Macaulay Culkin Opens Up About Fatherhood and the Impact of His Own Dad on His Parenting
Macaulay Culkin is committed to ensuring his children never feel isolated or unloved.
The former Home Alone star emphasizes the importance of expressing pride to his sons, Dakota (4) and Carson (3), whom he shares with partner Brenda Song.
On the December 16 episode of Mythical Kitchen, Culkin revealed, "There’s a special word I often say at home because it’s something I rarely heard as a child — 'proud.'"
Having experienced a challenging relationship with his father, Christopher "Kit" Culkin, Macaulay explained that he seldom heard words of affirmation growing up despite his early fame. Now, at 45, he makes sure to regularly express pride to his kids.
He recounted a moment from a recital: "My son froze, started crying, and ran off stage as soon as the curtain opened. I picked him up and immediately said, ‘I’m so proud of you. You were incredibly brave to go out there.’"
Recognizing how generational wounds can deeply affect people, Macaulay feels satisfied with the father he has become.
"I’m proud of myself," he added, "for being able to support my family the way I do now."
He credits much of his growth as a parent to Brenda, whom he began dating in 2017 after they met on the set of Changeland.
"Brenda is an amazing mother, and she inspires me to be a better dad and a better person," he said. "Seeing how happy our children are with her motivates me every day."
Regarding his relationship with his own father, Macaulay remains distant.
“I haven’t had contact with him for over 30 years,” he revealed on a March episode of Sibling Revelry. “And frankly, he deserves that.”
Life with Brenda Song and Their Family Moments
The couple shared a playful '90s vibe at Billie Lourd’s 33rd birthday party in July 2025.
In June 2025, Brenda posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram celebrating their eighth anniversary: "No one makes me laugh or feel as loved as you do. You're my partner in crime, my best friend, and my favorite person. To be loved by you is the greatest gift."
In 2024, the pair showed their support for their favorite football team by wearing team colors together.
They enjoyed a rare date night in March 2024 at a Clarins launch event in Los Angeles.
That same year, the couple celebrated Brenda’s 36th birthday in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, sharing moments of fun and playfulness. Macaulay even pretended to be a resort employee, offering towels and carrying bags to entertain Brenda by the poolside.
In December 2023, Macaulay and Brenda proudly introduced their son Dakota at his Hollywood Walk of Fame star ceremony, with baby Carson also in attendance, as the family beamed with joy.
During the Halloween season in 2023, Macaulay embraced the spooky festivities while Brenda handed out candy.
The couple also appeared together in October 2023 at the GFS Fall Benefit in Santa Monica, California, showcasing their elegant black and white attire.
News of their engagement was confirmed in January 2022 when Brenda was seen flaunting her ring in Beverly Hills.
Reflecting on their relationship, Brenda shared a 2020 Valentine’s Day post: "Hoppy Valentine’s Day everyone!" celebrating with Macaulay in the water.
Back in 2018, the couple enjoyed romantic strolls holding hands in Berlin’s Friedrichshain neighborhood.
Their son Dakota’s first birthday in 2022 was marked by a joyful trip to Sesame Place San Diego, which Brenda described as "magical," sharing photos of the happy family with Elmo.
Brenda has often expressed her admiration for Macaulay, celebrating his 40th birthday in 2020 with a touching Instagram message praising his kindness, humor, and loyalty.
She also showed support for Macaulay’s podcast appearances, sharing moments of their life together since 2018.
Together, the Hollywood couple has also participated in philanthropic efforts, attending the 2018 Stand Up To Cancer telecast in Los Angeles.
