Who Are Macaulay and Kieran Culkin’s Parents? Everything to Know About Kit Culkin and Patricia Brentrup

Macaulay and Kieran Culkin are two well-known actors who have made a name for themselves in the entertainment industry. But what many might not know is the complex family dynamics they come from. The Culkin brothers were raised by their parents, Kit Culkin and Patricia Brentrup, who had a tumultuous relationship that ultimately led to their separation in 1995. The family dynamic took a turn for the worse as Macaulay and Kieran’s acting careers took off, leading to strained relationships with their father, Kit Culkin.

Kit Culkin and Patricia Brentrup were parents to seven children, including Macaulay and Kieran Culkin. The family faced challenges as Kit and Brentrup’s relationship deteriorated amidst Macaulay’s rising fame in the spotlight. Macaulay admitted in March 2025 that he had not spoken to his father in decades, stating that he wanted nothing to do with him. Despite the estrangement from their father, Macaulay and Kieran have maintained a strong relationship with their mother, Brentrup.

Kit Culkin, the father of Macaulay and Kieran Culkin, had aspirations of becoming an actor himself. Born in New York City, Kit had a challenging upbringing, having lost his mother at a young age. He dabbled in acting with roles in Broadway plays and films before starting a family with Brentrup. The couple welcomed Macaulay and Kieran in the 1980s, along with five other children, adding to the complexities of their family life.

As the Culkin children pursued acting careers, Kit worked odd jobs to support the family, while Brentrup was a telephone operator. They struggled financially, living in a small apartment with seven children sharing limited space. Despite their humble beginnings, Macaulay’s acting success opened doors for the family’s financial stability. However, Kit’s management of Macaulay’s career came under scrutiny, with reports of delays in film projects due to his demands.

The strained relationship between Macaulay and Kit came to light as Macaulay accused his father of being abusive, both physically and mentally. Macaulay spoke openly about the challenges he faced growing up and the impact his father’s actions had on him. Despite the difficulties, Macaulay found solace in the paternal presence of actor John Candy, who provided support and guidance during their time working together on film sets.

Following their parents’ separation in the mid-90s, Macaulay and Kieran found themselves distanced from their father, with little contact over the years. Macaulay detailed his decision to remove his parents from managing his finances as he discovered the extent of his earnings and the financial turmoil his family faced. The brothers have since focused on their careers and personal lives, away from the shadows of their family’s turbulent past.

In recent years, Macaulay and Kieran have reflected on their upbringing and the impact it has had on their lives. Despite the challenges they faced, both brothers have found success in their acting careers, with Kieran notably winning an Oscar in 2025. The Culkin family’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities of family relationships and the resilience of individuals in overcoming past hardships.

The Culkin family’s journey is a testament to the strength and perseverance of the human spirit in the face of adversity. As Macaulay and Kieran continue to navigate their lives in the public eye, they carry with them the lessons learned from their family experiences and strive to create their paths forward.