Wyatt Russell, the son of Hollywood legends Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, is carving out his own path in the entertainment industry. With a string of high-profile roles and a grounded approach to fame, Wyatt is proving he’s more than just a “nepo baby.” Let’s dive into his journey, from his early days to his recent success, and explore how he’s making a name for himself.
Early Life and Family Legacy
Born on July 10, 1986, in Los Angeles, California, Wyatt Hawn Russell grew up in a blended family steeped in Hollywood royalty. His parents, Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, have been together since 1983, creating one of Tinseltown’s most enduring partnerships. Wyatt is their only child together, but he was raised alongside his half-siblings: Kate Hudson and Oliver Hudson (Goldie’s children from her previous marriage to Bill Hudson) and Boston Russell (Kurt’s son from his marriage to Season Hubley).
Despite his famous lineage, Wyatt initially pursued a different passion—ice hockey. A talented goaltender, he played professionally in the United States and Europe until injuries forced him to retire in his early 20s. This setback paved the way for his transition to acting, a career he approached with determination and humility.
Breaking Into Hollywood
Wyatt’s acting career began with small roles, often in projects connected to his family. As a child, he appeared briefly in films like Overboard (1987) and Escape from L.A. (1996), both starring his father. However, he consciously avoided leaning on his parents’ fame, choosing to build his career from the ground up.
His early roles included films like Soldier (1998) and This Is 40 (2012), but Wyatt started gaining attention with his performance in the 2014 comedy 22 Jump Street. He showcased his versatility in projects like the horror-comedy Overlord (2018) and the quirky TV series Lodge 49 (2018–2019). Critics began to take notice of his natural charisma and ability to hold his own in diverse genres.
Marvel Stardom and Critical Acclaim
Wyatt’s breakthrough came with his role as John Walker in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Introduced in the 2021 Disney+ series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Walker is a complex character—a government-appointed successor to Captain America who grapples with morality and power. Wyatt’s nuanced portrayal earned praise for adding depth to a character that could have been one-dimensional.
He reprised the role in the 2025 MCU film Thunderbolts, a star-studded blockbuster featuring Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, and David Harbour. The film’s success has cemented Wyatt’s status as a rising star, with audiences and critics alike recognizing his talent. As of June 2025, Wyatt is also set to appear in Avengers: Doomsday and an untitled Steven Spielberg sci-fi project, signaling his ascent to the A-list.
Working With Family
Wyatt’s connection to his parents goes beyond genetics. In 2023, he starred alongside Kurt Russell in the Apple TV+ series Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, a Godzilla spinoff. Wyatt played a younger version of his father’s character, Lee Shaw, in flashback scenes. The experience was a professional milestone, allowing father and son to collaborate closely. Kurt praised Wyatt’s work ethic, while Wyatt credited his father’s performance for pushing him to elevate his own.
Goldie Hawn, meanwhile, has been a vocal supporter of her son’s career. In a 2025 interview, she expressed pride in Wyatt’s talent and humanity, calling her children her “legacy.” Wyatt has also spoken about the simple yet effective advice his parents gave him: “Be on time, don’t be an a**hole, and remember your lines.” This no-nonsense approach has clearly served him well.
Personal Life
Wyatt’s personal life is as grounded as his professional one. In 2019, he married actress Meredith Hagner, whom he met on the set of Folk Hero & Funny Guy (2016). The couple welcomed their first son, Buddy Prine, in 2021, followed by their second son, Boone Joseph, in 2023. Wyatt and Meredith are protective of their children’s privacy, often sharing family moments on social media with their sons’ faces obscured.
The couple splits their time between Los Angeles and Colorado, where Wyatt enjoys a quieter life away from the Hollywood spotlight. He’s also embraced his role as a father, noting that parenthood has deepened his appreciation for his own parents’ guidance.
Avoiding the “Nepo Baby” Trap
As the child of two Hollywood icons, Wyatt has faced scrutiny as a so-called “nepo baby.” However, he’s addressed the label with candor, acknowledging the doors his family name opened while emphasizing his commitment to earning his place. In a 2025 interview, he said, “I’m fortunate to have the parents I have, but I’ve worked hard to prove I belong here.” His steady rise, built on diverse roles and critical acclaim, speaks for itself.
Wyatt’s ability to navigate Hollywood without trading on his parents’ fame has earned him respect. Unlike some second-generation stars, he’s forged a career that feels authentic, with roles that highlight his range rather than his lineage.
What’s Next for Wyatt Russell?
At 38, Wyatt Russell is hitting his stride. With Thunderbolts earning buzz and major projects on the horizon, he’s poised to become a household name. His upcoming role in Spielberg’s sci-fi film, alongside stars like Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Hemsworth, is expected to showcase his ability to hold his own among heavyweights. Meanwhile, Avengers: Doomsday will likely expand his MCU presence, further solidifying his blockbuster appeal.
Off-screen, Wyatt remains focused on family and balance. He’s spoken about wanting to emulate his parents’ longevity—not just in Hollywood but in life. With Kurt and Goldie’s enduring love story as inspiration, Wyatt is building a legacy of his own, one role at a time.
Final Thoughts
Wyatt Russell’s rise in Hollywood is a testament to talent, hard work, and a grounded perspective. As the son of Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, he carries a legendary name but has earned his place through dedication and skill. From his Marvel heroics to his upcoming Spielberg collaboration, Wyatt is proving he’s a star in his own right. Keep an eye on this rising talent—his story is just beginning.
