Dynasty Dressing: Kieran Culkin Trades ‘Succession’ Power Suits for Oscar Glory
In the glittering constellation of Hollywood’s award season, a new star has firmly cemented his place in the firmament. Kieran Culkin, the deliciously sardonic performer who captivated audiences as Roman Roy in HBO’s “Succession,” has completed his triumphant awards sweep by claiming the coveted Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at Sunday’s 97th Academy Awards ceremony.
The fashion-forward Culkin, resplendent in a perfectly tailored tuxedo that spoke volumes of quiet luxury, accepted the golden statuette for his nuanced portrayal of Benji Kaplan in Jesse Eisenberg’s “A Real Pain.” This character—a disinhibited, emotionally volatile charmer embarking on a revelatory journey with his anxious cousin—showcased Culkin’s extraordinary ability to balance vulnerability and chaotic energy with effortless style.
“Jesse Eisenberg, thank you for this movie. You’re a genius,” Culkin declared from the stage with his characteristic blend of sincerity and subtle irreverence. “I would never say that to your face. I’m never saying it again. So soak it up.” The audience response was as warm as cashmere and just as enveloping.
At 42, this marks Culkin’s first Academy Award nomination and win, though his sartorial presence has long been noted for its understated elegance and contemporary edge. His journey to this pinnacle of industry recognition wasn’t without its dramatic narrative turns. When production on “Succession” extended beyond schedule, Culkin contemplated withdrawing from Eisenberg’s film to prioritize family time—a decision that would have dramatically altered this season’s fashion landscape.
Enter Emma Stone, last year’s Best Actress laureate and Culkin’s former paramour, whose production company Fruit Tree backed the project. With the deft touch of a master couturier, Stone convinced Culkin to remain attached by paradoxically releasing him from obligation—a psychological masterpiece of persuasion that recalls the intricate construction of a Dior gown.
“She let me off the hook completely,” Culkin revealed in an interview with The Associated Press. “And I think it was the moment I got off the phone that I was like ‘Oh, I’m doing this movie.'” A decision as impeccably timed as a well-placed accessory.
The narrative arc of Culkin’s career holds all the dramatic elements fashionistas adore: the child actor who debuted at age 7 in “Home Alone” alongside his brother Macaulay; the promising young talent nominated for a Golden Globe for 2002’s “Igby Goes Down”; followed by the exquisite reinvention nearly two decades later as the cutting, complex Roman Roy—a role that garnered him both Emmy and Golden Globe accolades.
His victory completes an impeccable awards season ensemble, having already secured trophies from the Golden Globes, Screen Actors Guild, and BAFTA—a collection as comprehensive as any well-curated wardrobe.
In his acceptance speech, Culkin took a moment to thank his wife, Jazz Charton, with an endearing personal flourish by reminding her of his desire for more children—a charming detail that humanized the high-fashion affair of the Oscars.
The Best Supporting Actor category featured an assembly of sartorial and performative excellence: Yura Borisov for “Anora,” Edward Norton for “A Complete Unknown,” Guy Pearce for “The Brutalist,” and Culkin’s “Succession” co-star Jeremy Strong for “The Apprentice.” Yet it was Culkin who ultimately wore the crown.
When reflecting on his character Benji, Culkin noted with self-awareness reminiscent of a skilled style maven assessing their own image: “Sometimes people will say like, oh, you’re a lot like that character. I wasn’t until I did it. But I’d like to think that I’m a little more together than that. I’d like to think that I’ve figured some stuff out.”
Indeed, Kieran Culkin has figured it out—in performance, in style, and now in the realm of Hollywood’s highest honors.
