Hollywood A-lister's notorious father was a contract-killing assassin

A Hollywood A-lister’s father is a twice-convicted murderer and armed robber.

Famed for his roles in smash hits such as True Detective, The Hunger Games (no, not the prequel), Cheers, and No Country for Old Men— Hollywood actor Woody Harrelson has a notorious father.

Charles Voyde Harrelson, Woody’s dad, was tried for three murders, spent time behind bars on multiple occasions, and even attempted a prison break over the course of his colourful life.

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Two weeks ago, Instagram account historyfeels posted about Woody's infamous father, leading to fans exclaiming their shock and surprise.

In a detailed caption, the Instagram post delved into Charles' "deep ties to organized crime" and reminded social media users of his conviction and "two consecutive life terms" post which Charles "spent the rest of his life in federal prison, where he died in 2007".

The post further declared: “In 1979, he was charged with the assassination of U.S. District Judge John H. Wood Jr., the first federal judge to be murdered in the 20th century. Harrelson carried out the hit for $250,000 on behalf of a drug dealer awaiting trial. He was captured after a six-hour standoff with police, during which he confessed to multiple killings, including JFK’s, though that claim was widely dismissed.

“In 1982, Harrelson was convicted and sentenced to two consecutive life terms. He spent the rest of his life in federal prison, where he died in 2007.”

One user commented: “I was today years old when I learned this... Well alrighty then... Holy cow ! I never heard this story before!...”

While a Woody fan wrote: "Hats off to Woody Harrelson for not letting his past personal life dictate his own life and, ultimately, his career as an actor. Brilliant actor."

A third user said: "I bet poor Woody didn't need the world reminded of that."

And another fan agreed, writing: "Poor woody doesn't need reminding and really don't see why it's any of anyone's business."

Another Instagram user lauded Woody for breaking the cycle and said: "Congrats to Woody for breaking the cycle and becoming a peace loving person."

While yet another fan was left surprised: “Wow. Had no idea... Never knew this... Interesting. Glad to know his son turned the family legacy around.”

The Oscar-nominated actor and his two brothers, Jordan and Brett, were brought up by their mum, Diane Harrelson, in Texas and Ohio.

Born on July 23, 1938, in Lovelady, TX, Charles had a stormy existence. He worked as an encyclopedia salesman and professional gambler during his early professional years and was married four times throughout his life, reports the Mirror US.

Texas Monthly reports that Charles and Diane Harrelson tied the knot in the 1950s while Charles was on leave from the Navy. In 1959, while residing in Los Angeles, he faced robbery charges but managed to secure five years probation after acting as a jailhouse "snitch," as reported by the Houston Chronicle.

The couple settled in Midland, TX, and during the early 60s they had their three sons - Jordan, Woody, and Brett - in quick succession, over a span of three years. By 1968, Charles had abandoned his family just as the children were beginning school.

Woody Harrelson reflected on these tough times in a candid 2012 interview with the Guardian, saying: "I think they separated when I was 7, but he was gone a lot before that, in prison. Away and back. Away and back. It wasn't like he was there all the time prior to that. [My mom] was well out of love with him. You know, I've got to give her credit because she never really soured us on him, she didn't talk negative about him, never, ever. And she could have - he wasn't the greatest husband. Or father."

Charles, a man with a dark past as a convicted hitman, faced murder charges thrice and was convicted on two occasions, leading to extended periods in jail. He ultimately passed away at the age of 68 on March 15, 2007, while serving his prison sentence.