The 97th Academy Awards was a night of glitz, glamour, and unforgettable moments, but one moment stood out for fans of Kieran Culkin. The beloved actor took home the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in “A Real Pain“, cementing his place as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and talented stars. With his trademark charm and wit, Culkin delivered a heartfelt and hilarious acceptance speech that left the audience in stitches. Let’s dive into the details of his big win and why this moment was so special.
Kieran Culkin’s Journey to Oscar Glory
Kieran Culkin has been a fan favorite for years, but his performance in “A Real Pain” took his career to new heights. Playing Benji, the charismatic yet troubled cousin in Jesse Eisenberg’s comedy-drama, Culkin brought depth, humor, and vulnerability to the role. His portrayal of a man grappling with his past while navigating a poignant journey of Jewish heritage in Poland resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.
Culkin’s win was hardly a surprise—he had already swept the awards season, taking home a Golden Globe, Bafta, and Screen Actors Guild Award. But the Oscar was the crowning achievement, a testament to his incredible talent and dedication to his craft.
A Hilarious and Heartfelt Acceptance Speech
True to form, Kieran Culkin delivered an acceptance speech that was equal parts touching and laugh-out-loud funny. He began by thanking Robert Downey Jr., who presented him with the award, and gave a shoutout to his Succession co-star, Jeremy Strong, calling him “fucking great” in The Apprentice.
Culkin also thanked his agent of 30 years, calling him “the best in the business,” and praised Jesse Eisenberg, the writer and director of “A Real Pain”, as “a genius.” He didn’t forget his family, either, thanking his mother and stepfather for “trying to raise me” and joking, “You’re good people, and you gave it your best shot.”
But the highlight of his speech came when he recalled a playful promise from his wife, Jazz Charton. After winning an Emmy last year, she agreed to have a third child if he won an Oscar. With a twinkle in his eye, Culkin said, “I held my hand out, and she shook it,” before declaring, “No pressure, but let’s get cracking on those kids.”
A Career-Defining Role in “A Real Pain”
In “A Real Pain“, Culkin plays Benji, a character who balances humor and heartbreak in equal measure. The film, which follows two cousins on a journey through Poland to explore their Jewish heritage, has been praised for its poignant storytelling and superb performances.
The Guardian’s Peter Bradshaw called Culkin’s performance “superb,” highlighting his ability to “conjure comic moments from serious situations.” This blend of humor and depth is what makes Culkin such a compelling actor, and his Oscar win is a well-deserved recognition of his talent.
From Igby Goes Down to Succession and Beyond
Kieran Culkin has come a long way since his breakout role in Igby Goes Down over 20 years ago. While many know him as the mischievous Roman Roy from the hit TV series Succession, Culkin has consistently proven his range as an actor in both film and television.
His role in Succession earned him numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe, Emmy, and Screen Actors Guild Award. But with his Oscar win for “A Real Pain“, Culkin has solidified his status as one of the most talented actors of his generation.
A Night to Remember at the 97th Academy Awards
The 97th Academy Awards was a celebration of talent, creativity, and storytelling, and Kieran Culkin’s win was one of the night’s most memorable moments. His heartfelt and hilarious speech, combined with his incredible performance in “A Real Pain,” made it clear why he’s such a beloved figure in Hollywood.
As Culkin continues to take on challenging and diverse roles, one thing is certain: his star will only continue to rise. And who knows? With his wife’s playful promise, we might just see a fourth Culkin child soon!
Read More: