Rio Hudson and Rani Rose: The Real Story Behind Goldie Hawn’s Granddaughters

Rio Hudson and Rani Rose: The Real Story Behind Goldie Hawn’s Granddaughters

When you look at Goldie Hawn, you see that megawatt smile that basically defined Hollywood for decades. But honestly, if you want to see that same spark today, you’ve gotta look at her granddaughters. It’s wild. Genetics in that family aren’t just strong; they’re practically a copy-paste job.

While the world knows Kate Hudson and Oliver Hudson, there’s a new generation coming up. Specifically, Rio Laura Hudson and Rani Rose Hudson. People are obsessed with how much these girls look like Goldie. It's more than just the blonde hair. It's the vibe.

Rio Hudson: The Mini-Me Taking Over the Red Carpet

Rio Laura Hudson is Oliver Hudson’s youngest. She was born in July 2013, which makes her 12 now. For a long time, Oliver and his wife Erinn Bartlett kept their kids somewhat out of the blinding glare of the paparazzi. But lately? Rio has been stepping out.

At the July 2025 premiere of Happy Gilmore 2 in New York, Rio basically broke the internet. She stood next to her "Glamma" (that’s what Goldie calls herself) and the resemblance was actually haunting. Same nose. Same "Goldie smile."

Goldie herself doesn't think the acting bug is a choice for Rio. She recently told Access Hollywood that it’s just in the genes. "I don't think we have a choice, frankly," Goldie said. She compared it to Kate. When Kate wanted to act, there was no stopping her. It looks like Rio is on that same path.

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But Oliver is being the "protective dad" about it. He’s mentioned they’re starting with plays. He wants her to have a childhood before the Hollywood machine swallows her up. She’s a dancer. She loves to perform. It's inevitable, really.

Rani Rose: The "Precise" Little Helper

Then you have Rani Rose Hudson. She’s Kate Hudson’s daughter with Danny Fujikawa, born in October 2018. She’s 7 now.

Rani is named after Danny’s father, Ron, and Kate has been super vocal about how much she loves having a daughter after raising two boys, Ryder and Bingham.

Why Rani is Different

  • The Kitchen Connection: Unlike the older kids who might be into gaming or sports, Rani is a fixture in the kitchen. Kate calls her a "precise" little helper.
  • The Fashionista: She’s already requesting rainbow makeup looks and modeling outfits for "home fashion weeks."
  • The Grandparent Bond: For her 4th birthday, Goldie and Kurt Russell actually dressed up as a prince and princess. Like, full-on costumes. Goldie called her "the real queen."

Goldie once said that when your daughter has a daughter, "it's a big deal." You can see that connection every time they post a photo together. It’s a different kind of bond than with the grandsons.

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The "Brain Buddies" Project

If you want proof that Goldie is already putting her grandkids to work—in a cute way—look at Brain Buddies.

Released in May 2025, it’s an educational short film about mental health. Goldie produced it. But the "talent"? That was Rio, Wilder, and Bodhi (Oliver’s kids). They voiced the characters.

Goldie was the director. She loved how they followed her cues. It wasn't just grandma time; it was professional. It’s clear she’s grooming them to understand the industry, but also to use their platform for the MindUP foundation's goals.

What Most People Get Wrong About the Hawn-Russell Clan

People always assume it’s a typical Hollywood family. It’s not.

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They are incredibly tight-knit. They live near each other. They vacation together in Colorado or Greece every single year. When you see a "rare" red carpet photo, it’s usually because they actually wanted to go together, not because a publicist forced it.

There’s also this misconception that Kurt Russell is just "the step-grandpa." Nah. To Rio and Rani, he’s Gogo. He’s just as involved as Goldie. He’s the one picking out the gifts and playing along with the dress-up games.

What’s Next for the Hawn Granddaughters?

We’re likely going to see Rio Hudson in a professional acting role sooner rather than later. The buzz from the Happy Gilmore 2 premiere suggests she’s already being scouted.

As for Rani, she’s currently dealing with "seven-year-old problems." Kate recently joked that Rani is trying to "manipulate" her into getting an iPad. Even the grandkids of Hollywood royalty have to negotiate for screen time.

Next Steps for Fans:
If you’re looking to keep up with the next generation, follow Oliver Hudson’s Instagram for the funny, "real" side of Rio’s life. For the more aesthetic, fashion-forward updates on Rani, Kate’s feed is the place to be. Also, keep an eye on the Goldie Hawn Foundation’s website; they often feature the grandkids in new mental health awareness content.