Josh Brolin Dismisses Trump Inspiration for ‘Knives Out’ Character, Reflects on Past Friendship
Josh Brolin asserts his portrayal of Monsignor Wicks in the latest Knives Out installment was not modeled after Donald Trump, while also offering a unique perspective on the former president’s marketing prowess and dismissing the possibility of a third term bid. The actor shared these insights during a Saturday interview with The Independent.
Brolin, an Oscar nominee, addressed speculation surrounding his character, stating, “I could make something up and say it was rooted in a kind of Trumpian greed,” but ultimately clarified that the portrayal stemmed from a different place. He explained that the character’s motivations shift once “Wicks garners a sense of power, then there are no boundaries.”
A Former Friendship and Trump’s Marketing “Genius”
The discussion prompted Brolin to reflect on his prior relationship with Trump, a connection forged after the actor’s work on Wall Street 2: Money Never Sleeps, a film in which Trump was slated for a cameo appearance. Brolin described Trump as a “genius” in the realm of marketing, arguing that he possesses an uncanny ability to “take the weakness of the general population and fill it.”
This observation led Brolin to suggest that Trump’s appeal extends beyond individual policy positions. “And that’s why I think a lot of people feel that they have a mascot in him,” he stated. “I think it’s much less about Trump than it is about the general population and their need for validation.”
Dismissing a Third Term Bid
Brolin also weighed in on the ongoing speculation regarding a potential third presidential run by Trump. He confidently predicted that such a scenario is “just not going to happen.”
“I’m not scared of Trump, because even though he says he’s staying forever, it’s just not going to happen,” Brolin said. “And if it does, then I’ll deal with that moment.” He further emphasized his unique understanding of Trump, adding, “But having been a friend of Trump before he was president, I know a different guy.”
Brolin’s comments offer a rare glimpse into a past relationship with a figure who continues to dominate the political landscape, and provide a nuanced perspective on the enduring appeal of Donald Trump.
