Oscar-nominated actor Josh Brolin recently shared insights about his friendship with Donald Trump, which predates Trump’s presidency, during an interview with The Independent. Brolin expressed his belief that voters need not fear Trump, stating, “I know a different guy.” He addressed Trump’s offhand remarks about an indefinite presidency, commenting, “I’m not scared of Trump, because even though he says he’s staying forever, it’s just not going to happen. And if it does, then I’ll deal with that moment.”
Brolin, well-known for his role as the villain Thanos in the Avengers franchise, first connected with Trump while working on Oliver Stone’s film Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps. Although Trump ultimately did not appear in the film, the two forged a friendship. Brolin praised Trump’s marketing acumen, asserting, “There is no greater genius than him in marketing.”
The actor reflected on Trump’s appeal, suggesting that it stems from his ability to resonate with people’s perceived voids in their lives. He remarked, “He takes the weakness of the general population and fills it,” indicating that many find in Trump a “mascot” representing their need for validation. This perspective suggests that Brolin views Trump’s influence as tied to broader social dynamics rather than just Trump’s individual persona.
Known for his early role in The Goonies and a career revival with the Coen brothers’ No Country for Old Men, Brolin’s comments provide an intriguing look into the complexities of public perception surrounding prominent figures like Trump, while also highlighting the human need for connection and affirmation in leadership.