Pedro Pascal was well into his acting career when Hollywood stardom finally beckoned, and he’s determined to make the most of it while it lasts.

Photo by Matt Sayles/Shutterstock for SAG (14360642cv)

Pedro Pascal has steadily risen to international fame through a raft of standout performances in major television series and films.

His early career took off with emerging roles in the likes of The Good Wife, CSI, Law & Order, Lights Out, Red Widow and Graceland, yet it was the portrayal of Oberyn Martell in the fourth season of Game of Thrones, in 2014, that proved to be a seminal point in the acting progression of the Chilean.

And taking on the lead role of Javier Peña in Narcos further cemented the actor’s reputation for taking on intense, layered performances.

Pascal’s career reached new heights with his leading gambits in the Star Wars franchise spin-off The Mandalorian, which started in 2019, and the video-game adaptation The Last of Us in 2023, where he took on iconic characters that expanded his reputation.

His portrayal of Joel in the latter show particularly resonated with audiences, as he brought emotional depth to a post-apocalyptic world; while his role as the masked Mandalorian combined mystery with strength. Both roles have earned him critical acclaim and legions of dedicated fans.

Now, he’s in Marvel mode as Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic in The Fantastic Four: First Steps this summer, and Avengers: Doomsday, in 2026.

Despite his busy acting schedule, the 50-year-old has maintained a private personal life. He’s never married and has said humorously, “I’m never gonna be a daddy!”

Pascal spoke to us about his latest roles, the challenges of Hollywood and why it’s important to find time out of the spotlight to be able to recharge and reset.

How did you prepare for the physical demands of the upcoming Marvel movies?

In much the same way as Gladiator II, I worked with a team of trainers to build up the strength and endurance needed. There are multiple fight [and] exercise sequences and stunts that require months of preparation, but after a while you come to terms with not just the demands, but your own abilities.

Did you feel you were too old to take on these sorts of roles?

Never too old, but I do understand where you are coming from.

I’ve always said age is in the mind, and I firmly believe that. In this industry you see 30-year-olds acting 50 and 50-year-olds acting 30—and younger! It really doesn’t matter. Providing you are fit and healthy you can put your mind (and your body) to pretty much anything.

What was it like to get the call for Mr. Fantastic?

It honestly knocked me sideways. These are characters that have existed long before me and will exist long after me—so the idea of stepping into that world is equal parts thrilling and terrifying.

I think what’s so special about First Steps is that it’s not just about powers or costumes—it’s about messy, complicated people trying to figure out who they are while the world’s watching. And playing a character like this, in a story like this, feels weirdly personal. There’s something deeply human underneath all the sci-fi and spectacle, and I think that was always going to be important for me.

Isn’t there a trend now from Marvel and DC Comics to put more substance behind the characters?

Yes, I think that’s true. Marvel could’ve gone big and loud—and sure, there’s plenty of that—but at its core, this story is intimate. It’s about connection. About being flawed. And that really works here because, at the end of the day, The Fantastic Four are family, of course.

I grew up loving these kinds of stories, never really imagining I’d be inside one. It’s humbling. And terrifying. And, honestly, so much fun.

You’ve also got the spin-off from The Mandalorian TV series, The Mandalorian & Grogu. That’s an exciting development.

Yes. I think whenever you transfer something from TV to film you know you are taking something of a risk, but the concept is so concreted now and it’s a challenge all of us have taken on with real excitement.

What I will say is that while the show involves a lot of action and adventure within a fantastical universe, the film will present a more grounded and nuanced character. It’s planned to close out the stories of other shows like Ahsoka and Boba Fett, as well.

How did transitioning from smaller roles to major parts in Narcos and Game of Thrones impact your career?

Those projects were pivotal, offering not just visibility but also a deeper exploration of my craft. Playing characters like Javier Peña and Oberyn Martell allowed me to showcase my range and connect with a global audience.

It was a huge boost, opening doors to more diverse and challenging roles. The experience taught me a lot about the industry and solidified my passion for storytelling, setting the stage for future opportunities and I’m so thankful for that.

How do you manage the balance between being one of the most sought-after actors and maintaining your personal life?

Balancing a hectic career with personal time is definitely challenging. My schedule is often packed, so finding time for myself becomes a priority. I focus on staying present and making the most of the moments I have for relaxation and self-care.

It’s about managing my commitments carefully and ensuring I maintain a healthy work-life balance.