Kieran Culkin has earned a prestigious nomination at the 2025 Academy Awards for his standout performance in A Real Pain, marking a significant milestone in his career. Culkin plays a central role in the 2024 comedy-drama, which was directed and written by actor Jesse Eisenberg, renowned for his work in Now You See Me.
The 97th Academy Award nominations were revealed today, and Culkin secured a well-deserved place in the category of Best Supporting Actor. He joins his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong, who has also earned a nomination for his performance in The Apprentice. Other nominees for Best Supporting Actor include Guy Pearce for The Brutalist, Edward Norton for A Complete Unknown, and Yura Borisov for Anora.
At 42 years old, Culkin has built an impressive career in the entertainment industry. He made his acting debut as a child star in the iconic Home Alone films, alongside his brother Macaulay Culkin. His rise to fame continued with roles in films like Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, directed by Edgar Wright, but it was his portrayal of Roman Roy in the hit HBO series Succession that solidified his status as a prominent actor in Hollywood. The show, created by Jesse Armstrong, is celebrated for its gripping storytelling and strong performances.
Culkin’s nomination for A Real Pain comes after decades of hard work, and his emotional performance in this film has resonated with both critics and audiences alike. The movie follows the story of two cousins, Benji and David, who embark on a journey to Poland to honor their late grandmother. A Real Pain is a heartfelt exploration of family and loss, with Culkin’s role being central to the emotional weight of the narrative.
In addition to Culkin’s recognition, Eisenberg also received an Academy Award nomination in the Best Original Screenplay category for A Real Pain. With these nominations, both Culkin and Eisenberg continue to cement their place in the film industry, and their collaboration on A Real Pain has proven to be a winning combination.
The 2025 Academy Awards are set to be a thrilling event, and with Culkin’s well-deserved recognition, it’s clear that his talent and dedication to his craft have earned him a spot among the best in Hollywood.
