Chevy Chase and Jayni Share the Secrets to Their 43-Year Marriage: What Keeps Their Love Strong

Chevy Chase and Jayni Chase on Feb. 16, 2025.
Credit: NBC/Jamie McCarthy/NBC via Getty

Chevy Chase Reflects on Love and Family in Recent Interview

Chevy Chase and his wife Jayni celebrated 43 years of marriage, with the comedian openly expressing his deep affection for her in a recent PEOPLE interview. He described Jayni as the most honest person he has ever met and affectionately called her the love of his life. The couple, who met on the set of the 1981 film Under the Rainbow, has shared a enduring bond since their marriage in 1982.

In the newly released CNN documentary I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not, Chase, 82, reveals both the highs and lows of his career while sharing insights about his personal life. He candidly discusses darker moments, including struggles with addiction, but predominantly highlights his enduring love for Jayni, who is now 67.

"She’s also the most beautiful. I love the smell of her neck," he shared. On a lighter note, he added, "When she’s doing dishes, I’ll say, ‘I’m coming, honey!’ and come kiss the back of her neck."

Jayni reciprocated these sentiments, noting, "He’s adorable. He’s hard to stay mad at. He’s also not Mr. Macho. I’m a strong woman, and I believe it takes a special man to be with a strong woman."

Chevy Chase, Jayni Chase, and their daughters Cydney and Caley circa mid 1980s.
Credit: Chevy Chase Instagram

The couple’s love story has been explored in various public discussions, including a 1990 Barbara Walters special where Jayni recounted the early days of their relationship. "He flirted with me and pursued me, but I didn’t take it seriously," she shared. It wasn’t until a moment of vulnerability that her perception changed, leading her to realize the depth of his character.

Additionally, Chase takes great pride in his role as a father and grandfather. He expressed, “It’s what I’m proudest of,” referencing his daughters Cydney, 43, Caley, 40, and Emily, 37, along with Emily’s daughter Ivy, who is now a year and a half old.

Reflecting on becoming a father, Chase recalled the moment he first held his daughter Cydney. "When Cyd came out, and I saw it was a girl, I was in love immediately," he said, adding that he felt a unique connection that stemmed from months of singing and speaking to her before birth.

Chevy Chase and Jayni Chase with their daughters Cydney, Caley, and Emily.
Credit: Chevy Chase Instagram

Chase, a talented musician with a background in a band that included future Steely Dan members, also emphasized the musical talents of his daughters, who all play the piano. He fondly remembered his father’s influence in his life, recalling how his dad’s humorous antics brought laughter to their family.

“He always made funny faces to make my brother and I laugh,” Chase said.

Now, as a grandfather, he finds joy in Ivy’s antics, stating, "And she’s only 1 1/2! It’s a great thing in life to laugh and to make people laugh. It relaxes people. It’s a release."

In summary, Chase’s reflections underscore the importance of family, love, and laughter in his life, echoing sentiments that will resonate with audiences as his story continues to unfold.