Woody Harrelson, known for his versatile roles in films like Natural Born Killers and The Hunger Games, has a family history that is as complex and compelling as his acting career.
His parents, Charles and Diane Harrelson, led very different lives, and their stories have greatly influenced Woody’s journey. This article delves into the lives of Charles and Diane Harrelson, their impact on Woody, and how their experiences shaped him as a person and actor.
Childhood and early life of Woody Harrelson
Born on July 23, 1961, in Midland, Texas, Woody Harrelson grew up in a tumultuous environment shaped by his father’s criminal activities and his mother’s steadfast resolve.
Woody was the middle child of three boys, with older brother Jordan and younger brother Brett. The family faced instability from an early age due to Charles’s frequent legal troubles and eventual abandonment.
After Charles left the family in 1968, Diane made the difficult decision to return to her hometown of Lebanon, Ohio, with her three sons. As a single mother, she worked tirelessly as a legal secretary to support her family. Woody recalls this time as challenging but formative, as his mother’s determination became a huge influence in his life.
The stormy marriage of Charles and Diane
Woody’s parents married in the 1950s after a brief romance that began when Charles was on leave from the Navy. Initially, they lived a seemingly ordinary life in Los Angeles, where Charles tried his hand at selling encyclopedias. However, he quickly fell into a life of crime, leading to a series of arrests that ultimately tore the family apart.
Charles’s criminal behavior escalated, and he became involved in more serious crimes, including robbery and murder. The couple’s relationship deteriorated as a result, with Charles often imprisoned and unable to provide a stable home for his family. By the time Woody was born, Diane was already struggling with the consequences of Charles’s choices.
Diane Harrelson: A devoted mother
After Charles abandoned the family, Diane became the sole provider for her three sons. Woody described her as “un-f—— believable,” talking about her dedication to raising them despite financial problems. Diane’s strength and resourcefulness were very useful in ensuring her children had a nurturing home.
Diane instilled strong values in her sons, including the value of education, hard work, and faith. She worked long hours to support the family, often sacrificing her own needs to provide for her children. Despite their financial struggles, she ensured that Woody and his brothers received an education and learned the value of perseverance.
Charles Harrelson: A convicted hitman
Charles Harrelson’s life took a dark turn as he became involved in organized crime. He gained popularity as a hitman, with allegations of involvement in high-profile murders.
His criminal activities began with a murder-for-hire case in 1968. Although acquitted in one instance, he was later convicted of the murder of a Texas grain dealer, which set the stage for his eventual downfall.
In 1982, Charles was convicted of the assassination of federal judge John Wood and sentenced to two life sentences. This event shaped Woody’s perception of his father. As a young adult, Woody learned about his father’s crimes through media reports, and the revelations left a deep impact on him.
The struggles of growing up with a criminal father
Woody’s childhood was marked by the absence of his father and the stigma associated with having a parent involved in crime. He often grappled with feelings of shame and confusion regarding Charles’s actions.
Despite this, Woody attempted to understand his father as an adult. He made many attempts to visit Charles in prison, where they had complex conversations about their lives.
Reflecting on their relationship, Woody stated, “I don’t feel he was much of a father… he took no valid part in my upbringing.”
Yet, he acknowledged Charles’s intelligence and charisma, saying, “This might sound odd to say about a convicted felon, but my father is one of the most articulate, well-read, charming people I’ve ever known.”
Diane’s religious influence and family values
Raised in a strict religious environment, Woody often accompanied his mother to church. Diane’s devout Presbyterian faith played a crucial role in shaping Woody’s values and worldview. He described himself as very religious growing up.
Diane’s dedication to her faith and family instilled in Woody a strong sense of responsibility and compassion. He frequently spoke about the impact of strong women in his life, crediting his mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother for shaping him into the person he is today.
Woody spent millions trying to get a new trial for Charles
In the years that followed, Woody became increasingly interested in understanding his father’s life and choices. He dedicated significant time and resources to help Charles, believing he did not receive a fair trial for the murder of Judge Wood. Woody spent millions trying to secure a new trial for Charles.
Woody’s efforts to advocate for his father showed the internal struggle he faced, torn between his love for Charles and the acknowledgement of his criminal actions. He noted, “I tried for years to get him out. To get him a new trial… I think he’s innocent of that.”
Charles Harrelson’s death and its impact
Charles Harrelson died on March 15, 2007, in prison from a heart attack at the age of 68. His death marked the end of a turbulent life filled with crime and controversy. Woody reflected on their relationship, acknowledging the challenges but also the bond they formed despite their circumstances.
Interestingly, Woody and Charles shared the same birthday, July 23. Woody stated, “It’s so weird when I would sit and talk with him… it was just mind-blowing to see all the things he did just like me.”
The influence of Woody’s parents on his career
Woody’s family background has had a huge impact on his career choices and acting style. His experiences growing up with a criminal father and a devoted mother have shaped his perspective on life and art. In many of his roles, Woody brings a depth of emotion and authenticity that resonates with audiences.
As an actor, Woody often portrays complex characters who grapple with moral dilemmas and societal issues. His performances are usually defined by a sense of vulnerability and honesty, perhaps stemming from the struggles he faced in his personal life.
He has used his platform to advocate for various social causes, drawing inspiration from his mother’s values and his own life experiences.
ALSO READ: Is Shawn Mendes Gay? Singer Hints At Speculations About His Sexuality In New Song The Mountain
