Kieran Culkin, the star of HBO’s “Succession,” recently discussed his family’s holiday traditions, revealing that he and his wife, Jazz Charton, have yet to introduce their two children, Kinsey and Wilder, to his brother Macaulay Culkin’s iconic films, “Home Alone” and “Home Alone 2: Lost In New York.” Kieran expressed concern about some of the potentially frightening elements present in the movies, particularly for his youngest child, Wilder, who is only three years old. He specifically mentioned scenes that might be too intense, such as the tarantula encounter and the threatening dialogue from one of the home invaders, which could leave a lasting impression on such a young viewer. This caution indicates Kieran’s thoughtful approach to parenting, prioritizing his children’s emotional readiness when it comes to watching films.
Despite these concerns, Kieran hinted that this holiday season could mark a turning point for his family, stating that he and Jazz believe Kinsey and Wilder might finally be ready to experience the comedic chaos of “Home Alone.” If not this year, Kieran suggested that next year would likely be more suitable. This reflects a broader theme in parenting, where the timing of introducing certain media is often gauged according to children’s maturity levels. Kieran’s cautious optimism suggests excitement for this potential milestone as a shared family experience, further enriching their holiday traditions.
Macaulay Culkin, Kieran’s older brother, originally catapulted to fame through his roles in “Home Alone” as a child, facing unprecedented levels of celebrity from a young age. Kieran recalled feeling empathy for his brother, recognizing the challenges that came with sudden stardom. He reflected on this during a March 2023 interview, noting that even as a kid, he sensed the weight of fame on Macaulay and felt that it was a difficult burden to carry. Kieran’s reflections illustrate how childhood experiences within the same family can diverge, with one sibling enjoying the spotlight while another grapples with the implications of such success.
The impact of this celebrity culture also shaped Kieran’s own career choices. After his initial roles in the “Home Alone” films, he struggled with a complicated relationship with acting. Although he eventually starred in the 2002 film “Igby Goes Down,” he admitted to a hesitance about embracing success in his acting career, which stemmed from watching Macaulay navigate fame. Kieran’s conflicting feelings demonstrate the pressure that can accompany acting as a profession, particularly for those exposed to the industry early on. His candid admission reveals a desire for creative fulfillment without the added complexities of living in the public eye.
While Kieran has taken a cautious approach towards introducing his children to his brother’s legacy, Macaulay has already shared “Home Alone” with his eldest son, Dakota, who is also three years old. Macaulay expressed delight in Dakota’s reaction to the film, affirming that his son found it hilarious. In a lighthearted moment, he recounted his playful strategy of convincing Dakota that he was a character in the movie, adding a personal twist to this iconic narrative. This playful engagement reflects the warmth and humor within the Culkin family as they navigate their experiences with fame and family through the lens of beloved films.
Ultimately, the contrasting approaches of Kieran and Macaulay highlight the multifaceted nature of parenting within a family that is intertwined with Hollywood history. As Kieran prepares to introduce “Home Alone” to his children, he grapples with the balance of nostalgia and protection, while Macaulay revels in the joy of sharing his own childhood legacy with his son. The narrative of the Culkin family provides a unique perspective on the intersection of fame, family dynamics, and the simple joys and challenges of parenting during the holiday season.
