Hollywood icon Kurt Russell has shared a remarkable story about hosting King Charles, Princess Diana, Prince William, and Prince Harry at his home for a family getaway in the early 1990s.
Royal Family’s Private Escape
Russell first crossed paths with the royals at the royal premiere of his film Backdraft, where he sat between Princess Diana and then-Prince Charles. Understanding their challenges with paparazzi, he offered them a discreet retreat. “If you ever want to go somewhere that’s pretty under control, we’ll work it out—let me know,” Russell recalled.
Connections formed later when Sarah Ferguson, known as Fergie, spoke with Goldie Hawn. Diana then brought her sons, William and Harry, for a week-long stay while Russell’s family was away. They enjoyed the break immensely, leaving behind appreciative notes. Russell noted, “I’ve seen Harry a number of times since then and he always remembers and he’s very sweet—he always remembers it as one of the really fun times they had.” He added with pride, “The Future King of England [Prince William] was sleeping in my son’s room.”
Spotlight on The Madison
Russell appears on the upcoming episode of The Jonathan Ross Show to promote his new series The Madison, created by Taylor Sheridan of Yellowstone fame. Co-starring Michelle Pfeiffer, Matthew Fox, and Patrick J. Adams, the drama features Russell as Preston Clyburn, a character close to his own persona. “It’s the first time I’m playing someone very like myself—I like that a lot too,” he shared.
Reflecting on his versatile career, Russell said, “I’ve had the great opportunity to play different broad characters and genres… The Madison show is very different.”
Family Ties and Future Plans
Russell also touched on stepdaughter Kate Hudson’s Oscar nomination for Song Sung Blue. Goldie Hawn plans to attend as her date, with Russell aiming to join if his schedule allows. “I think I’m probably going to have a suit sitting by. I’m going to get home in time to be there,” he stated.
Looking back, Russell reminisced about his early uncredited role alongside Elvis Presley in 1963’s It Happened at the World’s Fair and later portraying the King in a TV movie. “It was primarily my memory of having worked with him,” he explained.
Asked about retirement, Russell affirmed his passion: “There is something about acting, it never gets old.”
The episode of The Jonathan Ross Show airs Saturday at 9:25 p.m. on ITV1 and ITVX.
