At the 2025 Academy Awards, Kieran Culkin clinched the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in “A Real Pain.” His acceptance speech was a blend of heartfelt gratitude and personal anecdotes, capturing the audience’s attention with its authenticity and humor.
Taking the stage, Culkin began by acknowledging the surreal nature of the moment. He expressed disbelief at his journey, stating, “I have no idea how I got here. I’ve just been acting my whole life.”
He extended gratitude to his long-time manager, Emily Gerson Sainz, highlighting her unwavering support over three decades.
Turning his attention to “A Real Pain,” Culkin praised director Jesse Eisenberg, humorously labeling him a “genius” and admitting he wouldn’t repeat the compliment in person.
He also acknowledged the film’s production teams, including Searchlight and Topic Studios, for their dedication to the project.
A particularly touching moment arose when Culkin addressed his wife, Jazz Charton. He recounted a playful agreement they had made: if he won an Emmy, they would consider a third child; if he secured an Oscar, a fourth. Reflecting on this pact, Culkin shared, “I held my hand out, she shook it, and I have not brought it up once until just now.”
The audience responded with laughter and applause, appreciating the candid glimpse into their personal life.
Culkin’s speech also included a moment of spontaneity when he dropped an expletive while praising fellow nominee Jeremy Strong, leading to a brief censorship during the live broadcast.
Despite this, the authenticity of his words resonated with viewers and attendees alike.
In conclusion, Culkin’s acceptance speech at the 2025 Oscars was a memorable blend of gratitude, humor, and personal revelation. By sharing the promise with his wife, he offered a heartfelt and genuine moment that endeared him further to audiences worldwide.
