When ‘On the Road’ Changed Everything: Josh Brolin’s Wild Ride Through Life and Literature

In a lively segment on “The Late Show,” host Stephen Colbert welcomed the charismatic Josh Brolin, known for his impressive acting career and larger-than-life personality.

The conversation quickly turned to Brolin’s involvement in a new documentary titled “Carowax Road,” which explores the Beat Generation and its lasting impact on American culture.

Colbert kicked off the discussion by expressing his admiration for the Beats, noting that they often get overlooked in contemporary conversations.

Brolin enthusiastically agreed, sharing his own experiences with the Beat poets, including Gregory Corso and Allen Ginsberg, whom he fondly recalled meeting on a memorable night.

Their shared passion for literature set the stage for a deeper exploration of how Brolin’s life was influenced by the works of these iconic figures.

As the conversation flowed, Colbert asked Brolin about his personal journey with literature.

Brolin recounted the moment he first read Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road” at the age of 19.

The impact was immediate and profound.

“It exploded my brain,” he exclaimed, describing how the novel ignited a sense of adventure within him.

Inspired by Kerouac’s tales of freedom and exploration, Brolin embarked on his own journey, which included a remarkable 3,700-mile motorcycle trip with his then-fiancée.

Brolin’s recounting of the motorcycle ride was both humorous and poignant.

He described how his future wife’s parents were frantic, trying to convince her to abandon the trip and return home.

“They were saying, ‘We’ll put you on a plane right now to get you away from this man,’” he laughed, highlighting the reckless spirit that defined that chapter of his life.

It was clear that Brolin embraced the essence of the Beat Generation, living life on the edge and pursuing experiences that would shape him.

The conversation took a lighthearted turn as Colbert prompted Brolin to share more about his recent motorcycle adventures.

Brolin revealed that he had just returned from a thousand-mile ride on a vintage Harley-Davidson with a group of friends.

The camaraderie and thrill of the open road were palpable in his storytelling.

He recounted a particularly amusing incident involving a friend who dressed up as Bigfoot while riding through Yosemite National Park, showcasing the playful side of their adventures.

Colbert couldn’t help but tease Brolin about the challenges of capturing the perfect photo while riding.

“What does a fella got to do to get invited on the ride?” he asked, prompting laughter from the audience.

Brolin’s candidness about the dangers of taking pictures while riding added to the humor of the moment, as he playfully acknowledged the absurdity of it all.

As the discussion continued, Brolin touched on his commitment to maintaining a fit physique as an actor.

He humorously contemplated the idea of embracing a different lifestyle, joking about the possibility of becoming a “fat biker” who smokes cigars and enjoys life without the pressure of maintaining a perfect body.

His self-deprecating humor resonated with the audience, showcasing his ability to balance seriousness with levity.

The conversation also delved into Brolin’s recent weight loss journey, where he shared how he had gone from 212 to 176 pounds.

His candidness about the ups and downs of maintaining a healthy lifestyle struck a chord, reminding viewers that even Hollywood stars face their own struggles.

As the segment neared its conclusion, Colbert and Brolin reflected on the nature of their conversation, likening it to a “tone poem” rather than a traditional interview.

Brolin’s infectious energy and charisma kept the audience engaged, and his anecdotes about literature, life, and adventure painted a vivid picture of a man who fully embraces the spirit of exploration.

In a world where routine often overshadows spontaneity, Josh Brolin’s journey serves as a reminder of the power of literature to inspire and transform lives.

His experiences with the Beats and the adventures that followed showcase the beauty of living authentically and fearlessly.

As Brolin continues to navigate the complexities of life and career, his connection to the Beat Generation remains a guiding force, urging him to seek out new horizons and embrace the unexpected.

With laughter and insight, Brolin’s conversation on “The Late Show” left viewers inspired to embark on their own journeys, reminding us all that life is meant to be lived to the fullest.