In a world where actors often get typecast in one genre or character type, Pedro Pascal stands out as a true chameleon.
With striking looks, undeniable talent and an infectious charm, Pedro Pascal has become a beloved figure in film and television, and across social media.
Indeed, he recently made Time’s 2023 list of the ‘100 Most Influential People in the World’. Celebrated for acclaimed roles in smash-hit series like Game of Thrones, The Mandalorian and The Last of Us, it’s taken two decades for the actor to find a perfect balance. His has been a journey of unwavering perseverance and self-belief.
Humble beginnings
Born in Santiago, Chile, when Pedro was one years old his parents sought political asylum in Denmark during the turbulent reign of Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet. The family later relocated to the US, first to Texas, then to California in his teens. This early experience of displacement and adaptation would later serve as a wellspring to draw from for the actor.
“Looking back, so much of it only seems to present itself as an opportunity. When my parents ended up on a list of pardoned exiles and were able to go back to Chile, it came with enormous families on both sides, which was missing from the experience of growing up in the States,” he reveals.
“I guess it’s only in middle age where it feels like it can be emotionally challenging to accept that there isn’t anywhere to plant my flag as an individual. Everywhere is home and nowhere is home. But that also still feels like a good thing to me. It’s often framed as a disadvantage in our culture, but it’s an advantage in character, and in perspective, and in outlook.”
The actor’s journey to stardom began at the Orange County School of the Arts in California, where he honed his acting skills. He went on to study acting at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, where he was able to immerse himself in the world of theatre, and graduated in 1997. It was here that he developed a deep appreciation for the craft and a passion for storytelling.
“I have the cliché ‘struggling actor’ story,” he says. “I was waiting tables in New York, went out to Los Angeles soon after graduation to get some jobs, but it didn’t work out. I wanted to cut my teeth in professional theatre, so I came back to New York. It made my journey a longer one, but I really wanted to excel.”
The dadalorian prevails
Now, after two decades, Pedro is gaining fame and almost unanimous praise. After establishing himself as a respected stage actor, it was his transition to television that would change his career trajectory.
Being cast as Oberyn Martell in season four of HBO’s Game of Thrones brought him widespread recognition and adoration from fans. His portrayal of the charismatic and fearless Prince of Dorne left an indelible mark on the series.
However, it is Pedro’s portrayal of the main character, Din Djarin, in the Star Wars series The Mandalorian that solidified him as a household name. The mysterious and stoic bounty hunter – who guards the beloved Grogu – became an instant fan favourite for lovers of the iconic sci-fi movies. This role not only showcased Pascal’s talent but also demonstrated his ability to convey complex emotions behind a helmet. “There’s always new things to learn, which is unique in that you wouldn’t expect it from an armoured, faceless character.”
Pedro gives props to the stunt work that Lateef Crowder, Brendan Wayne and Barry Lowin did within the suit, and the physical language they contributed to the character. “It was this kind of community, collaborative effort of making an engaging lead character,” Hollywood’s new favourite hero explains.
“He’s not a talkative character. And at the same time, it’s really important that when he is forced to express himself, that it be really, really true within the whole picture … in order to ultimately keep us engaged and invited into the story. And we keep discovering new ways to do that.”
Famed and unphased
What makes Pedro Pascal truly exceptional is his ability to seamlessly shift from one genre and character to another. From Narcos to Wonder Woman 1984, from intense action to heartfelt drama, he effortlessly adapts to the requirements of each role, proving himself a versatile actor who has dodged being typecast.
The Last of Us (a video game he admitted he had never heard of) was where Pedro really took the crown for being the face of the 21st century’s ‘new kind of hero’. “I realised in reading the first two episodes that once Joel met Ellie, it was a part that you undeniably had to chase and play,” he says.
He skyrocketed to a new level of fame overnight after playing Joel, but Pedro doesn’t really pay much attention to this. “I’ve remained really curious about it because I think that it’s something that if you don’t water the garden, it won’t grow. You know what I mean? So, in my mind, I’m like, ‘Don’t give it [fame] any attention’. Maybe I’m lying to myself a little bit, or it’s just not that big of a deal. So, I don’t worry about it. It’ll pass.”
Transforming narratives
In the new short film Strange Way of Life (which premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival), Pedro Pascal and Ethan Hawke star as lovers in Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar’s queer Western – a reimagined take on 2005’s boundary-breaking, Oscar-winning Brokeback Mountain. The 30-minute film has been labelled as “scrumptious” and “subtle yet sensational” by critics, and Pedro is extremely proud of his role in this project.
“I don’t imagine sexual chemistry as something to approach. It’s simply a matter of playing the character. Pedro [the director] put his trust in us to inhabit the story, as he felt so much of the work was accomplished by casting. I think there’s a disarming and playful sexiness to everything Pedro does, so it’s exciting to step into that world. It also helped to have a scene partner as good as Ethan!”
Beyond the silver screen
On screen he’s known for being somewhat of a father figure, however unconventional, and in real life Pedro is an avid advocate for various refugee causes, using his platform to shed light on social and political issues. His background as an asylum seeker has informed his activism, and he is known for his commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
His relationship with his transgender sister, Lux Pascal, is a heart-warming testament to the bond of love and acceptance within their family. Pedro has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and transgender visibility, which is deeply intertwined with his sister’s journey.
“She is and has always been one of the most powerful people and personalities I’ve ever known,” he says. “My protective side is lethal, but I need her more than she needs me.”
Pedro proudly stands by her side, using his platform to promote understanding and compassion. Their sibling relationship serves as a powerful example of acceptance and unconditional love, not only within their own family but also for the countless individuals and families navigating similar experiences.
Pedro Pascal’s journey from a Chilean refugee to a Hollywood A-lister has had an enormous influence on his talent, dedication and charisma. His ability to inhabit a multitude of characters, paired with his authenticity and advocacy work, have endeared him to audiences worldwide. As he continues to conquer new roles – next up is a part in Gladiator 2 – one thing is clear: he is a star who will continue to shine brightly for years to come.
Get to know Pedro
Birth Name:
José Pedro Balmaceda Pascal
DOB:
2 April 1975
Place of Birth:
Santiago, Chile
Biggest Influence:
Nicholas Cage
Hollywood Bestie:
Oscar Isaac
First Acting Role:
Eddie in Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1999)
Favourite Sweet Snack:
Bounty coconut chocolate bars
Favourite Sci-Fi Films:
Solaris (1972), Aliens (1986) and Children of Men (2006)
Words by: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photography: Gallo/Getty Images, Supplied
