John Wayne’s Grandson, Brendan Wayne, Celebrates the ‘Profound Impact’ of Storytelling in New Podcast, ‘Hats and Helmets’ (Exclusive)

**Brendan Wayne Launches New Podcast Exploring the Art of Storytelling**

Brendan Wayne, known for his role in the acclaimed series *The Mandalorian*, is set to launch his podcast, “Hats and Helmets with Brendan Wayne,” on 8 July. Through this platform, the 54-year-old actor aims to delve into the intricate world of storytelling, a theme deeply rooted in his family’s legacy.

Wayne, the grandson of legendary Western icon John Wayne, has been influenced by a rich lineage of entertainers. As one of eight siblings, storytelling was a fundamental part of his upbringing, shared during family dinners or long road trips in their station wagon. He reflects on these formative experiences, stating, “My life has always been family-focused. We grew up knowing the power of storytelling.”

In his new venture, Wayne will partner with his 22-year-old daughter, Celia, who serves as the podcast’s executive producer. The duo will explore the multifaceted nature of storytelling across various mediums, including film, television, literature, and broader popular culture. Wayne hopes to leverage both his professional experiences and familial anecdotes to provide listeners with an understanding of how storytelling evolves yet remains anchored in timeless themes.

“Celia has always been incredibly inquisitive, constantly asking me profound questions about life and my experiences,” Wayne said. “Working together on this project and being able to honour our family legacy feels incredibly special.” The podcast’s launch date is particularly meaningful for Wayne, as it coincides with the birthdays of both his late brother and his grandfather, John Wayne.

Celia’s role in the show reflects a strategic collaboration, utilising their generational perspectives to enrich discussions. Wayne emphasises the significant advantage of working closely with his daughter: “To accomplish this with my executive producer and daughter, Celia, is the most important aspect of the project.”

The podcast promises engaging dialogues with a diverse roster of guests, including actors, writers, directors, and producers. Wayne aims to move beyond the surface layers of storytelling to examine what makes narratives memorable. The inaugural episode features two-time Emmy winner Lateef Crowder, well-known for his role as a stunt performer in *The Mandalorian*.

Wayne’s deep-seated passion for storytelling is not only demonstrated through his career but also echoed in his reflections on his character Mando. He describes the role as a thrilling blend of childhood imagination and adult responsibility. “I’ve always loved playing Mando. It allows me to be a part of something magical every day,” he expressed. “He’s a sheriff who’s striving to do the right thing, even when things get tough.”

Reflecting on his grandfather’s legacy, Wayne admires the complexity of the characters played by John Wayne. He notes, “Grandpa was not merely a white hat hero—he portrayed intricate characters who made difficult decisions. That’s what makes Mando resonate with audiences; he embodies that complexity.”

As *The Mandalorian* continues to capture viewers’ imaginations, Wayne’s new podcast represents a personal journey through the lens of storytelling. “Hats and Helmets” is set to engage audiences in pivotal conversations, shedding light on how stories shape our understanding of the world and ourselves.

Listeners can expect a blend of insight and entertainment as Wayne digs deep into the craft, hoping to illuminate the essence of storytelling for a new generation while honouring his family’s rich heritage in the performing arts. With the podcast’s debut on the horizon, Wayne is eager to share these compelling stories and encourage meaningful discussions about the narratives that shape our lives.

In the words of Wayne, “Everything has a story,” and this podcast aims to explore the many ways those stories can be told, enjoyed, and passed down through generations.