Josh Lucas, known for his role in Yellowstone and the new Western Blood For Dust, embarked on an adventurous journey with his 3-year-old son and the boy's mother to Bali, the actor explained to The Hollywood Reporter. Their 2014 excursion was inspired by Josh's participation as a judge in a film contest hosted by IHG Hotels. The contest rewarded him with points that could be exchanged for stays at IHG's luxurious resorts across the globe.
Their initial stop was the charming InterContinental Bali, located on Jimbaran Bay at Bali's southern tip. However, their desire for a more unique jungle experience led them to discover the remarkable Green Village Bali through Airbnb. This eco-friendly community, nestled near Ubud, was built sustainably and in harmony with nature.
Before they could even check-in, the locals assumed their visit was connected to Green School Bali, an unfamiliar concept to Josh's family. As they embarked on a jungle walk, they arrived at a clearing surrounded by towering twisted bamboo structures resembling colossal dinosaurs. Gathered there was John Hardy, the visionary behind the school and these bamboo marvels, who was about to guide them on a rare personal tour.
The campus, a blend of Swiss Family Robinson and Willy Wonka, left a profound impact. John's passion for innovative learning and sustainable practices resonated deeply. The campus featured bamboo and recycled material construction, solar power, water turbines, and student-grown food. Josh and his family instantly thought about enrolling their son, Noah, there in the future.
During the trip, Josh experienced a special moment with his son at Old Man's, a bar and surf spot in Canggu. They found a sense of perfection in the scene of rice fields and Balinese children playing by the ocean. A few years later, amidst growing political divisions in the U.S., Josh and his ex-wife decided to send their son back to Green School Bali, now aged 7. Despite sharing custody, they rented houses near the school and the beach.
Josh himself participated in Bamboo U, an intensive bamboo design and building course. He helped construct a new building for the school alongside Balinese bamboo experts. The experience enriched his connection to Bali's rhythm of life - from challenging drives to serene campus life. The school's emphasis on nature, community, and play over traditional academics, alongside Hindu ceremonies and Balinese traditions, deeply impacted Josh and Noah.
As Bali evolved, maintaining its profound beauty and soul amidst development, Josh found himself immersed in the island's magic. He embraced the moment, detached from politics and entertainment. As news of COVID-19 spread, they left Bali, reflecting on the cultural contrasts and the island's enduring allure.
Josh's time in Bali revealed the contrast between his Western background and the Balinese way of life. He recognized the significance of empathy and simplicity, and his experiences there held a complex and romantic place in his heart. The allure of Bali's people, art, traditions, and nature remains strong, leaving him and his family yearning to return.
While we aren't sure if Lucas will reprise his role as Young John Dutton in the second half of Season 5, you can see him appear sporadically on the series in the first four and a half seasons, all streaming on Peacock.
