Josh Brolin Recalls Barbra Streisand’s Response When He Asked Her for a Glass of Wine

Actor Josh Brolin has opened up about his journey to sobriety, candid interactions with his stepmother Barbra Streisand, and the life-changing experiences that shaped his path.

Brolin’s new memoir, From Under the Truck, offers an intimate look into his struggles with addiction, relationships, and fatherhood, presenting an unflinching account of his life’s highs and lows.

A Pivotal Moment with Barbra Streisand

In a conversation with The Times, Brolin shared a key moment from before he became sober. Visiting his father’s home, James Brolin, and stepmother Streisand, he casually asked for a glass of wine. Streisand responded bluntly: “But aren’t you a drunk?”

Brolin, now 56, revealed that her honesty resonated with him. “There’s nothing I ultimately appreciate more in anybody than an ability to just say it, regardless of the reaction,” he said. He added that Streisand’s directness, though challenging, played a role in shaping his approach to life.

During an interview with Howard Stern, Brolin elaborated, describing Streisand as a nurturing yet straightforward figure in his life. “She was like, ‘No. You’re an alcoholic. I’m not gonna give you wine. Alcoholics can’t drink wine because it’s bad for them,’” he recalled.

The Road To Sobriety

Brolin’s sober journey started in 2013 following a string of awakenings. He described a night of heavy drinking, which included a brawl in a fast food drive-through, and waking up outside his house hungover. He came to the realization that he was at a turning point later, while his grandma lay dying.

“I knew that was going to be the last time I drank,” Brolin said. He sought help through rehab and Alcoholics Anonymous and has since embraced sobriety. Reflecting on his decision, he remarked, “I love being sober. I have more fun. There’s nothing I go through that I’m certain wouldn’t be worse if I was drinking.”

Exploring Addiction And Family Dynamics

Brolin’s memoir delves into his tumultuous relationship with substances, which began early. He writes about trying marijuana at age 9, dropping acid at 13, and falling into patterns of heavy drinking.

He credits Streisand’s tough love and his determination to shield his children from his struggles as key motivations to change.

In one harrowing account, Brolin shares how a stabbing incident inadvertently saved his life. A knife aimed at his stomach was slowed by the dense umbilical ligament, preventing further damage. He recalls the moment vividly, describing how his wife Kathryn Boyd rushed to call for help.

Brolin also reflects on his childhood in California, his relationship with his late mother Jane, and his father James. These personal stories provide insight into the man behind the screen, offering readers a deep dive into his life’s complexity.

From Under the Truck is set to hit bookstores on Tuesday, November 19, and is available for preorder.

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