Tag: pedro pascal

  • Pedro Pascal Explains ‘C*nty’ to Vanessa Kirby in the Most Fabulous Way

    Pedro Pascal Explains ‘C*nty’ to Vanessa Kirby in the Most Fabulous Way

    Pedro Pascal is many things, acclaimed actor, Internet’s favorite zaddy, and now, queer slang interpreter. While promoting Marvel’s upcoming Fantastic Four: The First Steps, Pascal gave co-star Vanessa Kirby a heartfelt (and hysterical) lesson in one of the queer community’s most powerful adjectives: cunty.

    Pedro Pascal, Queer Lexicon Professor

    The moment happened during an interview with Australian outlet Pedestrian TV, where journalist Bek Manibog complimented Kirby’s intense performance look as Invisible Woman.

    “You’re giving forcefield snatched cunty fierceness face,” Manibog said, referring to Kirby’s superhero power pose.

    Kirby, understandably caught off guard, looked puzzled. “I don’t know if that’s a good thing,” she said.

    Cue Pedro Pascal with the rescue, and the receipts.

    “Cunty face is good, babe,” he assured her, without missing a beat. “Cunty face just means fierce, fabulous, beautiful, strong. It’s good, it’s good.”

    And just like that, Vanessa Kirby received her honorary queer linguistics degree, courtesy of Professor Pascal.

    A Message for Trans Fans Down Under

    As the conversation wrapped, Manibog thanked Pascal for his well-known support of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly the trans community, and asked if he had a message for his trans fans in Australia.

    “You are a symbol of courage and you inspire fear in those that are afraid of being their true selves,” Pascal said earnestly. “And I think that that’s the threat. Your joy and your radical bravery in living your life in joy.”

    It’s a reminder that his allyship isn’t performative, it’s personal. In June, Pascal drew headlines after publicly denouncing transphobia online, prompting backlash from the usual suspects including J.K. Rowling and Martina Navratilova.

    But Pascal remains unbothered, and unwavering.

    Whether he’s teaching Marvel co-stars the art of the “cunty face” or showing up for queer fans around the globe, Pedro Pascal continues to prove that he’s not just the Internet’s daddy, he’s also one of its most devoted allies.

  • Marvel’s ‘Fantastic Four’ Cast Stuns at Retro-Futuristic Paris Launch

    Marvel’s ‘Fantastic Four’ Cast Stuns at Retro-Futuristic Paris Launch

    Marvel’s First Family begins their global promo tour in style.

    Marvel’s First Family just made their first stop — and they did it with serious style. Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach kicked off the global promotional tour for The Fantastic Four: First Steps with a glamorous photo call in Paris, posing for cameras at the futuristic Espace Niemeyer building.

    The Paris location, designed by famed Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, felt like a fitting backdrop for the film’s retro-futuristic 1960s vibe. With sleek lines, bold curves, and architectural flair, the setting teased the energy of Marvel’s newest cinematic universe.

    Pascal leads the cast as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, with Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing. Together, they bring fresh energy and major star power to Marvel’s First Family — and from these first images alone, fans are ready to follow them anywhere.

    PARIS, FRANCE – JULY 07: Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby attend “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” Paris Special Event at Espace Niemeyer on July 07, 2025 in Paris, France. (Photo by Marc Piasecki/Getty Images for Disney)

    What is Fantastic Four: First Steps About?

    Set in a stylized version of the 1960s, First Steps introduces the team as they face off against their most terrifying foe yet: the planet-consuming Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson. Julia Garner joins the action as his mysterious Herald, the Silver Surfer.

    Balancing their new roles as heroes and the challenges of chosen family, the Fantastic Four must save Earth — and each other — in what promises to be one of Marvel Studios’ boldest, most visually striking films to date. Directed by Matt Shakman (WandaVision), the film also stars Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles.

    The Fantastic Four: First Steps hits theaters July 25, 2025.

    Check out the official photos from the Paris launch below.

    PARIS, FRANCE – JULY 07: Joseph Quinn attends “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” Paris Special Event at Espace Niemeyer on July 07, 2025 in Paris, France. (Photo by Marc Piasecki/Getty Images for Disney)
    PARIS, FRANCE – JULY 07: Ebon Moss-Bachrach attends “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” Paris Special Event at Espace Niemeyer on July 07, 2025 in Paris, France. (Photo by Marc Piasecki/Getty Images for Disney)
  • Pedro Pascal Shuts Down Rowling, Defends Trans Rights, and Reflects on Fame at 50

    Pedro Pascal Shuts Down Rowling, Defends Trans Rights, and Reflects on Fame at 50

    Pedro Pascal has long held the internet’s gaze with smoldering charm, scene-stealing performances, and that irresistible “daddy” aura fans can’t get enough of. But in a new cover story for Vanity Fair, the 50-year-old star makes one thing clear: he’s not here to be your meme, he’s here to take a stand, particularly when it comes to protecting his loved ones.

    Standing Up to Rowling, Standing With His Sister

    Pascal didn’t hold back when responding to J.K. Rowling’s recent post celebrating a U.K. Supreme Court ruling that limited the legal definition of “woman” to biological sex. The Harry Potter author marked the decision with a smug post of herself sipping from a drink, captioned “I love it when a plan comes together.” For Pascal, the gesture struck a nerve.

    “That’s heinous loser behavior,” he commented on an Instagram post, plainly stating how harmful such rhetoric is to the trans community. Pascal’s advocacy isn’t performative, it comes from a deeply personal place. His younger sister Lux came out as transgender in 2021, and Pascal’s protectiveness over her has only sharpened in the face of rising anti-trans sentiment.

    “Bullies make me fucking sick,” he said. “It’s a situation that deserves the utmost elegance so that something can actually happen.”

    His sister Javiera echoed the sentiment: “He said that as the older brother to someone saying that our little sister doesn’t exist.” The internet’s daddy, it turns out, is also a fiercely loyal big brother.

    Rumors, Romance, and Red Carpets

    As with most public figures, Pascal hasn’t been immune to online drama. When a Comic-Con clip circulated showing him holding co-star Vanessa Kirby’s hand, critics tried spinning it as inappropriate. Kirby shut it down immediately, saying they were just nervous before walking out on stage and that the gesture was comforting, not creepy.

    Pascal brushed off the kerfuffle with the same quiet confidence that’s helped him navigate Hollywood’s chaos for over two decades. That self-assurance is also evident when it comes to questions about his love life—or lack thereof.

    Despite public curiosity, Pascal has never officially confirmed a relationship. “I always feel perplexed when I’m identified in the media as a ‘highly private person,’ because that’s the opposite of me,” he said. He’s open with loved ones and close friends but prefers to keep the internet out of his business. As for kids? He’s not actively planning for them but admits, “I’ve had dreams of taking my kids to the movies like my parents took me.”

     

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    From Action Star to Romantic Lead (Even With a Sling)

    Pascal has played everything from a gun-slinging protector in The Mandalorian to a gritty survivor in The Last of Us. But his latest turn in the upcoming romantic comedy Materialists pushed him out of his comfort zone in more ways than one.

    When filming began, Pascal was still recovering from a dislocated shoulder after a fall down the stairs. “It was the weakest I’d ever felt,” he said. “It was such a scary, fraudulent thing to feel like I could play somebody who was the catch of Manhattan.”

    Despite his self-doubt, he pulled it off with aplomb. When the interviewer told him he looked good on screen, Pascal sighed in relief: “You think I’m hot in it? Thank God!”

    Aging, Acting, and Acceptance

    Approaching 50 brought a wave of introspection for Pascal, who confessed to struggling with feelings of irrelevance and physical decline. An injury on the Gladiator II set and years of avoiding birthday celebrations since his mother’s passing added to the emotional weight.

    So this year, he reclaimed it. Pascal threw a multiday birthday bash in London, where family and friends toasted him with martinis and a slideshow tribute from Lux brought him to tears. “When you feel seen like I did that night, you feel touched by magic,” he said.

    Pascal may joke about being too old to headline a movie, but fans, and fellow stars like Robert Downey Jr., disagree. Downey called Pascal’s rise a reminder that the industry still rewards authenticity and talent: “His slow trajectory to becoming a household name who is on a wildly hot streak kind of reaffirms my faith in our industry.”

     

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    More Than a Meme

    Pedro Pascal might play reluctant heroes on screen, but in real life, he’s leading with his heart. Whether defending his sister, stepping into new film roles, or simply making space for vulnerability, Pascal is proving that depth, kindness, and conviction are far sexier than any internet nickname.

    Yes, he’s still your daddy. But more importantly, he’s someone worth listening to.

  • Pedro Pascal Shares He’s a ‘Big Spoon’ and Now We’re All Little Spoons

    Pedro Pascal Shares He’s a ‘Big Spoon’ and Now We’re All Little Spoons

    It was supposed to be a standard Vogue promo interview, a lighthearted “Off The Cuff” chat between Materialists co-stars Dakota Johnson and Pedro Pascal. Instead, it turned into a viral queer fever dream, thanks to a single, sultry word whispered by Pascal: “Big.”

    Yes, we’re talking about that moment. Johnson turned to Pascal and casually asked, “Big spoon or little spoon?” Without missing a beat, and with all the velvety confidence of someone who’s broken the internet before, Pascal leaned in, locked eyes with the camera, and whispered, “Big.”

    Cue: a collective gay gasp heard across the globe.

    @ppascalcomfort

    Pedro is the BIG SPOON… ok, I’m fine… #pedropascal #pedropascaledit #ppascalcomfort #dakotajohnson #thematerialists #bigspoon

    ♬ som original – pascal comfort

    @editsby_kh

    Pasta😂 #dakotajohnson #pedropascal #materialistsmovie #vogue #dakotajohnsonedit #fyp #fypシ #foryou #fypage #dakotajohnsonfan

    ♬ original sound – editsby_kh

    The Art of Flirt and Feral Energy

    From the jump, the interview is dripping with chaotic chemistry. There’s playful name-calling (“Bitch.” “Bitch.”), confessions of green hummus lies, and an entire tangent where Johnson shares her childhood nickname was cock. (Spelled “Coqui,” but phonetically? You heard it right.) The two zigzag through questions ranging from reality show dreams to “What’s your ideal night out?” spoiler: Pedro’s is a night in.

    But it’s the “big spoon” bombshell that launched a thousand tweets.

    Big Spoon Pedro: The Fan Reaction

    Online, queer fans are losing it, and rightfully so. One viral post on X read, “big spoon or little spoon?” “…big.” WHY’D HE HAVE TO SAY IT LIKE THAT?!” Another user declared, “PEDRO IS THE BIG SPOON !!! NOBODY TALK TO ME RIGHT NOW.

    TikTok is flooded with edits of the whisper heard ‘round the world, usually paired with dramatic slow-motion and orchestral swells. The vibe? Horny with a side of reverence.

    Pedro Pascal has long been hailed as the internet’s daddy, zaddy, and everything in between, but this moment? This was sacred. It was feral-core. And queer fans have claimed it like a rainbow at the end of a very sexy storm.

    ‘Materialists’ Hits Theaters June 13

    The press tour antics are all in support of Materialists, the upcoming film set to hit theaters June 13. If the onscreen chemistry is even half as unhinged and delightful as this interview, we’re in for a cinematic treat.

    Until then, we’ll be watching the “Big Spoon” clip on loop. For science. For culture. For the gays.

  • Pop Icon Madonna Newest Celebrity to Rally Behind Trans Rights With ‘Protect the Dolls’ Shirts

    Pop Icon Madonna Newest Celebrity to Rally Behind Trans Rights With ‘Protect the Dolls’ Shirts

    Madonna is once again making headlines—not just for her music or tours, but for her unwavering support of the trans community.

    On May 29, the pop icon took to X (formerly Twitter) to post a photo of herself wearing a black “Protect the Dolls” T-shirt, a bold fashion statement created by designer Conner Ives. Layered under a rosary chain and paired with a diamond necklace, the shirt was less of a wardrobe choice and more of a rallying cry.

    With over 1.2 million views, Madonna’s post is more than viral—it’s a powerful act of visibility for a community under fire. Fans have flooded her comments with admiration for her unwavering love and support of LGBTQ+ community. One saying, “Thank you, this means the world, and you are an absolute ray of light.” Another quoting, “THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT WITH OUR COMMUNITY!”

    What “Protect the Dolls” Really Means

    The phrase “Protect the Dolls” is more than just a slogan. It’s a nod to the vibrant slang of 1980s Ballroom culture, originally popularized by Black and Latina trans women. In that scene, “the dolls” was an empowering term used to celebrate femininity, strength, and presence. Today, it’s embraced by many trans women and transfeminine nonbinary individuals as an affirming label.

    1980's Ballroom Scene in New York City
    Photo: Akib Irfan

    By reviving the term in this new design, Conner Ives isn’t just selling T-shirts—he’s raising awareness and funds for trans-focused initiatives. The shirt made its debut at the close of his London Fashion Week runway show, and it’s since taken on a life of its own.

    Celebrities Join the Movement

    Madonna isn’t the only A-lister showing up for the dolls.

    Actor Pedro Pascal, who has long been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, recently wore the same shirt during his 50th birthday celebration. Among those in attendance were his sister, trans actress Lux Pascal, and trailblazing trans DJ Honey Dijon. The gathering wasn’t just festive—it was quietly political.

    Australian pop star Troye Sivan, actress Tilda Swinton, and internet sensation Addison Rae have also been spotted donning the now-iconic design.

    A Timely Message

    As anti-trans legislation continues to rise globally, these moments of visible solidarity are more than symbolic. They serve as reminders that fashion, when paired with intention, can be a powerful tool of resistance.

    And when Madonna, Pascal, and a parade of other stars wear a message loud and proud, the world takes notice.

  • Pedro Pascal’s Viral Premiere Moment Proves He’s Still the Internet’s Favorite Daddy

    Pedro Pascal’s Viral Premiere Moment Proves He’s Still the Internet’s Favorite Daddy

    Pedro Pascal continues to reign as Hollywood’s favorite effortlessly cool zaddy—and he just gave fans another reason to adore him. The beloved actor made headlines again after his delightfully relatable quip at the premiere of From the World of John Wick: Ballerina quickly went viral.

    A Red Carpet, A Viral Moment

    At the buzzy Los Angeles premiere of Ballerina, the newest spin-off in the John Wick universe, Pascal stole the show without even trying. Influencer Sam Cornforth captured the viral clip as Pascal walked through the theater. When asked something off-camera, he responded—without missing a beat—“Hell no! I’m a lazy 50-year-old bougie b*tch…”

    @samcornforth

    Replying to @PixieDustedPossum this has BLOWN up the internet & being stolen left right & centre with no credit so here is the ORIGINAL uncut video for your enjoyment! 🤘 #pedropascal #pedro #hellno #lazy50yearoldbougie #comedy #viral #trending #audio

    ♬ original sound – Sam Cornforth

    And just like that, the Internet had its next catchphrase.

    It’s unclear exactly what sparked the comment, but one thing’s for sure: the delivery, the timing, the vibe? 10/10. The moment served as yet another reminder that Pedro Pascal is not only supremely talented but also hilariously self-aware—and deeply relatable.

    An Unexpected Reunion on the Carpet

    Pascal didn’t stop at the viral one-liner. Inside the premiere, he shared warm moments with Ballerina lead Ana de Armas and longtime franchise favorite Keanu Reeves. Cameras caught Pascal surprising de Armas and enthusiastically greeting Reeves, who seemed equally delighted by the encounter.

    The actor’s laid-back look—a khaki jacket paired with his signature easy confidence—stood out among the sea of black ties, adding to his ever-growing list of “cool uncle” fashion moments.

    What to Expect From Ballerina

    Slated for release on June 6, 2025, From the World of John Wick: Ballerina follows the story of Eve Macarro (played by de Armas), a ballerina-turned-assassin on a mission of vengeance. The film marks the first female-led entry in the action-packed John Wick universe, and yes—Keanu Reeves is back as the iconic Mr. Wick.

    While Pascal’s involvement with Ballerina remains unconfirmed, his premiere appearance certainly stirred excitement among fans of both him and the franchise. Could he be making a cameo? Only time will tell.

    Pedro Pascal: Internet’s Forever Favorite

    From Narcos to The Last of Us, Pedro Pascal’s rise has been meteoric, and his off-screen personality continues to capture hearts. Whether he’s making audiences cry on screen or cracking up red carpets, one thing remains clear: the world is still deeply obsessed with Pedro Pascal.

    And if being a “lazy 50-year-old bougie b*tch” is the vibe of 2025, we’re absolutely here for it.

  • Alexander Skarsgård Kisses Pedro Pascal as Queer Biker Romance ‘Pillion’ Earns Rave Reviews at Cannes

    Alexander Skarsgård Kisses Pedro Pascal as Queer Biker Romance ‘Pillion’ Earns Rave Reviews at Cannes

    What do you get when you mix leather, lust, and a seven-minute standing ovation? The answer: Pillion, the new queer Sub/Dom biker romance that roared into the Cannes Film Festival this weekend — and brought a little cheeky affection with it.

    During the thunderous applause following the film’s premiere, Alexander Skarsgård leaned over and planted a sweet (and now instantly iconic) kiss on Pedro Pascal’s cheek. Call it bromance, call it promotion — either way, it sent the audience and internet into a frenzy.

    We’re definitely not jealous. Not at all.

    Leather, Lust, and Literary Roots

    Directed by Harry Lighton and based on Adam Mars-Jones’ 2019 novel Box Hill, Pillion premiered on May 18 in Cannes’ prestigious Un Certain Regard section. The film stars Harry Potter alum Harry Melling as Colin, a timid loner whose world is flipped upside down by Ray — an enigmatic, dominant biker portrayed by Skarsgård.

    The official synopsis describes Colin as “a weedy wallflower” until Ray, the “impossibly handsome leader of a motorbike club,” claims him as his submissive. Ray whisks Colin away from his dull suburban life into a raw, sexually charged world of queer biker brotherhood — and things get kinky fast.

    “But as Colin steps deeper into Ray’s world of rules and mysteries,” the synopsis teases, “he begins to question whether the life of a 24/7 submissive is for him. Has he found his calling, or simply swapped one form of suffocation for another?”

    Standing Ovation and Critical Acclaim

    The Cannes crowd certainly approved. Following the film’s climactic ending, the theater erupted into a standing ovation that reportedly lasted a full seven minutes. That’s when Skarsgård, dressed in black leather trousers and biker boots, gave Pascal a playful smooch in front of the crowd.

    A power move? Absolutely. A meme in the making? Without a doubt.

    Critics are already showering the film with praise:

    • Deadline lauded Skarsgård for fully committing to the role, calling his performance “fearless” and “emotionally elusive.”

    • The Hollywood Reporter highlighted the duo’s dynamic chemistry, writing that “what gives Pillion its kick is the friction sparked when Colin starts wanting more.”

    Queer Cinema Shines Bright at Cannes

    Pillion is part of a dazzling lineup of LGBTQ+ films showcased at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, which runs through May 24. Other queer highlights include:

    With this much queer storytelling on the big screen, it’s clear that Cannes is embracing bold, boundary-pushing cinema with open arms — and open hearts.

    Final Verdict?

    Pillion is more than just leather, sex, and domination — though it delivers plenty of that. It’s a deeply felt story about identity, power, and desire, with performances that leave a lasting impression.

    And, let’s be honest, any film that gives us Alexander Skarsgård in biker boots and a Pedro Pascal kiss? That’s cinema, baby.

  • Lux Pascal Leads in Bold New Biopic ‘Miss Carbón’ as First Trans Female Miner in Argentina

    Lux Pascal Leads in Bold New Biopic ‘Miss Carbón’ as First Trans Female Miner in Argentina

    Introduction: A Story Worth Its Weight in Coal

    The first trailer for Miss Carbón, the highly anticipated feature starring Lux Pascal, has officially dropped—and it’s already striking a chord with audiences. The film, directed by Agustina Macri, dramatizes the remarkable true story of Carla Antonella Rodríguez, a trailblazing trans woman who became the first female coal miner in her conservative Argentine town.

    Set to debut in Spanish cinemas on June 13, the movie promises to be a deeply human tale of courage, defiance, and identity set against the dusty backdrop of a male-dominated mine.

     

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    A post shared by Caramel Films (@caramelfilms)

    A Role to Remember for Lux Pascal

    Lux Pascal, known for roles in Narcos and La Jauría, takes on the lead role of Carlita, a woman pushing boundaries in every sense of the word. It’s a career-defining role that blends raw emotionality with social commentary—and one that continues her trajectory as both a rising star and a powerful voice in trans visibility.

    Pascal, who came out publicly as a trans woman in 2021, brings personal authenticity to Carlita’s experience of gender transition. In the film’s trailer, Carlita is seen suiting up for work underground, contending with mistrust and open hostility from male coworkers, all while grappling with her own evolving identity.

    Director’s Vision: Dreaming Beyond Limits

    Director Agustina Macri has described Miss Carbón as “a prime example of what dreaming can achieve,” sharing that Carlita’s story resonated with her from the very first read of the script.

    “The courage shown by Carlita to fulfill her dream of being a miner—and also a woman—is something that pierced my soul,” Macri said in a statement. “She brings hope, and reminds us there’s still so much ground to cover for women and trans women alike.”

    That spirit of hope is also reflected in the film’s tone: gritty but uplifting, dramatic but compassionate. It aims to portray Carlita’s struggle without reducing her to just that—a struggle. She’s a pioneer, yes, but also a full human being navigating love, work, identity, and belonging.

    From Patagonia to the World Stage

    Produced by Merry Colomer of Morena Films, Miss Carbón also stars Paco León, Simone Mercado, Lautaro Zera, Laura Grandinetti, and Romanina Escobar. It was filmed on location in the Patagonian region, adding regional authenticity to a story that, while grounded in a specific culture, speaks to universal themes of resilience and dignity.

    “From a small corner of Patagonia, Miss Carbón challenges the world to reckon with the present—and prepare for the future,” Colomer said.

    While the Spanish release is set for mid-June, there’s no confirmed date yet for an international premiere, though anticipation is already high across LGBTQ+ and independent film communities.

    Sibling Support and Stardom

    This film marks another milestone for Pascal, whose relationship with her brother, The Last of Us and The Mandalorian star Pedro Pascal, has captured hearts around the world. Lux has credited Pedro as one of her earliest supporters, helping her find the language and courage to embrace her identity.

     

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    A post shared by Lux Pascal (@luxpascal_)

    “He was one of the first people to gift me the tools that started shaping my identity,” Lux shared in a past interview. “He asked me how I felt, and once I told him I was happy, he congratulated me.”

    More recently, she beamed with pride about her brother’s growing fame: “He wears all his humanity on his sleeve. That’s the main lesson I’ve gotten from him: There’s no reason for me to hide who I am.”

    A Film That Dares to Dream

    Miss Carbón is more than just a story of one woman’s fight to work in a mine. It’s about challenging social norms, celebrating trans identity, and creating space for stories that have too long gone untold.

    For audiences ready to be moved, inspired, and maybe even a little bit changed, Miss Carbón is poised to deliver.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Rr2ePUBXwM

  • Queer Love and Emotional Stakes Rise as Ellie and Dina Connect in ‘The Last of Us’

    Queer Love and Emotional Stakes Rise as Ellie and Dina Connect in ‘The Last of Us’

    Season 2 of The Last of Us has already delivered emotional punches, none more resonant than those in Episode 4. Directed by Loki alum Kate Herron, the episode marks a significant turning point for the HBO series, not only in narrative but in the emotional and relational stakes for its central characters.

    Fans are still processing the early loss of Joel (Pedro Pascal), but the story has quickly pivoted to focus on Ellie (Bella Ramsey), Dina (Isabela Merced), and newcomer Isaac Dixon (Jeffrey Wright). This episode forces each character to confront choices that could alter the course of their lives—and in the case of Dina, a surprise pregnancy reveals new emotional territory.

    Herron spoke with Out about crafting this deeply personal chapter, which explores queer love, identity, and found family in the midst of a violent and uncertain world. Her direction brings a sense of intimacy and emotional nuance rarely seen in apocalyptic storytelling.

    A Story of Survival and Identity

    Episode 4 opens with a young soldier forced by Isaac to choose a side. Herron says that moment establishes the tone for the entire episode.

    “For me, it was all about grounding the story emotionally,” Herron said. “Whether it’s the military pressure, Ellie and Dina’s romance, or the trauma these characters carry, it was crucial to track the emotional arcs and make the audience feel like they’re right there with them.”

    The character of Isaac, introduced for the first time this season, adds thematic weight to the episode. While Herron deferred to series co-creator Craig Mazin on Isaac’s broader role, she emphasized that showing human threats—beyond the infected—was essential.

    “In Seattle, people are as dangerous, if not more so, than the infected,” she said. “That sets the stage for what’s coming.”

    Queer Love in a Genre Landscape

    Known for bringing queer representation into mainstream genre television, Herron believes that science fiction and horror offer unique avenues to explore universal themes.

    “The best genre stories make us feel something real,” she said. “Ellie and Dina’s love story is so relatable, even in this fantastical setting.”

    One of the most poignant scenes occurs when Ellie plays “Take On Me” on guitar—an act of emotional vulnerability that deepens her connection with Dina. Herron worked closely with Ramsey to explore different shades of shyness and confidence.

    Ellie playing 'Take on Me' in an emotional scene during Season 2, Episode 4. Photo: HBO
    Ellie playing ‘Take on Me’ in an emotional scene during Season 2, Episode 4. Photo: HBO

    “It’s such a human moment—Ellie playing for someone she cares about,” she said. “And of course, there’s a shadow of Joel in that, too, since he taught her guitar.”

    Trust, Secrets, and Intimacy

    Later in the episode, tension builds as Dina learns of Ellie’s bite. At the same time, Dina is grappling with her own secret—her pregnancy with ex-boyfriend Jesse’s child. Herron used pacing and setting to emphasize emotional stakes.

    “It was important that the kiss felt earned,” she said. “We don’t give viewers a moment to catch their breath, which mirrors how the characters feel.”

    The morning-after conversation between Ellie and Dina stands as one of the episode’s most intimate moments. When Ellie offers to raise the child as a parent figure, Herron said it was vital to present that moment with authenticity.

    Photo: HBO
    Photo: HBO

    “It’s a quiet act of radical love,” she explained. “Ellie’s willingness to step into that role shows how deep their bond is. I just wanted the audience to feel like they were witnessing something private and deeply human.”

    Reimagining Family in a Harsh World

    As queer family structures face increased scrutiny in today’s political climate, Herron believes portraying chosen family onscreen is a powerful form of resistance.

    “It’s a grounded conversation that could happen between any two people,” she said. “But because it’s between two queer characters, it challenges what some people think family has to look like.”

    Herron credits Mazin and co-creator Neil Druckmann for allowing space to tell that story authentically.

    A Future for Ellie and Dina?

    Though Herron declined to speculate on where the story is headed, she shared her hope that Ellie and Dina find lasting happiness.

    “For one brief moment, they realize the person they love feels the same way,” she said. “That kind of joy is rare in their world—and it’s what makes it so powerful.”

    As Herron transitions from Doctor Who and The Last of Us to her next project set in The Sims universe, one theme remains constant in her work: empathy.

    “I’m drawn to imperfect characters,” she said. “Storytelling helps us understand people we don’t always agree with—and maybe, along the way, we find a bit more connection.”

    The Last of Us airs Sundays on Max.

  • Pedro Pascal Is Suiting Up and Serving Looks in Marvel’s ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’

    Pedro Pascal Is Suiting Up and Serving Looks in Marvel’s ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’

    Pedro Pascal is back, hotter than ever—and this time, he’s saving the world and starting a family in Marvel’s Fantastic Four: First Steps, hitting theaters July 25.

    The beloved Internet Daddy officially joins the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Reed Richards, aka Mr. Fantastic, in a film that promises sci-fi spectacle, retro-futuristic flair, and, of course, plenty of thirst-worthy moments from one of Hollywood’s most adored leading men.

    Double Daddy Duty in the MCU

    Pascal stars alongside Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm), Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ben Grimm/The Thing) as the latest iteration of Marvel’s “First Family.” But don’t expect your standard superhero origin tale.

    Set on a “1960s-inspired retro-futuristic parallel Earth,” the trailer skips the backstory and jumps straight into action—with a twist. Reed and Sue are expecting a baby, setting Pascal up for a double dose of daddy duty: one on-screen, and the other as the Internet’s favorite zaddy.

    Between the heartfelt family dynamics and universe-threatening stakes, fans are already swooning over Pascal’s mix of intellect, scruff, and superpowers.

    A Stellar Cast—and a New Silver Surfer?

    The MCU isn’t pulling punches with this star-packed reboot. Julia Garner plays the Silver Surfer, delivering a chilling warning: their planet is marked for destruction by none other than Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson.

    Additional cast members include Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles. And in what might be the buzziest post-credits twist yet, Robert Downey Jr. is rumored to return not as Iron Man—but as Doctor Doom.

    A Fantastic Year for Our Favorite Daddy

    Fantastic Four: First Steps caps off a run of high-profile projects for Pascal, including The Mandalorian, The Last of Us, Gladiator II, and the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday. His mix of rugged charm, emotional depth, and social consciousness makes him one of Hollywood’s most irresistible leading men.

    Whether he’s battling Galactus or melting the internet with a smoldering glance, Pedro Pascal is, without a doubt, the hottest superhero dad the MCU has ever seen.