The world today knows Pedro Pascal as the man who captured the world’s attention with his portrayal of Joel Miller in HBO’s The Last of Us. He has starred in other successful endeavors that have put him on the international map. From The Mandalorian to The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, Pascal remains a charmer.
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Before the glitz and glamor of the Hollywood world, the actor had to face his fair share of life-altering setbacks and challenges. The passing of his mother was especially troubling for Pascal, who has enunciated his love for her on numerous interviews and occasions. To honor his mother, the actor ultimately decided to take the step of changing his moniker. If not for this, he would be known throughout the globe as Pedro Balmaceda.
Pedro Pascal Changed His Name As A Tribute To His Late Mother
In an interview with Esquire, Pascal detailed the aftermath of his mother’s death. It happened when the actor was just 24. He recalled making a hasty return to Chile to be with his family, particularly his younger siblings. The Narcos alum’s parental instincts had kicked in. He wanted to affirm his presence and ensure they didn’t have to feel alone at such a crucial, devastating moment. He had the following to state:
“They were very young kids, so much younger than me and my older sister, so even if they hadn’t lost a parent, we would still feel parental toward them. And I didn’t naively think I could fill a space like that, but I just always wanted to be like, I’m here.”
Pascal’s mother, Verónica Pascal, died in 2000 by suicide. In her honor, the actor would change his stage name to include his mother’s maiden name, Pascal. Therefore, the actor who was previously getting booked for projects under the Pedro Balmaceda moniker became the Pedro Pascal we have all come to know and appreciate today.
Pascal’s love and appreciation for his mother goes beyond the sweet gesture of changing his stage name. He has iterated his admiration and affection in multiple interviews. Have a look.
Pedro Pascal Credited His Success To His Mother
In a conversation with PEOPLE in 2020, the actor described how encouraging and sympathetic his mother was. He further expressed that he owes his success and achievements to her:
“She was always incredibly supportive, never a stage mom. I always felt like she knew something that I didn’t. None of [my success] would be real if it weren’t for her,”
“The circumstances of my mother’s death made it very difficult for us to maintain the memory of her as the person she was. It just hurts so much… Sometimes I feel distressed and I try to deal with it in the best way possible because I know that my mother wouldn’t like me to do it any other way.”
In the same interview, he declared that his mother was the love of his life and that he misses her constantly.
Pedro Pascal is now an internationally renowned personality. The world today gawks in utter wonder at the Chilean-American actor after The Last of Us‘ phenomenal success. What the superstar does next in his flourishing career will be intriguing to witness. But the best thing about his ardent tribute is that his mother’s legacy will continue to live through him for years to come. We wish him the very best.
Source: People, Paula, and Esquire