Pedro Pascal embarked on his acting career in the 1990s with various short films after completing his education at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. Although it took him nearly two decades to land a breakout role, his recent performances in films and television have showcased his considerable talents. Early in his career, Pascal took on numerous guest roles in television, including a memorable appearance on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but he has since transitioned into more prominent and substantive roles.
A turning point for Pascal came in 2014 when he gained recognition for his supporting role in Game of Thrones, propelling him into the spotlight. Since then, he has joined several major franchises, including an upcoming role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Fantastic Four. Anticipation surrounds 2025 as he prepares to release some of his most significant projects to date, yet the following highlights represent the pinnacle of Pedro Pascal’s career thus far.
15 The Equalizer 2 (2018)
As Dave York
The Equalizer 2, following the success of its predecessor in 2014, further expanded upon the action-driven narrative featuring Denzel Washington. This sequel introduces Pedro Pascal as Dave York, a former CIA operative turned assassin who finds himself at odds with Washington’s character. Pascal effectively rises to the challenge of acting alongside a legend like Washington, infusing his character with depth and establishing great on-screen chemistry. Despite the familiar framework of the sequel, Washington’s performance remains consistently impressive across all three films.
14 Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)
As Maxwell Lord
Though Wonder Woman 1984 received mixed reviews compared to its predecessor, Pedro Pascal’s portrayal of Maxwell Lord steals the show. He embodies Lord’s descent from a desperate businessman to a power-hungry antagonist with aplomb. The narrative explores Diana Prince’s life in the titular year, accentuating her struggles against Pascal’s engagingly ambitious character. Despite the film’s flaws, Pascal’s compelling performance showcases his versatility in the superhero genre.
13 Triple Frontier (2019)
As Francisco “Catfish”Morales
Directed by J.C. Chandor, Triple Frontier follows a group of former Delta Force soldiers who link up for a high-stakes heist against a South American drug lord. Though the film is rife with intense scenarios, it emphasizes character development rather than pure spectacle. Pedro Pascal portrays Francisco “Catfish”Morales, a character that, while perhaps not the primary focus, adds significant charm and depth to the ensemble, solidifying his role’s importance. The sequel to this film, Triple Frontier 2, is currently in development.
12 Freaky Tales (2024)
As Clint
Freaky Tales offers a humorous take through a diverse cast dynamic, where Pedro Pascal brings Clint to life—a debt collector grappling with impending fatherhood. As events spiral into chaos, Pascal’s innate ability to convey layered emotions creates a poignant and entertaining journey. His performance captures the nuances of a man driven to desperate measures for his family, showcasing his talent for playing multifaceted characters.
11 Prospect (2018)
As Ezra
Prospect is a thought-provoking sci-fi film that centers on a teenage girl named Cee, played opposite her father, in a harsh environment while searching for valuable gems. The character of Ezra, portrayed by Pascal, is a rival prospector whose interactions with Cee illuminate deeper character dynamics. Pascal’s performance facilitates an engaging narrative, allowing both characters to evolve significantly as they confront the challenges faced in this unforgiving world.
10 Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017)
As Whiskey
In this contentious sequel of the beloved franchise, Pedro Pascal shines as Whiskey, a member of the American Kingsman. While the film sparked mixed reviews from fans, Pascal’s energetic portrayal added a refreshing twist, showcasing his capacity to blend humor and intensity. The character evolves from a seemingly archetypal figure to one who reveals depth and complexity, making his eventual transformation memorable and engaging.
9 If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)
As Pietro Alvarez
If Beale Street Could Talk is a poignant drama that highlights systemic racism through a compelling narrative. Although Pedro Pascal’s role as Pietro Alvarez is brief, his contribution to this ensemble illustrates his capacity to complement larger narratives effectively. The film garnered critical acclaim, earning several nominations and awards, solidifying its place as a remarkable cinematic work.
8 The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent (2022)
As Javi Gutierrez
In The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, Pascal’s character, a superfan named Javi, has a memorable chemistry with Nicolas Cage, who plays a fictionalized version of himself. Pascal’s fresh take complements Cage’s eccentricity, creating a comedic and action-packed narrative. Their gripping dynamic elevates the film, earning it acclaim among audiences. This film showcases Pascal’s versatility, allowing him to excel alongside an iconic actor.
7 The Uninvited (2024)
As Lucian
The Uninvited is an engaging dramedy that highlights familial and professional tensions during a party thrown to impress a client. Pedro Pascal portrays Lucian, a character entwined in a complex relationship with the protagonist. His nuanced performance alongside Walton Goggins creates palpable tension, as Pascal masterfully delivers layers of emotion that enhance the film’s emotional depth.
6 The Wild Robot (2024)
As Fink
As one of the few animated films released in 2024, The Wild Robot showcases Pedro Pascal as Fink, a fox who befriends a stranded robot on a deserted island. This family-friendly narrative emphasizes themes of companionship and resilience. Pascal’s voice work shines, contributing to the film’s emotional resonance. The film received praise, including multiple award nominations, further cementing Pascal’s growing diverse portfolio.
5 Game Of Thrones (2014)
As Oberyn Martell
Oberyn Martell remains one of the most iconic roles of Pedro Pascal’s career, introducing him to a wide audience. His character, a vengeful prince entangled in the Lannister-Stark rivalry, resonated with viewers due to Pascal’s magnetic performance that blended charm with complexity. This role not only showcased his range but also paved the way for future opportunities in Hollywood.
4 Gladiator II (2024)
As General Acacius
With the long-awaited sequel to the original Gladiator finally in production, Pedro Pascal portrays General Acacius in a film directed by Ridley Scott. Set against the backdrop of Rome’s glory and treachery, Pascal’s character is layered and complex, showcasing his talent for portraying multifaceted figures. His performance is set to be a key component of this highly anticipated film, which promises to deliver intense drama and action.
3 The Mandalorian (2019-2023)
As The Mandalorian
As the flagship series for Disney+, The Mandalorian marked a significant milestone in the Star Wars franchise, featuring Pedro Pascal in the titular role. Taking place five years after Return of the Jedi, the series chronicles Din Djarin’s journey as he navigates a treacherous galaxy while protecting the enigmatic Grogu. Pascal’s ability to express deep emotion beneath a helmet exemplifies his range as an actor and highlights his role as a paternal figure, a motif prevalent in his recent works.
2 Narcos (2015-2017)
As Javier Peña
Narcos chronicles the rise and fall of the infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar, centering on the DEA’s efforts to bring him to justice. Pascal’s portrayal of Javier Peña quickly became a series highlight as he evolved from a supporting character to a lead in subsequent seasons. This role played a crucial part in solidifying Pascal’s presence in Hollywood and showcased his dynamic on-screen charisma during complex narratives. The show garnered critical acclaim, earning multiple award nominations, though the recognition often focused on its production rather than individual performances.
1 The Last Of Us (2023-)
As Joel
In what is arguably Pedro Pascal’s most significant role to date, The Last Of Us has redefined expectations for video game adaptations. Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a mysterious infection, the narrative follows Joel’s journey to protect a young girl who may hold the key to humanity’s survival. Pascal’s ability to portray deep emotional struggles resonates profoundly, allowing audiences to connect with his character’s evolution. This series further cements Pascal as a leading figure in contemporary television, blending his varied portrayals of father figures across different genres in a captivating narrative.
As Pedro Pascal’s career continues to flourish, his diverse range of roles—from villains to heroes—underscores his adaptability as an actor. With numerous projects on the horizon, fans can anticipate even more remarkable performances in the near future.