How Sobriety Transformed Josh Brolin's Approach to Parenting His Younger Children

Josh Brolin Explains Biggest Difference in Parenting His Kids

Courtesy of Josh Brolin/Instagram

Josh Brolin was asked about the biggest difference between parenting his two older kids and two younger kids. On the "SmartLess" podcast episode on Monday, March 4, he gave a candid answer. Brolin, 56, admitted that the biggest difference is alcohol. He emphasized, "I mean, that’s just the truth, man."

Brolin has two children, Trevor who is 35 and Eden who is 29, from his previous marriage to Alice Adair. He also has two daughters, Westlyn who is 5 and Chapel who is 3, with his current wife Kathryn Brolin whom he married in 2016.

He shared, "I feel comfortable sharing that my son is sober, my daughter is married to a sober man, and my wife is also sober."

After being questioned by cohost Jason Bateman about whether his family learned from his "mistakes," Dune actor Josh responded with a hopeful "Hopefully."

Josh mentioned that their family dynamic is one of openness, stating, "I think we were all pretty open. It’s a very open dialogue with us."

Josh Brolin Explains Biggest Difference in Parenting His Kids

Courtesy of Josh Brolin/Instagram

Josh checked into rehab in 2013. The next year, he openly discussed his decision to seek help.

In an interview with The Guardian, he shared, "It was a pivotal moment for me. I reflected on a lot of things - my mother's passing when I was in my 20s, and how it still affected me. I had always been very close to her. But I recognized that I was heading down a destructive path. I knew I needed to make a change and grow up. It was like I took a step back and saw my life from a different perspective."

Brolin marked his eighth year of sobriety in November 2021 with a heartfelt post shared on social media. He reflected on the journey and the positive impact it has had on his life.

In the post on Instagram, Brolin described sobriety as the feeling of getting into his truck for an early morning call and finding a card from his wife expressing gratitude for his decision to live sober. He also mentioned a collage board of his children, a creation that stemmed from that life-changing choice.

For Brolin, sobriety is also about the trust and admiration he sees in his children's eyes when they look at him. He believes that their unwavering trust is evident in their pupils and the way they carry themselves in his presence.

Josh was asked by cohost Sean Hayes if he can see any signs in his kids that they might repeat his past behavior. Josh responded that his behavior was so extreme that it served as a warning, rather than something to emulate.

If you or someone you know is dealing with substance abuse, reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Editor's P/S:

Josh Brolin's candid admission about the stark contrast in parenting his older and younger children due to his past alcohol struggles is a powerful testament to the transformative nature of recovery. His willingness to acknowledge the challenges he faced and the positive impact sobriety has had on his life is both inspiring and relatable.

Brolin's emphasis on open communication and the trust he has built with his children is particularly poignant. By sharing his own experiences and recognizing the warning signs in his own behavior, he has created a safe and supportive environment for his younger children. His story serves as a valuable reminder that recovery is not just about overcoming addiction but also about fostering healthy relationships and building a fulfilling life.