Kieran Culkin Wins Hearts at SAG Awards 2025
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Kieran Culkin stole the show at the 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards with his hilarious and charming acceptance speech. The 42-year-old star clinched the outstanding performance by a male actor in a supporting role for his performance in “A Real Pain” at the 31st annual SAG Awards held at Los Angeles’ Shrine Auditorium on Sunday, February 23.
Competing against talented nominees including Jonathan Bailey for “Wicked,” Yura Borisov for “Anora,” Edward Norton for “A Complete Unknown,” and Jeremy Strong for “The Apprentice,” Culkin brought his A-game not only on screen but also on stage during his acceptance speech.
During his address, Culkin lightened the mood by joking about the weight of the trophy and playfully teasing fellow actor Adrien Brody about the time limit for speeches. Culkin humorously admitted that he hadn’t prepared anything for his speech, leading to some delightful impromptu rambling that had the audience in stitches.
Acknowledging the significance of the award, Culkin expressed his gratitude and thanked key individuals, including the movie’s writer-director Jesse Eisenberg, his family, and more. Culkin’s endearing and spontaneous speech showcased his wit and humility, endearing him to the audience and fans alike.
In “A Real Pain,” Culkin shares the screen with Eisenberg, playing cousins on a poignant journey through Poland to honour their grandmother. The film has garnered critical acclaim, with Culkin receiving high praise for his compelling portrayal. This marks Culkin’s second consecutive SAG Award nomination following his role as Roman Roy in “Succession.”
Jonathan Bailey, known for his role in “Wicked,” joins a stellar cast in the film adaptation of the Tony-winning Broadway musical helmed by Jon M. Chu. Appearing alongside Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, Bailey’s performance has garnered attention across various award shows, including the BAFTAs and Critics Choice Awards.
Yura Borisov shines in “Anora,” a gripping tale directed by Sean Baker, where he portrays the character Igor. Borisov, a Moscow-born actor, captivates audiences with his performance, earning nominations at prestigious events like the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards.
Edward Norton delivers a standout performance in “A Complete Unknown,” depicting folk legend Pete Seeger alongside co-star Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan. Norton’s portrayal has earned him a spot among the nominees, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Jeremy Strong takes on the role of attorney Roy Cohn in “The Apprentice,” a riveting portrayal of Donald Trump’s early career. Strong’s compelling performance has garnered praise and recognition, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable actor.
As the awards season progresses, these talented actors continue to captivate audiences with their exceptional performances and portrayals on the silver screen. Their dedication to their craft and ability to bring characters to life have earned them well-deserved accolades and nominations.
With each role they undertake, these actors showcase their talent and versatility, leaving a lasting impression on both critics and viewers alike. As they continue to grace the screen with their presence, audiences eagerly anticipate their future projects and performances, eager to witness their continued success in the world of entertainment.
The 31st annual Screen Actors Guild Awards proved to be a night of celebration and recognition for these outstanding performers, highlighting their contributions to the industry and reaffirming their status as exemplary talents in the world of cinema.