Josh Brolin Reexamines Past Friendship With Trump
In a recent interview, actor Josh Brolin revisited his past friendship with Donald Trump, reflecting on their relationship prior to Trump’s presidency. Brolin, known for his role in “Milk,” described Trump as a “genius” in marketing, noting that he experienced a different side of the influential figure during his earlier years in New York City.
Friendship with Trump
During his interview with The Independent, Brolin spoke about his character in the upcoming film “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.” He clarified that this character was not based on Trump, although he acknowledged the potential for a “Trumpian greed” interpretation. Brolin emphasized that he does not fear Trump, stating, “having been a friend of Trump before he was president, I know a different guy.”
Brolin’s Observations on Trump
Brolin shared his thoughts on various aspects of Trump’s career, including the Trump Hotel. He commented on the possible corruption surrounding its construction, describing the era when it was built as a time of “power unmitigated” and “unregulated.” He remarked on Trump’s ability to connect with the general public, saying, “There is no greater genius than him in marketing.”
According to Brolin, Trump has effectively filled a societal need for validation among many people. This observation highlights a complex dynamic between the former real estate mogul and his supporters.
Memorable Encounters
Brolin’s relationship with Trump dates back to 2010, after filming “Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps.” He recalls a peculiar dinner that included director Oliver Stone and actor Shia LaBeouf, where he experienced a memorable yet awkward moment when Trump repeatedly dismissed his requests to tour his Manhattan apartment.
Brolin’s Evolving Stance
In his appearances and social media posts, Brolin has expressed his views on Trump that have evolved over time. During a 2016 appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” he emphasized his previous friendship, praising Trump for his ability to positively impact Manhattan’s economy. However, in 2020, ahead of the presidential election, he publicly criticized Trump, identifying himself as a “conservative Democrat” and stating, “I refuse to believe that Donald Trump is our core version of American masculinity.”
Josh Brolin’s reflections on his former friendship with Trump provide insight into the complexities of their relationship and underscore the changing perceptions of the former president among those who once knew him. As the political landscape continues to evolve, Brolin’s experiences serve as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of fame and influence.