It was all celebrations for Kieran Culkin as the actor scooped up the award for Best Supporting Actor at the 97th Academy Awards on March 2, 2025. Having already earned a BAFTA, Golden Globe, and Critics' Choice Award for his role in Jesse Eisenberg’s A Real Pain, Culkin stole the spotlight not only with his incredible performance but also with his heartfelt and humorous acceptance speech, where he included his wife Jazz Charton through his nostalgic storytelling.
During his emotional moment at the Dolby Theater, Culkin reminisced about a promise made by Jazz if he was ever lucky enough to win the coveted Oscar trophy. He began by referencing his speech from the past year’s Emmy Awards, where he passionately declared his desire for another child. "About a year ago, I was on a stage like this and I very stupidly, publicly said, ‘I want a third kid from her because she said if I won the award she would give me the kid,’" he shared, drawing laughter from the audience.
The camera captured Jazz's reaction as she smiled, nodding along to the humorous claims about her unexpected agreement. "Turns out she said this because she didn’t think I was gonna win," Culkin joked, keeping the room light-hearted.
Culkin recounted the hilarious exchange they had afterwards: "She goes, ‘Oh God, I did saythat! I guess I owe you a third kid.’" Not missing the chance to push the envelope, Culkin replied to her admission, stating, "Really, I want four." The audience erupted with laughter as Jazz’s reaction was captured—her expression showing excitement mixed with shock at the suggestion of another baby.
Finally, he addressed Jazz directly, saying with warmth and humor, "But I just have this to say to you, Jazz, love of my life, ye of little faith – No pressure, I love you, I’m really sorry I did this again, and let’s get cracking on those kids. What do you say?" The playful tone of his speech not only entertained the attendees but also showcased the affection and the pact they made.
The couple already has two incredible children: five-year-old daughter Kinsey Sioux and three-year-old son Wilder Wolf. Their relationship began back at a bar in New York City back in 2012, blossoming quickly before they tied the knot the following year during a spontaneous road trip.
Culkin's win at the Oscars came on the heels of his success at the SAG Awards, Critics' Choice Awards, and the Golden Globes, where he has been celebrated not only for his remarkable acting chops but also for his charm and wit during acceptance speeches. Among the other notable nominees for Best Supporting Actor were Yura Borisov for Anora, Edward Norton for A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce for The Brutalist, and his own Succession co-star Jeremy Strong, who faced some tough competition.
The charm of the Oscars this year was not just about the bling and accolades; it was also filled with moments of joy, laughter, and now, expanded family aspirations sparked by Culkin's off-the-cuff remarks to his wife. His heartfelt acknowledgment of Jazz and their family connections provided not just memorable entertainment but also relatable themes of love and commitment during what tends to be high-pressure situations.
Jazz, who has previously been seen cheering for her husband from the audience, responded to his surprise proposal during his acceptance speech with laughter and apparent agreement, highlighting the strong bond they share both as partners and co-parents. The vulnerability Culkin showcased as he wove family aspirations with career successes struck important chords with viewers everywhere.
With his Oscar acceptance speech, Kieran Culkin reminded everyone not only about the significance of awards but also about the power of love and family, leaving audiences wondering whether the Culkin household will soon expand as they prepare to welcome beautiful chaos once more.