Russ Griswold is the character played by Johnny Galecki in the 1989 comedy film "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation". Russ is Clark Griswold's cousin who comes to stay with the family during the holiday season. Russ is often portrayed as a laid-back and easygoing guy who doesn't take things too seriously, but he also has a few quirks and insecurities that make him endearing and relatable. Russ is known for his laid-back attitude, love of music and women, and his often misguided attempts to impress his family with his "coolness."