In Only the Brave, Josh Brolin plays superintendent Eric Marsh, Miles Teller plays rookie Brendan McDonough, and Jennifer Connelly plays Amanda Marsh, the wife of Eric.
Main cast
- Eric MarshJosh BrolinMain
- Brendan McDonoughMiles TellerMain
- Amanda MarshJennifer ConnellyMain
Supporting cast
- Jesse SteedJames Badge DaleSupp
- Christopher MacKenzieTaylor KitschSupp
- Travis TurbyfillAndie MacDowellSupp
- John ‘Donut’ NelsonScott HazeSupp
- Kevin WoyjeckJake PickingSupp
- Sean MisnerRyan KenneSupp
- Eric’s friend and fire chief (Duane Steinbrink)Jeff BridgesSupp
- Wade ParkerAlex RussellSupp
Guest & voice
- Julian AshcroftBen SchnetzerSupp
- Pat McCartyKenny MillerSupp
- ClaireNatalie HallGuest
- Brendan’s motherPell JamesGuest
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About this cast
Only the Brave is a 2017 biographical fire drama based on the true story of the Granite Mountain Hotshots. The film follows the elite crew as they battle wildfires in Arizona, focusing on the leadership of Eric Marsh and the journey of a troubled rookie, Brendan McDonough. Key cast include Josh Brolin, Miles Teller, and Jennifer Connelly.
FAQs
Who plays Eric Marsh in Only the Brave?
Josh Brolin plays Eric Marsh, the superintendent of the Granite Mountain Hotshots.
Is Only the Brave based on a true story?
Yes, it’s based on the true story of the Granite Mountain Hotshots and the deadly 2013 Yarnell Hill Fire.
Who plays Brendan McDonough in Only the Brave?
Miles Teller plays Brendan McDonough, the only surviving member of the Granite Mountain Hotshots.
What is the rating of Only the Brave?
The film is rated PG-13 in the US and 12A in the UK for intense firefighting scenes and some language.
Who directed Only the Brave?
The film was directed by Joseph Kosinski (also directed Tron: Legacy and Top Gun: Maverick).
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026