Kieran Culkin has cemented his place as one of Hollywood’s most compelling actors, evolving from a child star into a critically acclaimed performer.
After years of standout performances, Culkin achieved the pinnacle of film success last night by winning his first Academy Award, solidifying himself as one of the best working actors in the industry.
Culkin has always been a talented actor in successful films and TV shows. He was initially recognized for supporting roles in films like Igby Goes Down and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World, and he gained widespread acclaim as Roman Roy in HBO’s Succession.
His performance in A Real Pain earned him his first Oscar last night, marking a career-defining moment. With an impressive filmography, a Golden Globe, and now an Academy Award, Culkin has established himself as one of Hollywood’s most compelling actors.
Born on September 30, 1982, Kieran Culkin grew up in the shadow of his older brother, Macaulay Culkin, who achieved worldwide fame with Home Alone. However, Kieran quickly carved his path, showing remarkable depth and versatility as an actor.
His career began in the early '90s with minor roles, including Home Alone (1990) and its sequel, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992). He later gained widespread recognition for his role as Jason "Igby" Slocumb, Jr. in Igby Goes Down (2002), which earned him a Golden Globe nomination.
But it was HBO’s hit series Succession, where he portrayed the sharp-tongued and unpredictable Roman Roy. His performance garnered multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, ultimately winning a Golden Globe in 2024.
In 2024, Culkin starred in "A Real Pain," a buddy road comedy-drama directed by Jesse Eisenberg. The film follows two cousins on a Jewish heritage tour in Poland, exploring themes of family and history.
Culkin's portrayal of a motor-mouthed American tourist was lauded by critics and audiences alike. On March 2, 2025, he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor at the 97th Academy Awards.
Academy Award (2025): Best Supporting Actor (A Real Pain)
Golden Globe (2024): Best Actor in a Drama Series (Succession)
Critics’ Choice Television Award (2023): Best Supporting Actor (Succession)
Screen Actors Guild Award (2022): Outstanding Ensemble (Succession)
While Succession propelled him to global recognition, Culkin has delivered numerous unforgettable performances on the big screen. Some of his best movies include:
A dark coming-of-age comedy that showcased his dramatic chops.
A cult classic in which he played Scott’s witty and charismatic best friend, Wallace Wells.
A powerful drama in which he starred alongside Anna Paquin and Matt Damon.
A critically acclaimed crime thriller directed by Steven Soderbergh.
His Oscar-winning role, a performance that cemented his place among the greats.
Culkin maintains a relatively private personal life compared to many Hollywood stars. He has been married to Jazz Charton since 2013, and the couple shares two children. Despite growing up in the entertainment industry, he has managed to avoid the pitfalls of fame, focusing on his craft and family life.
Kieran Culkin has built an impressive financial portfolio as one of Hollywood's most sought-after actors. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is approximately $10 million. His role in Succession reportedly earned him around $350,000 per episode in later seasons, significantly contributing to his wealth. With his recent Oscar win, Culkin’s value in the industry is expected to rise, opening doors to even more lucrative opportunities.
With an Oscar now in his collection, Culkin’s career is poised for even greater heights. Fans eagerly await his next project, whether on the big screen or in another gripping television role. Given his track record of selecting unique and challenging roles, there’s no doubt that he will continue to surprise and impress audiences worldwide.
Kieran Culkin’s journey from child actor to Academy Award-winning star is an inspiring story of perseverance, talent, and undeniable charisma. His latest accolade only reaffirms his status as one of the finest actors of his generation, ensuring that his talent and legacy will endure for years to come.