
Kieran Culkin continues his award-winning streak, capturing the Best Supporting Actor in a Feature Film prize at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards for his riveting performance in A Real Pain. Known for his ability to dominate awards season, Culkin once again proved his mettle in this poignant film, where he plays Benji, a charming but wayward Jewish man navigating a Holocaust tour in Poland with his cousin. The film, written and directed by Jesse Eisenberg, also stars Eisenberg as Benji’s cousin, adding depth and complexity to their on-screen dynamic.
Kicking off his acceptance speech with humor, Culkin gave a playful nod to Mario Lopez, joking, “My wife and I did a shot of tequila with Mario Lopez—definitely feeling that! Whole speech is gone.” His lightheartedness set the tone for an evening of celebration, marking his second consecutive Golden Globe win. Last year, he took home Best Actor in a TV Drama for his role in Succession’s final season, edging out co-star Jeremy Strong. This year, Strong was also in the running, nominated for The Apprentice.
Culkin’s role in A Real Pain marks his return to film after a brief hiatus, his last being 2021’s No Sudden Move. His performance has already made him a frontrunner in the Oscars race, racking up nominations from prestigious organizations like the Gotham Awards, Critics’ Choice Awards, and Independent Spirit Awards. He’s also won critical acclaim, bagging Supporting Actor honors from the National Board of Review, New York Film Critics Circle, and Los Angeles Film Critics Association.
During his speech, Culkin took a moment to praise Jesse Eisenberg, calling him an exceptional talent both in front of and behind the camera. “If you ever get the chance to work with Jesse, jump at it,” Culkin said, emphasizing Eisenberg’s dual prowess as an actor and director.
The competition in the Best Supporting Actor category was fierce, with nominees including Yura Borisov (Anora), Edward Norton (A Complete Unknown), Guy Pearce (The Brutalist), and Denzel Washington (Gladiator II). However, Culkin’s nuanced and magnetic performance in A Real Pain secured his place at the top, cementing his status as one of the industry’s most compelling talents.