Podcast Summary: "Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (Sometimes)"

Episode: Josh Brolin
Release Date: September 11, 2024

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of "Where Everybody Knows Your Name," hosts Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson reconnect with actor Josh Brolin. The trio delves deep into Josh's multifaceted life, exploring his illustrious career, personal struggles, and enduring friendships. This conversation offers listeners an intimate look beyond the silver screen, highlighting the human stories that shape who we are.

Career Highlights and Collaborations

Josh Brolin opens up about his extensive acting career, mentioning collaborations with renowned directors such as the Coen Brothers, Oliver Stone, Spike Lee, and Paul Thomas Anderson. He reflects on his role as Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, likening the character to Darth Vader in terms of iconic villainy.

Josh Brolin [02:30]: "His films have grossed over $6 billion worldwide. That's just irritating. No, sorry. I don't know why I said that. I'm not the jealous type."

He discusses his recent projects, including "Dune 2" and the Amazon Prime series "Outer Range," commending Josh's performance and encouraging listeners to watch the show.

Ted Danson [01:22]: "Mary and I were glued to the first season. It's an amazing, amazing show."

Working with Directors and Crafting Characters

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Josh's experiences working with directors like Oliver Stone. He shares insights into the creative process, emphasizing the importance of exploring the humanity and complexity of characters.

Josh Brolin [07:02]: "I never understood that thing about, like, staying character and staying until that. And you're like, you don't want. You don't want to talk to anybody. You don't want to. You just want to stay in that zone."

Josh recounts the challenges of perfecting accents, highlighting his dedication to authenticity in roles such as Agent K in "Men in Black 3."

Josh Brolin [08:28]: "It's an impossible accent. It's literally the most insane, schizophrenic, Ly created and structured accent."

Personal Stories and Family Influence

Josh shares heartfelt anecdotes about his upbringing, particularly the profound influence of his mother. He narrates a harrowing story where his mother intervenes during a dangerous encounter with a lion, showcasing her fearless and compassionate nature.

Josh Brolin [39:01]: "And then the lion slowly lifted his mouth or opened his mouth and then moved back to where he was. Get me out of here."

He also touches on his father's absence and the chaotic yet loving environment fostered by his mother's dedication to animal welfare.

Josh Brolin [42:34]: "There was one of those. When you get your kids, you know, you want them to like a normal, like you as a parent or you, you know, you get out in there and you're like, you know, pick up the hay or go feed the dog."

Sobriety and Personal Growth

A poignant segment of the episode focuses on Josh's journey to sobriety. He reflects on the turning point that led him to reassess his life and make significant changes.

Josh Brolin [22:42]: "I said, if this woman could get through 99 years on her. On life's terms."

Josh discusses the challenges of maintaining sobriety, especially in social settings, and how this transformation has positively impacted his relationships and personal well-being.

Josh Brolin [23:43]: "I'm the guy when we're writing, when I'm with a group of guys or a group of new guys riding our choppers... that feeling to me is everything."

Friendship with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson

The camaraderie between Josh, Ted, and Woody is palpable throughout the conversation. They reminisce about their time together on "Cheers" and the enduring bond that has persisted despite their busy careers.

Ted Danson [46:28]: "We were... it'd be lovely. It was wonderful. But never really got to hang like this."

Josh emphasizes the importance of these relationships, highlighting how their shared experiences have fostered deep connections.

Josh Brolin [47:34]: "So this is a bleed over from working together in that thing that we talked about, about how you get so close with people."

Reflections on the Past and Legacy

Josh reflects on his father's legacy, grappling with the shadow it cast over his own career. He shares experiences of overcoming initial rejections due to nepotism and carving out his unique path in the acting world.

Josh Brolin [33:43]: "I remember there were Cat. That was one time or two times it was a casting director that said, oh, you want it? I walked in and I had, you know, a couple monologues that I had learned. And she said, like, I don't remember who it was, but she said, so you want to be an actor, huh?"

He also pays tribute to mentors like Anthony Zerby, who played a pivotal role in his early development as an actor.

Josh Brolin [35:12]: "He was somebody who... was probably the best thing that ever happened to me."

Creative Pursuits Beyond Acting

Beyond his acting career, Josh discusses his passion for writing. He mentions recently selling a book to Harper Collins, filled with stories and prose poems, many centered around his mother's impactful life.

Josh Brolin [37:01]: "I just sold this book. I just wrote this book. I just sold it to Harper Collins, and it's not published yet."

He credits his mother for instilling in him the ability to express himself openly, allowing him to channel his experiences into his writing.

Josh Brolin [37:01]: "She gave something to me that allows me to open the pores of whatever filters exist. And I'm really grateful to her for that."

Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

As the episode draws to a close, Josh expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with Ted and Woody. He highlights the joy of sharing stories and rekindling friendships that have stood the test of time.

Josh Brolin [54:52]: "But it, man, it is a crazy, fun life. And that's what was super interesting to me when you called or when you texted me and I said, there's no reason to do this. And I... I'm in."

Ted and Woody reciprocate this sentiment, celebrating the bond they share with Josh and the importance of maintaining these meaningful relationships.

Woody Harrelson [54:51]: "It fills me with joy to see you, man."

Ted Danson [54:51]: "Thank you for doing this."

Conclusion

This episode serves as a profound exploration of Josh Brolin's life, intertwining his professional achievements with personal triumphs and tribulations. Through candid conversations and touching anecdotes, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the man behind the roles, his resilience, and the enduring power of friendship.

Notable Quotes:

• Josh Brolin [22:42]: "I said, if this woman could get through 99 years on her. On life's terms."

• Woody Harrelson [54:51]: "It fills me with joy to see you, man."

• Ted Danson [54:51]: "Thank you for doing this."

Key Takeaways:

1. Resilience and Personal Growth: Josh's journey to sobriety highlights the transformative power of self-awareness and the importance of confronting one's past to build a better future.

2. The Importance of Mentorship: Mentors like Anthony Zerby play a crucial role in shaping an actor's craft and fostering a love for the arts.

3. Enduring Friendships: The bond between Josh, Ted, and Woody underscores the significance of maintaining deep, meaningful relationships amidst the chaos of the entertainment industry.

4. Legacy and Identity: Navigating the shadow of a famous parent taught Josh the value of carving out his unique identity and the challenges that come with it.

5. Creative Expression: Josh's passion for writing serves as a therapeutic outlet, allowing him to process his experiences and share his stories with the world.

For Listeners:
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