy’s legacy remains firmly intact, with his new documentary offering fans a reflective portrait of a performer whose humour helped shape an era. 

With his family by his side, the evening served as both a tribute to his past and a reminder of the indelible mark he has left on entertainment.