The ‘The Last of Us’ star reflects on years of struggle, the importance of kindness and staying true to yourself while pursuing acting dreams.

Pedro Pascal may be one of Hollywood’s most recognisable stars today, but his rise to fame came after years of uncertainty, small acting jobs and financial challenges.

Speaking on Variety’s Awards Circuit Podcast, Pascal reflected on the difficult realities of building a career in the entertainment industry, explaining that facing setbacks is often part of the journey.

“You’ve got to eat shit, and you’ve got to take a lot of shit. That’s part of it,” the actor said.

However, Pascal also acknowledged the people who supported him and gave him opportunities when his career was still developing. Their encouragement helped him move forward and reinforced the importance of treating others well.

Pascal began attracting wider attention after appearing in Game of Thrones. He subsequently achieved international recognition through major roles in The Mandalorian and The Last of Us, establishing himself as a leading figure in television and film.

The actor also offered advice to aspiring performers and others pursuing their ambitions. He encouraged people to continue working towards what they love rather than changing their personalities or values to satisfy others.

His comments highlight the perseverance required to succeed in a competitive industry, while recognising the importance of support and remaining authentic.

Pascal is now preparing for Behemoth!, a film about a cello player who returns to Los Angeles after spending 20 years away.

The film is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on 4 December, adding another project to the actor’s expanding list of screen credits.