Wild Animals Used to Be Sicced on Josh Brolin and Brother

Josh Brolin opens up about the complex dynamics of his relationship with his mother in his new memoir, shedding light on her struggles with alcoholism and sharing an alarming anecdote that illustrates the intensity of their bond. Readers will discover how his mother’s behavior shaped his childhood experiences, revealing both the challenges and the unique moments that defined their connection.

In a revealing interview with The Times—published on Saturday—Brolin discusses his memoir titled, “From Underneath the Truck.” The title refers to a particularly wild night characterized by excessive drinking, which culminated in a shocking incident where his mother’s boyfriend ended up passed out underneath a vehicle. This story serves as a powerful metaphor for Brolin’s chaotic upbringing, highlighting the impacts of addiction and reckless behavior on family life.

During the interview, Brolin recounts a particularly amusing yet terrifying story about his mother, Jane, a dedicated wildlife conservationist. He shares how she would often yell “Sic ’em” at wild animals, such as cougars, coyotes, and bobcats, in the vicinity. This unusual behavior often resulted in these animals chasing after him and his brother Jess, creating a chaotic yet memorable childhood filled with unique encounters with nature.

Brolin vividly describes the urgency of these moments, writing, “You knew if you happened to didn’t get on the other side of that shut door within a few seconds, you’d be cleaning up fresh bloody marks somewhere on your body for the rest of the day.” This reflection not only illustrates the danger of these encounters but also highlights the intense pressures of growing up in such a volatile environment, revealing a mix of fear and thrill that characterized his formative years.

Despite the undeniably frightening nature of these experiences, Brolin expresses a certain ambivalence, saying he is “loath to say” just how terrifying they were. He reflects on his mother’s personality, acknowledging that while she could be a handful, she was never the kind of person you wanted to be without. This sentiment captures the complexity of their relationship, filled with both love and fear, illustrating the emotional depth of his upbringing.

Tragically, Brolin’s mother passed away in a car accident in 1995 at the young age of 55. At that time, Brolin, who was grappling with a heroin addiction, perceived 55 as a ripe old age. This poignant moment in his life serves as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the profound impacts of addiction, both on the individual and their loved ones.

Looking back on his life, Brolin, now 56, reflects on how misguided his beliefs were regarding life expectancy, particularly in relation to his mother’s untimely death. It took him many years before he was able to overcome his addictions, a journey that profoundly shaped his understanding of life and mortality. His reflections reveal a deep sense of regret and growth, showcasing how personal challenges can lead to significant transformation.

Brolin delves into the darker aspects of his youth in “From Underneath the Truck,” discussing experiences like dropping acid at just 13 years old and showing up at his grandmother’s deathbed reeking of alcohol. These candid admissions provide a raw look at the struggles he faced, illustrating the profound impact of substance abuse on his life and relationships, and how these experiences have ultimately shaped the person he has become.