Kieran Culkin Wins First Oscar for "A Real Pain"
Kieran Culkin, best known for his role as Roman Roy in the hit HBO series Succession, took home his first Academy Award at the 2025 Oscars. The 42-year-old actor won Best Supporting Actor for his performance in the dark comedy, A Real Pain, a film about two cousins journeying through Poland to commemorate their grandmother. This win capped off a successful awards season for Culkin, who garnered significant attention for his role.
A Memorable Acceptance Speech
Culkin's acceptance speech was a highlight of the night, blending humor and heartfelt emotion. He paid tribute to his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong, praising his performance in The Apprentice, a moment that included a censored expletive. He also shared a charming anecdote about his wife, Jazz Charton, revealing a promise she made to have a fourth child if he won an Oscar, following his previous Emmy win. The moment provided a lighthearted and endearing contrast to the more serious speeches of the evening.
"A Real Pain" and Culkin's Career
A Real Pain, directed by Jesse Eisenberg, received critical acclaim. Culkin's performance in the film garnered praise for its vulnerability and humor. The win marks a significant milestone in his already established career, solidifying his status as a respected and versatile actor. His prior Emmy win in 2024 further demonstrates his consistent talent and performance.
The 2025 Oscars: A Night of Surprises
The 2025 Oscars were filled with surprises. Anora, a whirlwind drama about a New York stripper and a wealthy Russian's son, swept the board, winning multiple awards including Best Picture and Best Director. Other notable winners included Adrien Brody (Best Actor), Zoe Saldana (Best Supporting Actress), and Mikey Madison (Best Actress), a relative newcomer who delivered a powerful acceptance speech honoring the sex worker community.
Culkin's Win: A Personal and Professional Triumph
Kieran Culkin's Oscar win is a testament to his talent and dedication. His memorable acceptance speech and the success of A Real Pain mark not just a career highlight, but a personal triumph underscored by his heartfelt comments about family and his career. The evening highlighted the unpredictable nature of the Academy Awards, showcasing a variety of talented individuals and films.