Kieran Culkin has made headlines after winning the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at the 2025 Academy Awards for his standout performance in Jesse Eisenberg's film, A Real Pain. The victory, celebrated during the star-studded ceremony, highlights Culkin's remarkable talent as he triumphed over notable competitors, including Edward Norton and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong.
Throughout the award season, Culkin had positioned himself as the frontrunner for this coveted accolade, securing wins at prestigious events such as the BAFTAS, Screen Actors Guild Awards, and Golden Globes. His win at the Oscars not only cements his rise as one of Hollywood's most gifted actors but also marks his first Oscar nomination.
Vibrant and full of humor, Culkin's acceptance speech captivated the audience as he expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the film's director: "Jesse Eisenberg: thank you for this movie, you're a genius. I’ll never say this again, so soak it up.” Adding to the emotional weight of the moment, he conveyed his thanks to his mother and stepfather, acknowledging their support with, “You’re really good people, and you gave it your best shot.”
Perhaps the most memorable part of his speech came when he turned to his wife, Jazz Charton, and revealed their running joke about having more children. Recalling their conversation from the previous Emmy Awards, Culkin recalled, "After the show, we're walking through a parking lot … and she goes, 'Oh, God, I did saythat!' I guess I owe you a third kid.” The actor then humorously escalated the stakes by declaring, "Really, I want four." This moment prompted laughter and gasps from the audience, showcasing the couple's playful dynamic.
His acceptance marked not just the end of competition for the night but also celebrated the cinematic experience presented by the film. A Real Pain, though it did not receive a nomination for Best Picture, earned recognition for its inventive storytelling and was nominated for Best Original Screenplay. Critics praised the film for its ability to blend humor and seriousness, exploring themes of familial connection and heritage.
Emily Ruuskanen of Far Out Magazine noted, “A Real Pain masterfully blends both humour and darkness, reflecting our reluctance to confront suffering.” The film follows Culkin's character, Benji, as he reconnects with his cousin David, showcasing the contrasting personalities and their experiences through the Jewish heritage tour around Poland.
While Kieran Culkin's win was celebrated, the night also witnessed the strong performance of the film Anora, which took home multiple awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Mikey Madison’s portrayal of a young woman entangled in unexpected romance.
The Oscars, hosted this year with elegance and flair, featured stellar performances, including Ariana Grande's rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow, setting the tone for the night. The event honored both the shining stars of Hollywood and the films they represented. When Culkin's name was announced as the winner, the excitement was palpable, with Robert Downey Jr. humorously presenting the award, making light-hearted jabs at both Culkin and previous award nominees, creating memorable moments throughout the evening.
For Culkin, this Oscar win may very well be the beginning of something even greater. It showcases his ability to tackle complex roles, and with a bright future suggested by this recognition, audiences eagerly anticipate what he will pursue next.
His emotional aspect as he spoke about family and future plans stood out against the backdrop of professional accolades, highlighting the importance of personal connections amid dramatic fame. The aftermath of Culkin's acceptance continues to reverberate as fans and industry insiders reflect on his winning streak.