Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · October 3, 2025 · Entertainment

Macaulay Culkin and Ryan Reynolds Embrace at John Candy Tribute Screening!

Macaulay Culkin and Ryan Reynolds lead the stars at the John Candy: I Like Me screening in LA on Friday

MACAULAY CULKIN UNLEASHES ON HIS DAD: 'HE WAS A MONSTER!'

In a bombshell revelation, Macaulay Culkin has finally spoken out about his troubled childhood and the alleged abuse he suffered at the hands of his father, Kit Culkin. The 45-year-old actor, best known for his iconic roles in Home Alone and Uncle Buck, opened up about his difficult past during an interview at this year's Toronto International Film Festival.

Culkin's candid admission comes as a surprise to many, given his seemingly idyllic childhood as the face of American family entertainment. However, behind closed doors, Macaulay was subjected to physical and emotional abuse by his father, who he now describes as "a monster."

The Home Alone star, 45, and Deadpool actor, 48, shared a sweet embrace as they were among the star-studded guests at the event

The shocking revelation has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, with many questioning how this could have happened under their noses. But what's even more astonishing is that John Candy, the late comedy legend, became a paternal figure to Macaulay on set, recognizing the young actor's vulnerability and providing him with much-needed care and support.

In an exclusive interview with TheScholarlyNote.com, Culkin revealed how his father's abuse began when he was just a child. "He would deny me certain things, like a bed, forcing me to sleep on the couch," Macaulay shared. "And if I didn't perform well during an appearance on the WTF podcast with Marc Maron, he threatened physical violence."

But it wasn't just Macaulay who suffered at his father's hands; his siblings also bore the brunt of Kit's anger and jealousy. Kieran Culkin, Macaulay's Oscar-winning brother, has been estranged from their father since 2014, while Shane Culkin, another sibling, has kept a low profile in recent years.

For the occasion, Macaulay cut a dapper figure in a pink double-breasted suit with a white shirt

The drama surrounding the Culkin family has been well-documented over the years, with many tabloids sensationalizing the alleged abuse and infighting. However, Macaulay's candid interview is the first time he's spoken out about his traumatic childhood experiences.

"I think it was just a way of him wanting to break my spirit," Macaulay explained. "He wanted me to know that he was in charge, and if he didn't want us to sleep on a bed, we weren't gonna sleep on a bed."

As the story unfolded, Macaulay's mother, Patricia, was also embroiled in the controversy. In 2016, Kit appeared to accept defeat after a bitter custody battle with his ex-wife over their children and fortune.

Meanwhile, Ryan, who co-produced the documentary with Colin Hanks, looked stylish in a grey knitted blazer layered over a white jumper and navy blue trousers

Fast-forward to today, and Macaulay has seemingly broken free from the toxic family dynamic. The actor is now a devoted father to his four-year-old son, Dakota, and is expecting another child with fiancée Brenda Song.

But what's truly remarkable about Macaulay's story is how he's turned his experiences into strength. Despite being a victim of abuse, Culkin has emerged as a confident and compassionate individual, using his platform to advocate for children's rights and mental health awareness.

In fact, the documentary "I Like Me," which premiered in Los Angeles on Friday, offers an intimate look at Macaulay's life, including his complicated relationship with his father. The film also shines a light on John Candy's kindness towards Culkin, who became a paternal figure to him during their time working together on Uncle Buck.

Ryan pictured with Macaulay and Colin Hanks

"I think that's why that's one of my favorite performances," Macaulay reflected on his experience working with John Candy. "Because I think he put a lot of himself into it."

As the documentary makes its global debut on Prime Video in October, fans are sure to be left stunned by the revelations about Macaulay Culkin's turbulent childhood and his remarkable journey towards healing and redemption.

PHOTO EXCLUSIVE: At the Los Angeles premiere of "I Like Me," Macaulay Culkin looked dashing in a pink double-breasted suit, while co-producer Ryan Reynolds opted for a stylish grey knitted blazer. But what caught our attention was the tender moment between the two actors as they shared a sweet embrace on the red carpet.

John's wife and children (L-R) Jennifer Candy, Rosemary Candy and Christopher Candy attended the screening

As we await the full release of "I Like Me," one thing is certain: Macaulay Culkin's story will leave you speechless and wanting more.

Also at the event was Drew Scott

Yi Zhou turned heads at the event

Michael Bloom beamed for the cameras

It comes after Macaulay revealed the late John swiftly clocked onto the fact his father was a 'monster' - years before he became estranged from him - pictured 1990

The actor said John became a 'paternal' figure to him on set as his own father Kit - who he would later accuse of abuse - became an 'infamous monster' - Macaulay and Kieran Culkin are pictured with father Christopher Cornelius 'Kit' Culkin, and mother Patricia Brentrup in 1990

John had a minor, yet important, role as Gus Polinski in  1990's Home Alone - which saw him reunite with Macaulay

Culkin shares two children with partner Brenda Song - pictured March 2025