The Hudson-Hawn-Russell acting dynasty welcomes a new generation as Oliver Hudson‘s 18-year-old son, Wilder Hudson, makes his big screen debut in the Netflix holiday rom-com A Merry Little Ex-Mas, a performance that brought his proud father to tears on set.
The world of classic films and Hollywood dynasties is always buzzing with the emergence of new talent, especially when it stems from a lineage as renowned as the Hudson-Hawn-Russell family. This holiday season, all eyes are on Wilder Hudson, the 18-year-old son of actor Oliver Hudson, as he makes his feature film acting debut in the upcoming Netflix rom-com, A Merry Little Ex-Mas. What makes this debut particularly poignant is the profound emotional reaction it elicited from his proud father, marking a memorable moment for the family and fans alike.
A Father’s Unforgettable Pride: Oliver Hudson in Tears
For any parent, witnessing their child achieve a significant milestone is a powerful experience, but for an actor like Oliver Hudson, seeing his son step onto the same stage for the first time was overwhelming. Wilder, who had just completed an acting class, landed the role of Gabriel, the son of Oliver’s character Everett, in the holiday film. Despite his lack of professional experience, Wilder’s performance, particularly an emotional monologue near the end of the movie, deeply moved his father.
“I’m sitting there listening in the movie, and after his first take, I, for the first time, just started crying. Because I couldn’t believe that this was my son,” Oliver shared with People. He further explained the depth of his emotion: “I just swelled with this pride that I’d never felt before, and it was just overwhelming and it made me emotional. That was a moment for me that I will never, ever forget.” This heartfelt reaction highlights not only a father’s love but also the unique experience of seeing a child embrace the family’s artistic calling.
A Merry Little Ex-Mas: A Festive Tale of Family and Second Chances
The film, set to stream on Netflix starting November 12, brings together a delightful ensemble cast for a festive rom-com. A Merry Little Ex-Mas centers around Oliver Hudson’s character, Everett, a doctor who, along with his wife Kate (played by Alicia Silverstone), moved to a quaint hometown to start a family. Years later, facing an impending divorce and becoming empty-nesters with their daughter Sienna (Emily Hunt) and son Gabriel (Wilder Hudson), they begin to question if their unhappiness is as straightforward as it seems.
The plot thickens as Everett seeks companionship with a new girlfriend, Tess (Jameela Jamil), prompting Kate to retaliate with the hunky Chet (Pierson Fodé). Directed by Steve Carr, the film promises a mix of comedy, heart, and holiday drama, also featuring veteran actress Melissa Joan Hart. Fans got a glimpse of the festive chaos and the stellar cast when the official trailer for A Merry Little Ex-Mas was released, building anticipation for this new holiday favorite.
A Unique Father-Son Filming Experience
The opportunity for Oliver and Wilder to work together on set extended to their living arrangements during the six-week shoot in Toronto. Oliver, who also shares son Bodhi, 15, and daughter Rio, 12, with wife Erinn Bartlett, initially hoped for a “musical-montage idea” of bonding, running lines, and reconnecting with his eldest son. To facilitate this, he even upgraded their lodging.
However, the reality of living with a teenager quickly set in, with Wilder initially retreating to his room. Despite this typical adolescent behavior, Oliver cherishes the experience. “Living together for six weeks, being in each other’s space… was incredible,” he recounted. This candid look behind the scenes offers a relatable glimpse into the dynamics of a father-son relationship, even amidst the glamour of a film set.
The Enduring Hudson-Hawn-Russell Acting Dynasty
Wilder’s foray into acting is far from an isolated incident; it’s the latest chapter in a remarkable Hollywood legacy. The Hudson-Hawn-Russell family is a veritable dynasty of talent, with roots firmly planted in the entertainment industry. This impressive lineage includes:
- Goldie Hawn (grandmother)
- Kurt Russell (“Pa”/step-grandfather)
- Kate Hudson (aunt)
- Wyatt Russell (uncle)
Oliver Hudson himself has often remarked on the innate talent that seems to run through his family. He told Us Weekly, “All the kids, all the cousins, Kate’s kids, my kids — everyone wants to be an actor. It’s just in the DNA, I guess.” This generational pull towards performance highlights a unique blend of inherited talent and environmental encouragement, setting the stage for many more family members to potentially join the ranks of Hollywood’s elite.
Wilder’s Future: “Dad, This Is It”
After wrapping up his work on A Merry Little Ex-Mas, Wilder Hudson delivered a clear message to his father regarding his newfound passion: “Dad, this is it.” This decisive statement underscores the profound impact his first acting experience had on him. Oliver, understanding the challenges of the industry, acknowledges Wilder’s enthusiasm.
While the acting profession can be demanding with “dry spells” and fierce competition, Wilder’s dedication and love for the craft are undeniable. His debut marks not just a personal achievement but a hopeful sign for the continuation of a cherished Hollywood legacy, promising exciting new chapters for fans of this talented family.
