Kieran Culkin has achieved another milestone in his career by winning the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor for his riveting role in the film A Real Pain. The ceremony, held on January 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, was not just another awards show for Culkin; it was described as 'the best date night' he could have with his wife, Jazz Charton.
The 42-year-old actor accepted the award with humor and charm, openly admitting, "Oh man, oh thanks. This is incredible. The first acknowledgement I got was a Golden Globe nomination when I was basically a kid... so thanks Golden Globe people, you guys are nuts, keep doing what you’re doing." During his acceptance speech, he added, "My wife and I did this shot of tequila with Mario Lopez, whole speech has gone, terrific Kieran, you're doing fine..." This candid confession lightened the mood and drew laughs from the audience.
Culkin's victory at the Golden Globes follows his notable performance where he portrayed Benji, a charismatic Jewish man on a Holocaust tour along with his cousin, played by Jesse Eisenberg, who also wrote and directed the film. The film, which dives deep with its themes of generational trauma and family ties, has received much-deserved acclaim.
Throughout his speech, Culkin dedicated time to express gratitude to his collaborators, particularly Jesse Eisenberg, stating, "I'm here because Jesse Eisenberg wrote an amazing script. He's a fantastic director and scene partner so anybody who has the opportunity to work with him, just leap at it..." His respect for Eisenberg was clear, reflecting the camaraderie they shared throughout the making of the film.
Among his acknowledgments, Culkin also gave special recognition to his ex-girlfriend Emma Stone, as well as her husband Dave McCary, whose production company was involved with A Real Pain. Kieran said, "Em, Dave and Ally at Fruit Tree, everyone at Search Light, you guys are amazing," spotlighting the professional ties and his willingness to maintain friendly relations.
Culkin's relationship with his wife Jazz was also on display during the ceremony. He humorously thanked her for 'putting up with what she calls my mania'. This personal touch made the actor relatable, and it highlighted his commitment not only to his career but also to his family life. He reassured everyone with, "I'm working on a good therapist now, it's fine. It's not fine, it's a lot of work, we'll see where it goes.”
Reflecting on his Hollywood status, Culkin noted how winning prestigious awards holds special meaning for him, especially considering his long career since his first Golden Globe nomination as a young actor. His triumph on this occasion positions him as not only a seasoned actor but also as one of the prominent figures to watch for potential upcoming Oscars.
With competition from notable actors like Denzel Washington for Gladiator II, Guy Pearce for The Brutalist, Jeremy Strong for The Apprentice, Yura Borisov for Anora, and Edward Norton for A Complete Unknown, Culkin's win marks a decisive moment for him. His captivating performance continues to resonate with audiences and critics alike.
Following his Succession success, where he infused the character of Roman Roy with both brilliance and subtlety, his role in A Real Pain showcases another dimension of his acting prowess. Critics have been eager to see how his portrayal of the emotional and complex Benji will position him during awards season this year.
Before signing off from the stage, Culkin dedicated his award to his longtime manager, saying, "Last but not least, my manager of 30 years now, Emily Gerson Saines, this is yours. I love you mom, bye." This personal dedication encapsulated the entire night’s essence: gratitude, love, and the celebration of significant milestones.
With his triumph at the Golden Globes and the projected Oscar nominations on the horizon, Kieran Culkin is not only riding high on the waves of success but also solidifying his legacy as one of Hollywood's esteemed actors.