Kieran Culkin

Biography

Kieran Kyle Culkin, born on September 30, 1982, is a prominent American actor celebrated for his ability to embody complex characters that are often both unlikable and relatable. Over the course of his career, he has garnered numerous prestigious awards, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and two Golden Globe Awards.

Culkin's journey began in the realm of off-Broadway theater as a child actor. He made his film debut alongside his brother, Macaulay Culkin, in the beloved holiday classic Home Alone (1990). His breakthrough performance came in the 2002 comedy-drama Igby Goes Down, earning him his first Golden Globe nomination. Following this success, Culkin stepped back from the spotlight for several years due to personal challenges. He made a notable return in 2010 with his role as Wallace Wells in the cult favorite Scott Pilgrim vs. the World. In 2024, he received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his moving portrayal in the buddy comedy A Real Pain.

On television, Culkin experienced a significant revival with his role as Roman Roy in HBO's acclaimed series Succession from 2018 to 2023, which earned him a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. His voice can also be heard in animated shows like Solar Opposites (2022–present) and Scott Pilgrim Takes Off (2023). In theater, he starred in both West End and Broadway productions of Kenneth Lonergan's This Is Our Youth and took on the role of Richard Roma in the 2025 Broadway revival of David Mamet's Glengarry Glen Ross.