Ugly Guy From The Goonies: The Real Story Behind One Of Cinema's Most Memorable Characters

Mr. Camron Hayes V 18 May 2025

So here we are, diving deep into the world of classic cinema and one of its most iconic films, The Goonies. If you're a fan of this legendary movie, you've probably wondered about the guy who played "Chunk," the so-called ugly guy from The Goonies. Yeah, you read that right! Chunk, the lovable nerd with a heart of gold, has become a symbol of friendship, loyalty, and pure awesomeness. But what's the real story behind this character? Let's find out!

This article isn't just about revisiting a classic movie; it's about understanding the journey of an actor who brought this unforgettable character to life. From his early days to his current status, we'll explore everything you need to know about the guy who became Chunk. Whether you're a die-hard Goonies fan or just curious, this is the place to be.

So grab your popcorn, hit play on the Goonies soundtrack, and let's dive into the world of Chunk, the so-called ugly guy from The Goonies. Ready? Let's go!

Who Is the Ugly Guy from The Goonies?

Alright, let's clear the air right away. The "ugly guy" label is more of a playful nickname than an actual insult. The actor who played Chunk in The Goonies is none other than Josh Brolin. Yes, the same Josh Brolin who went on to become a Hollywood powerhouse. But back in 1985, he was just a kid with a dream and a role that would define his career.

Chunk, real name Chunk Cohen, was the comic relief in the film, and his character was everything but ugly. He was the friend you wanted on your side during tough times. His antics, his fearlessness, and his loyalty made him a fan favorite. But how did Josh Brolin land this role? And what happened after the movie's success? Let's find out.

Josh Brolin: A Brief Biography

Before we dive deeper into his role as Chunk, let's take a quick look at Josh Brolin's life. Born on February 12, 1968, in Santa Monica, California, Josh grew up in a family of actors. His dad, James Brolin, and his stepmom, Barbra Streisand, were already big names in Hollywood. So acting was in his blood.

Here's a quick rundown of his early life:

Birthplace: Santa Monica, California
Parents: James Brolin (father) and Jane Kyle (mother)
Stepmom: Barbra Streisand
Started acting at a young age, landing small roles before The Goonies

Chunk's Character in The Goonies

Chunk Cohen was the ultimate underdog. He wasn't the strongest, the fastest, or the smartest, but he had something that made him stand out—his heart. In the movie, he was the one who got captured by the Fratellis, and his famous "fat guy" dance became a meme-worthy moment. But beyond the humor, Chunk's character showed depth, especially in his friendship with Data.

Let's break down what made Chunk so memorable:

His loyalty to his friends
His bravery in tough situations
His ability to make people laugh even in the darkest moments

Behind the Scenes: Making of The Goonies

Now, let's talk about the making of The Goonies. Directed by the legendary Richard Donner and written by Steven Spielberg, this movie was a labor of love. Josh Brolin was just 17 when he auditioned for the role, and his chemistry with the other cast members sealed the deal.

Here are some interesting facts about the filming process:

The movie was filmed in Astoria, Oregon
Josh and the other actors had to endure harsh weather conditions
The cave scenes were shot in real caves, adding to the authenticity

Josh Brolin's Audition

Josh's audition was nothing short of legendary. The casting directors were looking for someone who could bring humor and heart to the role, and Josh nailed it. His natural comedic timing and ability to connect with the other actors made him the perfect choice for Chunk.

Post-Goonies: Josh Brolin's Career

After The Goonies, Josh Brolin's career skyrocketed. He went on to star in numerous blockbusters, including No Country for Old Men, Wanted, and Avengers: Infinity War. His portrayal of Thanos became iconic, proving that he could handle both comedy and drama with ease.

Here are some of his notable roles:

Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe
George W. Bush in W.
Agent Hank Pym in Ant-Man

Josh Brolin's Personal Life

Beyond his acting career, Josh Brolin has an interesting personal life. He's been married twice and has three children. His second marriage to Kathryn Boyd has been a source of happiness and stability for him.

Here's a quick overview:

Married to Kathryn Boyd since 2013
Three children: Trevor, Eden, and Nayla
Known for his philanthropic work and activism

The Impact of The Goonies

The Goonies isn't just a movie; it's a cultural phenomenon. It inspired countless adventure films and left a lasting impact on its fans. For Josh Brolin, it was the role that launched his career and introduced him to a global audience.

Here are some reasons why The Goonies remains relevant:

Its timeless themes of friendship and bravery
Its memorable characters and quotable lines
Its influence on modern adventure films

The Legacy of Chunk

Chunk's legacy lives on through fan art, memes, and tributes. Fans still talk about his famous dance and his unwavering loyalty to his friends. In many ways, Chunk represents the best of us—flaws and all.

Frequently Asked Questions About Josh Brolin

Let's address some common questions about Josh Brolin and his role as Chunk:

1. Is Josh Brolin Really the Ugly Guy from The Goonies?

Nah, dude. Josh Brolin is just an incredibly talented actor who played the role of Chunk. The "ugly guy" label is more of a playful nickname than anything else.

2. What Other Movies Has Josh Brolin Been In?

Josh has been in some major blockbusters, including No Country for Old Men, Wanted, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His versatility as an actor has made him a household name.

3. Is Josh Brolin Still Acting?

Yes, he's still rocking it! Josh continues to take on challenging roles and deliver performances that blow people away.

The Future of Josh Brolin

Looking ahead, Josh Brolin shows no signs of slowing down. With upcoming projects in the works, fans can expect more amazing performances from this talented actor. Whether he's playing a superhero or a complex character, Josh always brings his A-game.

Upcoming Projects

Here are some of the projects Josh has coming up:

A new Marvel movie
An action thriller
A drama that promises to be a game-changer

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! The story of Josh Brolin, the so-called ugly guy from The Goonies, is one of talent, hard work, and perseverance. From his early days as Chunk to his current status as a Hollywood icon, Josh has proven that he's one of the best in the business.

Here's a quick recap of what we've learned:

Josh Brolin played Chunk in The Goonies
Chunk's character was all about heart and loyalty
Josh's career took off after The Goonies
He continues to deliver amazing performances in blockbusters

Now it's your turn! Leave a comment, share this article, or check out some of Josh's other movies. Who knows? You might discover a new favorite. Until next time, keep it real and keep it Goonies!