Josh Brolin Reflects on Friendship with Donald Trump Before New Film

In a recent interview with The Independent, actor Josh Brolin shared insights about his friendship with former President Donald Trump, touching on their history prior to Trump’s presidency. This conversation comes ahead of the anticipated Netflix release of Knives Out 3, officially titled Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, set to premiere on December 12, 2025.

Brolin, known for his role in No Country For Old Men, portrays Monsignor Wicks, a character reminiscent of a cult leader. While some critics draw parallels between Wicks and Trump, Brolin clarified that his portrayal was not inspired by the former president. “I could make something up and say it was rooted in a kind of Trumpian greed,” he explained. “Wicks garners a sense of power, then there are no boundaries.”

Reflecting on his past interactions with Trump, Brolin remarked, “I’m not scared of Trump, because even though he says he’s staying forever, it’s just not going to happen.” He expressed a sense of familiarity with the man he knew before Trump became a political figure, describing him as a builder and entrepreneur. Their relationship began after Brolin appeared in Oliver Stone’s Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps.

Brolin acknowledged the complexities surrounding Trump’s business dealings, particularly mentioning the construction of a $400 million hotel in the late 1970s. “I’m sure there was a lot of corruption involved,” he stated, highlighting the evolving nature of power in Trump’s current political landscape. “Now it’s power unmitigated, it’s unregulated,” he added.

The actor also commented on Trump’s prowess in marketing, saying, “There is no greater genius than him in marketing – he takes the weakness of the general population and fills it.” Brolin believes that many supporters view Trump as a “mascot,” reflecting a broader societal need for validation rather than a direct attachment to Trump himself.

As anticipation builds for Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, Brolin’s candid reflections on his relationship with Trump offer a glimpse into the complexities of celebrity connections with political figures. The film is expected to continue the franchise’s tradition of engaging storytelling, adding to the buzz surrounding its upcoming release.