Pedro Pascal surprises with chaotic drunk speech and upset win at 2024 SAG Awards

Upset at the 2024 SAG Awards: Pedro Pascal beats ‘Succession’ stars

Pedro Pascal’s Chaotic Drunk Speech Stole the Show

By the News Desk

Published Feb. 24, 2024, 9:49 p.m. ET

Pedro Pascal delivered an unexpected surprise at the 2024 SAG Awards, snatching the award for “best male actor in a drama series” from the stars of “Succession.” The 48-year-old actor, known for his role in HBO’s “The Last of Us,” overshadowed the likes of Billy Crudup, Brian Cox, Kieran Culkin, and Matthew MacFadyen, who were all considered favorites for the prestigious accolade.

Pascal, nominated for his performance in the bleak apocalyptic epic, emerged victorious in what can only be described as a true plot twist, a twist worthy of an episode from the hit TV series “Succession” itself.

‘The Last of Us’: Pascal’s Unlikely Win

The Last of Us series, helmed by HBO, explores a post-apocalyptic America, where Pascal’s character, Joel, acts as the guiding light for a struggling teen girl. Craig Mazin, the showrunner, expressed the need for someone the audience could identify with, an actor who could portray an old-fashioned masculinity and gravitas, mixed with an underlying vulnerability, making Pascal the perfect fit.

Shocking Acceptance Speech

A visibly surprised Pascal took the stage to confront the crowd, admitting he had indulged in a few drinks, assuming he would not have to make a speech that night. The laughs soon gave way to genuine gratitude, mingled with self-deprecating jokes, as he struggled to remember the names of his fellow nominees. He thanked HBO for employing him, joking that since he had no other skills or interests, the least they could do was give him a job. Amusingly, he ended his speech by claiming he would have a panic attack and promptly departed the stage.

Friendship and Rivalry with Kieran Culkin

Pascal’s lighthearted rivalry with Kieran Culkin, who appeared in “Succession,” added a playful note to the whole affair. Pascal jokingly threatened to “rag” Culkin during their backstage conversation with “Queer Eye” host, Tan France. The banter intensified as Pascal declared he would even “make out with Kieran” in jest.

This bond of friendship traces back to Pascal’s early acting days, when he received praise for his work from Culkin. The two actors were in Manhattan, and Culkin, already famous for his role in “Igby Goes Down,” commended Pascal’s performance in a play.

Be sure to check out our latest coverage of the SAG Awards and catch up on other award triumphs and surprising upsets this season!