5 Shocking Things Woody Harrelson Did In 2025: From Deep-Sea Thrillers To A Brotherly DNA Mystery

Woody Harrelson, a Hollywood icon known for his eclectic roles and outspoken nature, has had a remarkably busy and headline-grabbing year in 2025. From tackling the deep-sea survival thriller *Last Breath* to reigniting a bizarre family mystery with Matthew McConaughey, the actor continues to prove he is one of the industry's most compelling and unpredictable figures. This article, updated on December 12, 2025, dives into the most recent and significant actions, projects, and public statements that define what Woody Harrelson has been up to in the past year, confirming his status as an actor of both immense talent and controversial conviction. The question "What did Woody Harrelson do?" no longer just refers to his filmography; it now encompasses his environmental activism, his surprising personal revelations, and his willingness to court controversy on major platforms. His recent activities span major theatrical releases, voice work for environmental documentaries, and candid discussions about his personal life and past regrets, providing a fresh look at the star.

Woodrow Tracy Harrelson: A Brief Biography and Latest Profile

Woodrow Tracy Harrelson was born on July 23, 1961, in Midland, Texas. He first rose to prominence for his Emmy-winning role as the lovable bartender Woody Boyd on the long-running NBC sitcom *Cheers*. His career successfully transitioned to film, where he has become renowned for his versatile performances in both comedy and drama. Harrelson has received multiple Academy Award nominations for his work in films such as *The People vs. Larry Flynt*, *The Messenger*, and *Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri*. Beyond acting, he is a dedicated activist, championing causes such as environmental conservation and the legalization of cannabis. He is married to Laura Louie, and the couple has three daughters. His father, Charles Harrelson, was a convicted hitman, a complicated part of the actor's past that has often been a subject of public interest.

The 2025 Film Slate: Deep-Sea Thrillers and Ensemble Blockbusters

The year 2025 has cemented Woody Harrelson's reputation as a prolific and in-demand leading man, with several high-profile projects hitting theaters and production schedules.

1. Starring in the Survival Thriller *Last Breath*

One of his most anticipated releases of the year is the survival thriller *Last Breath*. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on February 28, 2025, from Focus Features. Harrelson stars as Duncan Allcock alongside Finn Cole and Simu Liu. The plot is based on a true story about a deep-sea saturation diver who is stranded on the ocean floor with a limited oxygen supply. The movie, which runs for a tight 93 minutes, focuses on the extreme time restraints faced by the divers, including Allcock and David Yuasa (played by Simu Liu). The film has been described as an overlooked 2025 survival thriller that recently hit Prime Video, indicating its strong performance on streaming platforms following its theatrical run.

2. Returning for *Now You See Me: Now You Don't*

Harrelson is slated to reprise his role as the mentalist Merritt McKinney in the upcoming installment of the popular heist series, *Now You See Me: Now You Don't*. This project continues his involvement in major ensemble blockbusters, showcasing his ability to blend comedy and action.

3. Filming a New Quentin Dupieux Project in Paris

In October 2025, Harrelson was spotted in Paris filming a new movie project with eccentric French filmmaker Quentin Dupieux. The production involved scenes set amid fake riots, suggesting the film will likely have the surreal and dark comedic tone characteristic of Dupieux's work. This collaboration highlights Harrelson's willingness to work with unconventional, auteur directors from around the world.

Recent Personal Revelations and Public Stances

Beyond his professional commitments, Harrelson made headlines in 2025 for a mix of personal confessions, controversial statements, and definitive career decisions.

4. The Matthew McConaughey Brother Theory

Perhaps the most bizarre and widely discussed revelation came when Harrelson publicly confirmed that he believes he may actually be the biological brother of fellow actor Matthew McConaughey. The long-standing rumor stems from a conversation with McConaughey's mother, who allegedly implied a past relationship with Harrelson's father. Harrelson stated that he and McConaughey are considering taking a DNA test to definitively settle the mystery. This potential family bombshell has captivated fans and the media, adding a new layer of intrigue to the actors' famous, long-time friendship.

5. Addressing Controversy and Activism

Harrelson has never shied away from voicing his opinions, a trait that led to a notable controversy and a significant career announcement this year.

The *SNL* Monologue Backlash

Earlier in the year, Harrelson ignited significant controversy following his *Saturday Night Live* monologue. The monologue included what many interpreted as a COVID conspiracy joke, suggesting a hidden agenda behind the pandemic response. Harrelson subsequently ignored the ensuing backlash, standing by his statements and demonstrating his indifference to mainstream criticism. This event underscored his reputation as a counter-culture figure who often challenges conventional narratives.

Ruling Out a *True Detective* Return

Fans of the critically acclaimed HBO series *True Detective* were disappointed when Harrelson recently revealed he has no plans to return to the show. Harrelson starred alongside Matthew McConaughey in the show's first season, which is widely regarded as a modern television classic. His definitive ruling out of a return to the role of Detective Marty Hart confirms he is focused on new cinematic ventures.

Commitment to Environmental Causes

Continuing his long-standing commitment to activism, Harrelson lent his voice to the documentary *Kuleana* in November 2025. The documentary focuses on the critical issue of protecting the ocean, aligning with his history of championing environmental conservation. He has also publicly shared his personal financial regrets, specifically mentioning that his biggest regret was not investing in Tesla stock when he had the chance. This mix of professional, personal, and political actions solidifies what Woody Harrelson did in 2025: he starred in major films, fueled a major celebrity family mystery, and continued to be a provocative voice in public discourse. He remains a powerful figure in the entertainment world, constantly pushing boundaries and keeping the public guessing about his next move.