Kieran Culkin has officially become an Academy Award winner, and his unforgettable acceptance speech at the 97th Academy Awards was both touching and humorous. The acclaimed actor, known for his role in the hit series Succession, took home his first-ever Oscar on Sunday night for his performance as Benji Kaplan in the film A Real Pain. This film, which was written, directed by, and co-starring Jesse Eisenberg, tells the poignant story of two mismatched cousins who embark on a journey through Poland to honor their late grandmother.
This prestigious award marked Culkin's first nomination and victory at the Oscars, and he didn't hold back in his speech. True to his charming personality, he infused his acceptance speech with a blend of gratitude, humor, and heartfelt emotion. After stepping onto the stage, Culkin had a special message for his wife, Jazz Charton, addressing a long-standing promise they made regarding expanding their family.
"Please don't play the music, because I want to tell a really quick story about Jazz," Culkin began, setting the tone for a humorous yet sincere anecdote. He recounted a conversation from a year ago where he expressed his desire for a third child, referencing a deal he made with Jazz: if he won an Oscar, she would agree to have another baby. Culkin humorously noted that she had made this promise under the assumption that he wouldn’t actually win.
As the audience chuckled, he continued, "After the show, we were walking through a parking lot, and she said, 'Oh, god, I did say that. I guess I owe you a third kid.' I turned to her and said, 'Really, I want four.' To which she replied, 'I will give you four when you win an Oscar.' I held my hand out, she shook it, and I have not brought it up once until just now." The crowd erupted in laughter as Culkin turned to his wife in the audience, making the moment even more special.
In a lighthearted tone, Culkin addressed Jazz directly, saying, "Then I just have to say to you, Jazz, love of my life, ye of little faith -- no pressure. I love you. I'm really sorry I did this again. And let's get cracking on those kids. What do you say? I love you. I love. I love you." This candid moment showcased not just his excitement for the award but also a deep affection for his wife.
Since their marriage in 2013, Culkin and Charton have welcomed two children together. If his acceptance speech is any indication, it looks like a third (and possibly even a fourth) child may soon be on the horizon for the happy couple.
