Key Takeaways:
– Pedro Pascal, now an A-lister, once faced financial challenges with less than $7 in his bank.
– His minor role in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ proved to be a financial lifeline.
– Now, Pascal is a sought-after lead in Hollywood, with roles in Game of Thrones, The Last of Us, and The Mandalorian.
– Despite their characters’ tragic storyline, Pascal developed a strong friendship with co-star Sarah Michelle Gellar off-screen.
From Financial Struggles to Hollywood Star
Chilean actor Pedro Pascal, celebrated for his roles in Game of Thrones, The Last of Us, and The Mandalorian, faced significant financial struggles early in his career. The actor, now a Hollywood name, almost found himself homeless with less than $7 in his bank account. However, a lifeline came in the form of a role in the Sarah Michelle Gellar-led show, ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’.
A Savior Role in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’
Pascal broke into the U.S. entertainment industry with a small role in this popular 1997 show. His portrayal of ‘Eddie,’ a freshman at UC Sunnydale, formed a crucial stepping stone in his acting journey. Recounting the financial distress he faced, Pascal acknowledged how this role essentially saved him from homelessness and allowed him to remain in Hollywood.
“My entry-level lasted about 15 years… We’re talking about bouncing back from health issues, settling my rent,” Pascal shared, highlighting the impact of this opportunity. “A residual payment from ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ showed up, saving the day, and literally is the reason I was able to stay in Hollywood and not give up.”
On-Set Memories and Real-life Friendships
Despite his character facing a short lifespan on the show, being converted into a vampire and eventually killed by Buffy herself, Pascal built a strong friendship with the show’s lead, Gellar. The duo continued their friendship beyond the set, with Gellar recently sharing a throwback picture of the two via her Instagram. During an interview with ET, Pascal joyously reflected upon his time on the Buffy set, mentioning lunchtime spent in his vamp mask and the ice cream he received from Gellar’s trailer.
Pedro Pascal’s Rise to Stardom
Following his lifeline role in Buffy, Pascal carved his way into Hollywood stardom. He gained global recognition through his portrayal in Game of Thrones. Subsequently, he starred in The Last of Us and The Mandalorian, cementing his status as a sought-after lead actor. Pascal is set to continue his upward trajectory with a role in the upcoming MCU’s Fantastic Four.
Given his history and rise, Pascal’s story offers a striking example of resilience and perseverance in the often-uncertain world of acting. It’s a stark reminder of the challenges behind the glamorous facade of Hollywood. But it also offers hope and serves as an inspiration for all aspiring actors struggling on their journey to stardom.
Fans can relive Pascal’s early career days by catching ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ on Disney+.
