Josh Brolin Credits Stepmom Barbra Streisand with Supporting His Sobriety

Josh Brolin Opens Up About Barbra Streisand’s Role in His Sobriety Journey

In a heartfelt revelation, Josh Brolin has expressed his gratitude toward his stepmother, Barbra Streisand, for her pivotal role in his journey to sobriety. The actor, known for his roles in films like Dune and The Goonies, discussed this topic during a recent appearance on The Howard Stern Show on November 18.

Brolin, who has been sober since 2013, recounted a memorable interaction with Streisand, who challenged him when he asked for a glass of red wine. She bluntly questioned, “But aren’t you a drunk?” This directness, Brolin acknowledged, was something he appreciated deeply. He revealed that Streisand’s straightforwardness often reminded him of a healthier version of his own mother.

Reflecting on his difficult past, Brolin shared insights from his upcoming memoir, From Under the Truck. He admitted to a lifelong struggle with alcohol, describing his upbringing in a household where drinking was normalized. He articulated, “I was born to drink. I was birthed to drink.” This pattern began at a young age, escalating through his teenage years into a serious battle with addiction.

Brolin fondly described Streisand’s motherly approach, noting, “She’s like, ‘Why would you drink? You’re an alcoholic.’” He found value in her honesty, despite his initial resistance. It took time, he admitted, but he eventually embraced her frankness as a form of tough love.

The dynamics between Brolin and Streisand weren’t always smooth. He conveyed that they had their fair share of disagreements over the years. However, he now sees those exchanges as essential in shaping his accountability and self-awareness.

On the topic of parenting, Brolin also discussed the transformation in his life since he got sober. He has two older children, Trevor and Eden, from his first marriage, and two younger daughters, Westlyn and Chapel, with his current wife, Kathryn Boyd. When asked about the differences in parenting styles between his older and younger children, he candidly stated, “Alcohol. I mean, that’s just the truth.”

Brolin’s path to sobriety was punctuated by a moment of clarity he experienced at his grandmother’s deathbed. After reflecting on his life during a particularly troublesome period, he made a commitment to stop drinking, recognizing that it was time for change.

This revelation about his stepmother’s influence not only sheds light on Brolin’s personal struggles but also highlights the importance of honesty and support in overcoming addiction. As he prepares for the release of his memoir, it’s clear that Brolin’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and the enduring impact of family ties on our lives.