You probably know Woody Harrelson as the Emmy-winning actor who has starred in many movies and TV shows, such as Cheers, True Detective, Zombieland, and The Hunger Games. But did you know that he has a brother who is also an actor? His name is Brett Harrelson, and he has appeared in films like The People vs. Larry Flynt, Strangeland, and From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money. But what is the relationship between the Harrelson brothers, and what is their family background? Here are some facts you may not know about Brett and Woody Harrelson.
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They Have a Criminal Father
According to Wikipedia, Brett and Woody Harrelson were born in Midland, Texas, to Diane Lou (née Oswald) and Charles Voyde Harrelson. Their parents divorced in 1964, and they have another brother named Jordan. Their father was a contract killer who was arrested for the killing of Judge John H. Wood Jr. by rifle fire in 1979 in San Antonio. He was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment, and he died in 2007. He also claimed to have been involved in the assassination of John F. Kennedy, but there is no evidence to support his claim.
They Grew Up Separately
After their parents’ divorce, Brett and Woody Harrelson moved with their mother to her native city, Lebanon, Ohio, where they were raised. Brett dropped out of high school at 17 and joined the United States Army, spending two years in Germany. He then returned to Lebanon and worked as a legal clerk. Woody graduated from high school and went on to study theater at Hanover College in Indiana.
They Reunited in California
When Brett was 22, he followed his brother Woody to California, hoping to pursue an acting career. However, he did not find much success at first, and he gave up acting for a while to become a motorcycle racer. He later became Woody’s assistant and resumed his acting ambitions. He got his first film role in 1996 as Younger Highway Patrol Officer in Sunchaser. He also played Jimmy Flynt, the brother of porn mogul Larry Flynt, alongside Woody who played the titular role in The People vs. Larry Flynt.
They Have Different Career Paths
While Woody Harrelson has become a household name with his versatile and acclaimed performances in various genres and mediums, Brett Harrelson has not achieved the same level of fame or recognition. He has mostly appeared in supporting or minor roles in films and TV shows, such as Dante’s View, Inferno, Go Further, A Mom for Christmas, and more. He has also done some TV ads for “Harrelson’s Own CBD”, a cannabis product endorsed by his brother.
They Have Collaborated on a Podcast
In 2020, Brett Harrelson co-produced Son of a Hitman, a podcast series that explores the life and crimes of his father Charles Harrelson. The podcast features interviews with former lovers, witnesses, FBI agents, lawyers, journalists, and family members who were involved or affected by Charles Harrelson’s actions. The podcast also reveals some new information and insights about the hitman’s motives, connections, trials, and legacy.
They Are Still Close
Despite their different experiences and lifestyles, Brett and Woody Harrelson are still close brothers who support each other. Brett has said that he admires his brother’s talent and success, and that he is proud of him. Woody has also expressed his love and respect for his brother, and has helped him with his career and personal issues. The brothers have also attended several events together, such as premieres, award shows, and charity functions.
Is Brett Harrelson related to Woody? The answer is yes. They are brothers who share a bond that goes beyond blood. They are also survivors of a turbulent family history that shaped their personalities and choices. They are both actors who have followed their passions and dreams. And they are both storytellers who have shared their stories with the world.
