Sibling Revelry with Kate Hudson and Oliver Hudson: A Raising Helen Reunion with Abigail & Spencer Breslin

Released on June 9, 2025 by iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of Sibling Revelry, hosts Kate Hudson and Oliver Hudson welcome guests Abigail Breslin and Spencer Breslin for a reunion discussion centered around their shared experiences working together on the iconic film Raising Helen. The conversation delves deep into their sibling bond, childhood in New York, early acting careers, personal challenges, and individual growth over the years.

Early Lives and Birthplaces

Abigail and Spencer begin by sharing their birthplaces and early family dynamics. Both siblings were born in New York City, with Abigail at NYU Hospital and Spencer at Beth Israel. Oliver Hudson adds a nostalgic touch by comparing Spencer's birthplace to the iconic building from the TV show Friends.

• Spencer Breslin: "We were born in New York... My mom went to all the different hospitals for all three of us." ([04:05])

Childhood in New York and Early Acting Careers

Growing up in the bustling environment of New York City, the siblings recount their upbringing and introduction to acting. Spencer shares his early start in commercials at the age of three, highlighting how talent scouts frequented local playgrounds to discover the next big child star.

• Spencer Breslin: "I started doing commercials just... an indoor playground in Manhattan... talent scouts would approach parents and say, 'Oh, your child is really adorable.'" ([07:26])

Abigail reminisces about working on the set of Scream Queens with Kate Hudson, humorously noting her own lack of abs during filming.

• Kate Hudson: "I don't have any abs on Scream Queens. That was quite the set." ([03:22])

Working Together on Movies

Their collaboration on Raising Helen marked a significant moment in their careers and sibling relationship. The siblings discuss memorable moments from the set, including challenges faced by Spencer during filming and the supportive role Kate played when he was ill.

• Oliver Hudson: "We did a lot in LA and New York. I remember Kate took Spencer to FAO Schwartz when he was sick." ([10:14])

Abigail fondly recalls Spencer’s dedication to his role, particularly a scene where he had to handle a dramatic moment with a Singapore Sling drink order.

• Abigail Breslin: "Spencer was so committed, even when he was sick, he made sure he did a good job." ([09:12])

Experiences of Recognition and Socialization

The group discusses the duality of fame and childhood. While Spencer enjoyed being on set and thriving in commercials, Oliver shares unsettling encounters with overly enthusiastic fans that made his youth challenging.

• Oliver Hudson: "People would literally pick me up and say things like 'Your movie changed my life.'" ([29:46])

Spencer contrasts this with experiences like getting an autograph at an Outback Steakhouse while managing the pressures of fame.

• Spencer Breslin: "I had someone ask for an autograph while I was at the urinal at Outback Steakhouse. I was like, 'Can you wait until my hands are free?'" ([30:11])

Sobriety Journey of Spencer Breslin

A pivotal moment in the episode is Spencer’s candid discussion about his struggles with alcohol and his path to sobriety. He opens up about the reasons that led him to seek help, including the passing of his father, and the transformative impact sobriety has had on his life.

• Spencer Breslin: "I was drinking about two bottles of vodka a day... Cutting that out gave me a boost in mental fitness." ([39:05])

He describes the challenges he faced, such as disrupted sleep patterns and emotional roller coasters, but emphasizes the positive changes, including improved mental clarity and healthier relationships.

• Spencer Breslin: "My life's gotten a lot better. I don't need to wake up feeling miserable or worry about the things I did last night." ([33:17])

Oliver Hudson expresses pride and relief over Spencer’s progress, highlighting the supportive family dynamic.

• Oliver Hudson: "He's been such a badass in his journey. We're very proud of him." ([34:18])

Music Careers of Spencer and Oliver Hudson

Transitioning from acting, Spencer and Oliver share their passion for music. Spencer talks about his early days playing in bands and his current endeavors, while Oliver discusses his own musical projects under the artist name "Sophomore."

• Spencer Breslin: "I started playing in dumb bands when I was 13, doing punk covers and original songs." ([45:03])

• Oliver Hudson: "I'm working on my album and releasing music on Spotify under the name Sophomore." ([44:57])

Abigail expresses excitement about their musical pursuits, encouraging listeners to support their work.

• Abigail Breslin: "I love hearing that you guys are doing this. I'm gonna listen immediately." ([47:31])

Relationship Insights

The episode concludes with a thoughtful segment where the siblings reflect on each other’s strengths and areas for growth. They share what they admire about one another and touch upon ways they wish to support each other further.

• Oliver Hudson: "I wish I had Spencer's resilience... and I wish he could see how amazing he already is." ([48:40])

• Spencer Breslin: "Abby is great at bringing people together and hosting good parties." ([49:16])

They also share light-hearted moments, recalling funny scenes from their past projects, such as struggles with particular lines in Scream Queens.

• Spencer Breslin: "You couldn’t not say 'macabre' on cue." ([50:24])

Conclusion

This reunion episode of Sibling Revelry offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of the Hudson and Breslin siblings. From navigating early fame and family dynamics to overcoming personal challenges and pursuing creative passions, their conversation underscores the enduring strength of sibling bonds and the journey toward self-improvement and fulfillment.

Notable Quotes

• Spencer Breslin ([07:26]): "Talent scouts would approach parents and say, 'Oh, your child is really adorable.'"

• Kate Hudson ([03:22]): "I don't have any abs on Scream Queens. That was quite the set."

• Spencer Breslin ([39:05]): "I was drinking about two bottles of vodka a day... Cutting that out gave me a boost in mental fitness."

• Oliver Hudson ([34:18]): "He's been such a badass in his journey. We're very proud of him."

• Spencer Breslin ([48:40]): "Abby is great at bringing people together and hosting good parties."

Final Thoughts

For listeners who haven’t tuned into this episode, Sibling Revelry delivers a compelling narrative of growth, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of family. The authentic dialogue and shared experiences make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamics of sibling relationships and the personal journeys that shape us.