Oscar-nominated actor Woody Harrelson, known for iconic roles in Natural Born Killers, The Hunger Games, Cheers, and No Country for Old Men, discovered a shocking truth at just twelve years old—his father, Charles Voyde Harrelson, was a convicted hitman.

In 1979, Charles was sentenced to two life terms for assassinating federal judge John H. Wood Jr., the first federal judge killed in the 20th century. Paid $250,000 by a drug dealer awaiting trial, Charles was captured after a six-hour police standoff. He admitted to the murder and even claimed involvement in JFK’s assassination, though the latter was widely dismissed.

Woody’s father wasn’t present during his childhood, having left the family when Woody was seven. Still, the actor later reconnected with him and spent millions trying to prove his innocence. He believed Charles didn’t receive a fair trial and suspected he may have been working undercover for the CIA.

“How do I feel about him? I love him. I’m very fond of him,” Woody shared in an interview. Despite the dark past, he remained a devoted son. Charles Harrelson died in prison in 2007, leaving behind a son who never stopped seeking the truth.