Kurt Russell Shaped Oliver Hudson’s Love For The Holidays In ‘Magical’ Ways

Nov 20, 2025 by apost team

Actor and Christmas devotee Oliver Hudson has credited his stepfather, the legendary Kurt Russell, with shaping his lifelong love of Christmas, recalling magical family celebrations that have made the holiday an enduring tradition.

Hudson is the host of “Gingerbread Land: The Biggest Little Holiday Competition,” a festive showdown that blends creativity, craftsmanship, and heartfelt storytelling. The holiday-themed series aired on Magnolia Network and Food Network, with streaming available through HBO Max and Discovery+. 

Although Hudson has long been a lover of the holiday season, he did not anticipate how emotionally stirring the competition would become for him. As he described to USA TODAY, “There were moments where I’m like, ‘Oh, my God.’”

What ultimately moved him were the contestants – teams who dedicate their time, passion, and technical skill to crafting elaborate gingerbread structures entirely from scratch. Their efforts, driven by personal stories and unique introductions to the world of gingerbread building, reflect a committed and widespread community. Hudson even noted that nationally recognized competitors participate in events across the country, making gingerbread artistry far more competitive and vibrant than most realize.

While Hudson’s enthusiasm often leads him to dive deeply into new hobbies, he admitted that bringing a massive gingerbread creation home might have pushed the limits of his family’s living space. Married to actress Erinn Bartlett since 2006 and raising three children together, he humorously acknowledges his tendency to “buy everything” when he becomes interested in a subject – before losing steam a month later.

Hudson’s role in “Gingerbread Land: The Biggest Little Holiday Competition” added a new layer to his growing list of holiday projects. What makes this series especially meaningful for him is the sense of community among the contestants. 

Their artistry – coupled with personal and emotional backgrounds – reminded him of how creativity can bring people together. As he explained, the gingerbread world is far from a niche hobby; it includes seasoned competitors, national champions, and devoted teams traveling across the United States for various competitions.

Despite his newfound curiosity for gingerbread construction, Hudson knew his family might not welcome a towering confectionery masterpiece into their Los Angeles home. His self-professed habit of getting “hardcore” into new interests – whether sneakers, golf gear, or other passions – made him laugh at the idea of yet another temporary obsession taking up space.

Hudson’s holiday spirit traces back to his childhood in Colorado, where Russell – who became part of the family when Hudson was young – brought Christmas magic to life. According to Hudson, on his first Christmas morning at age 7, Russell “created this scenario with Santa and reindeer and bells and everything on the roof.”

He continued:

“That was so magical. And it set our belief in stone, right in that moment.”

Hudson remembered waking up to handwritten notes in “Santa’s handwriting,” complete with singed paper edges. Hudson summed up his enduring excitement:

“I’m 49 and I still get all jacked up for it.” 

He added: “It’s so fun.”

Years later, the two would share that same festive spirit on-screen in the 2018 film “The Christmas Chronicles,” where Russell famously portrayed Santa Claus. Hudson also starred in the 2025 Netflix production “A Merry Little Ex-Mas,” where he explores family dynamics and holiday humor.

apost.com

It’s clear Kurt Russell helped Oliver Hudson embrace the magic of the holidays! Which cherished memories warm your heart year after year? Let us know, and then pass this along to anyone who still believes in a little Christmas wonder!