In a recent interview, acclaimed actor Pedro Pascal reflected on the pivotal role that helped launch his career – the fan-favorite character of Oberyn Martell on HBO’s mega-hit fantasy series Game of Thrones. Pascal credits the show’s creators, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, for taking a chance on him when he was still a relative unknown. He believes that without that breakout opportunity, he may not have landed major follow-up roles in shows like Narcos, The Mandalorian, and his latest hit, The Last of Us.
Pedro Pascal Credits Game of Thrones Role For Marvel’s Fantastic Four Opportunity
Pedro Pascal is set to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in the upcoming Fantastic Four movie. When asked by Vanity Fair about how his journey to Marvel superstardom began, Pascal pointed to Game of Thrones as the catalyst.
“The role that changed my life was in Game of Thrones,” Pascal stated. “I will always credit its creators for taking a chance on someone who had nothing but unknown theater credits and episodic television on their résumé. I still awe at the opportunity that was handed to me by David Benioff, Dan Weiss, and Carolyn Strauss. Without Thrones, I would not have had Narcos, The Mandalorian, or The Last of Us.”
What was it about Pascal’s GoT audition that convinced the showrunners he was right for the cunning and charismatic Prince Oberyn Martell, known as the “Red Viper?”
How Did Pedro Pascal Win Over Game of Thrones Showrunners?
Pascal reportedly sent in his initial Thrones audition on an iPhone video, filmed vertically in less-than-ideal conditions. But despite the technical limitations, Benioff was struck by Pascal’s acting talent and screen presence.
“That was such a tricky role to cast… We were looking for an actor with charisma, sexual energy, physical menace, and depth,” Benioff told Variety. “He had to be seductive to both men and women; he had to be someone the audience could believe as a killer. Once we saw the entire season there was no doubt Pedro was going to be a star. I thought he deserved more recognition, frankly…”
“I was thrilled that we gave Pedro a job that helped his ascent because he’s an absolute gem of an actor and a man,” Benioff stated.
Pascal’s memorable death scene as Oberyn, gruesomely killed by The Mountain, became an iconic Thrones moment. And while Benioff would have loved to work with Pascal longer on the show, he believes the actor’s early exit enabled him to achieve even greater success.
What Lies Ahead for Pedro Pascal in Marvel’s Fantastic Four?
Now poised to enter the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Mister Fantastic, Pascal joins an elite group of actors who have brought comic book superheroes to life on the big screen. Details remain tightly under wraps about the new Fantastic Four movie, which likely won’t hit theaters until 2025.
But if Pascal’s continually rising stardom is any indication, his portrayal of Reed Richards promises to be a standout. And he’ll forever be grateful for the unlikely opportunity from a decade ago that first showcased his talents to the world.
