Josh Brolin reflects on his past relationship with Donald Trump from the days before Trump became the President of the United States.
The star of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, Josh Brolin, first crossed paths with Trump during their collaboration on Oliver Stone’s Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps in 2010. Although both were part of the film’s production, Trump’s scenes were ultimately excluded from the final version.
During a discussion with The Independent, Brolin was queried about whether his role as Monsignor Wicks in Knives Out 3—a conceited and oblivious clergyman—was inspired by Trump. Brolin refuted such claims, emphasizing that any suggestions of Trump influencing his character were inaccurate. He jokingly remarked, “I could concoct a story about it stemming from a sort of Trumpian avarice,” he shared with the interviewer.
Brolin expressed that he wasn’t intimidated by his former acquaintance despite the tumult and controversy of his political tenure. He also mentioned Trump’s boasts about remaining in office indefinitely, which Brolin seriously doubts will materialize, and he commented, “I’ll just handle it” if it ever does happen. Reflecting on their former friendship, Brolin noted that Trump has changed significantly from the person he once knew.
I’m not frightened of Trump because even though he claims he’ll stay forever, that’s unlikely to occur. And if it does, then I’ll confront that situation when it comes. But knowing Trump before his presidency, he was a different person.
Brolin observed that his initial interactions with the then-businessman were more serene compared to his later public demeanor in politics. He admitted that Trump’s business activities likely involved considerable corruption, yet he remained impressed by Trump’s achievements. To Brolin, the Trump he knew is nearly unrecognizable today. “It’s power unchecked, it’s uncontrolled,” he noted.
Despite his altered perception of President Trump, Brolin still sees some redeeming qualities, particularly Trump’s knack for marketing and engaging with audiences, which he believes makes him an effective “mascot” for his followers.
No one surpasses his genius in marketing—he pinpoints the vulnerabilities of the masses and exploits them. That’s why I think many people view him as a mascot. It’s less about Trump himself and more about the general population’s longing for affirmation.
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery is currently showing in select theaters and will be available on Netflix starting December 12, 2025.
Ava Thornton is an entertainment journalist with a keen eye for the latest in Hollywood, indie films, and streaming trends.
Her work blends insider knowledge with a deep appreciation for storytelling.
