As of May 5, 2025, Pedro Pascal has solidified his status as Hollywood’s most versatile and in-demand actor, seamlessly traversing the vast landscapes of sci-fi and major franchises with the ease of a seasoned traveler in a multiverse of his own making. Dubbed the “internet’s daddy” following his breakout role as Joel Miller in The Last of Us, Pascal has become a ubiquitous presence across some of the biggest cinematic and television universes, including Game of Thrones, Star Wars, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), and the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). His ability to shift effortlessly between roles—whether as a stoic protector, a charismatic leader, or a conflicted antihero—has turned his career into a spectacle akin to a “multiverse of madness,” captivating audiences and critics alike. This article explores Pascal’s remarkable journey, the roles that define his franchise-hopping prowess, and the cultural impact of his omnipresence in modern entertainment.
A Career Built on Versatility
Pedro Pascal’s rise to fame is a testament to his adaptability and relentless work ethic. His career trajectory began to gain momentum with his seven-episode arc as Oberyn Martell in Game of Thrones Season 4, a role he credits as the turning point that opened doors to subsequent opportunities. In a widely echoed sentiment from interviews, Pascal has noted that without Thrones, he might not have landed Narcos, The Mandalorian, or The Last of Us. This claim underscores how his portrayal of the fiery Dornish prince, with its blend of charm and tragedy, showcased his ability to command attention, setting the stage for his franchise dominance.
From there, Pascal ventured into the gritty world of Narcos, playing DEA agent Javier Peña, a role that honed his ability to carry a narrative with intensity and emotional depth. This groundwork paved the way for his leap into sci-fi with The Mandalorian, where he dons the armor of Din Djarin, a stoic bounty hunter with a heart of gold. The role, which began on Disney+ in 2019, catapulted him into the Star Wars galaxy, a franchise known for its sprawling mythology and dedicated fanbase. His performance, often masked but conveyed through voice and presence, won over audiences, leading to the upcoming The Mandalorian & Grogu film, slated for a theatrical release on May 22, 2026. At Star Wars Celebration 2025, Pascal boldly called it “one of the greatest adventure movies that has ever been made,” a hyperbolic yet infectious endorsement that has heightened anticipation.
Conquering the Multiverse: Marvel and Beyond
Pascal’s franchise-hopping reached new heights with his entry into the MCU as Reed Richards, aka Mister Fantastic, in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, set to premiere on July 25, 2025. This role marks his debut in Marvel’s ever-expanding universe, where he joins Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as the iconic First Family. Pascal has openly admitted to finding the role “really intimidating,” citing the pressure to meet fan expectations while staying authentic to the character. This vulnerability, paired with his proven range, suggests he could redefine the stretchy genius in ways that honor the comics while adding his unique flair.
His MCU journey doesn’t end there. Pascal is also slated to appear in Avengers: Doomsday, scheduled for May 1, 2026, alongside a star-studded cast including Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and Florence Pugh. While details remain scarce, his inclusion hints at a significant role, potentially linking the Fantastic Four to the broader Multiverse Saga. This rapid integration into Marvel’s narrative reflects his status as a hot commodity, with fans on platforms like X marveling at his ability to juggle multiple franchises simultaneously.
Beyond Marvel, Pascal has already dipped into the DCEU with Wonder Woman 1984, where he portrayed the suave yet sinister Maxwell Lord. Though the film received mixed reviews, Pascal’s performance stood out, showcasing his capacity to handle high-stakes superhero roles with a mix of charisma and menace. This versatility extends to his upcoming projects, including Eddington, a modern Western from Ari Aster set for a July 18, 2025 release, and Materialists, a rom-com with Dakota Johnson and Chris Evans hitting theaters on June 13, 2025. These diverse genres demonstrate that Pascal’s “multiverse” isn’t confined to sci-fi but spans the entirety of cinematic storytelling.
The Cultural Phenomenon: Pascal’s Multiverse Appeal
Pascal’s dominance across franchises has sparked a cultural phenomenon, with fans and media alike dubbing him the king of modern entertainment. Posts found on X celebrate his prolific 2025 slate, with users noting his appearances in The Last of Us Season 2, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, and The Mandalorian & Grogu as evidence of his unrivaled demand. His ability to embody reluctant father figures—whether protecting Ellie, Baby Grogu, or potentially his Fantastic Four family—has earned him the affectionate “daddy” moniker, a title that blends admiration with playful affection.
This appeal is further amplified by his personal story. As the older brother of trans activist Lux Pascal, he has used his platform to advocate for inclusivity, notably wearing a “Protect Trans Dolls” shirt at the Thunderbolts premiere on April 22, 2025, in London. This act of solidarity, supported by his sister’s public praise of his kindness, endears him to fans, adding a layer of authenticity to his on-screen personas. His recent comments calling J.K. Rowling a “heinous loser” for anti-trans rhetoric further cement his reputation as a socially conscious star, resonating with a generation that values representation.
Challenges and Critiques of Franchise Saturation
While Pascal’s franchise-hopping is a marvel of modern stardom, it raises questions about sustainability and depth. Critics might argue that his rapid movement across universes risks diluting his impact, as each role demands significant preparation and emotional investment. His departure from The Last of Us after Joel’s death in Season 2, faithful to the video game source material, left fans reeling, with Pascal admitting to being in “active denial” about the twist. This suggests that even he grapples with the emotional toll of such high-profile exits, a challenge that could intensify as he balances multiple projects.
Moreover, the sheer volume of his commitments—spanning Star Wars, MCU, and independent films like Eddington—might stretch his availability thin. Yet, his ability to deliver standout performances, as seen in the 89% Rotten Tomatoes score for Prospect or the acclaim for The Wild Robot’s Fink, indicates a resilience that defies these concerns. His indie roots, showcased in the 2018 sci-fi thriller Prospect, remind audiences of his capacity to shine outside blockbuster constraints, suggesting that his “multiverse” is as much a creative playground as a commercial juggernaut.
The Future of Pascal’s Multiverse
Looking ahead, Pascal’s 2025 and 2026 slate promises to keep him at the forefront of entertainment. The Fantastic Four: First Steps will test his ability to lead a superhero team, while The Mandalorian & Grogu offers a chance to expand the Star Wars saga on the big screen. His roles in Avengers: Doomsday and Materialists will further diversify his portfolio, potentially cementing his status as a box office draw across genres. Rumors of a Dead Space TV series, though unconfirmed and likely fan-made, reflect the hunger for more Pascal-led sci-fi adventures.
This trajectory positions Pascal as a modern equivalent to actors like Harrison Ford or Tom Cruise, who defined multiple franchises over decades. However, his rapid ascent in a condensed timeframe—spanning just over a decade—sets him apart, making his career a “multiverse of madness” in its own right. As he navigates this expansive landscape, Pascal’s charm, talent, and authenticity ensure that each hop feels like a deliberate step in a grand narrative, one that fans are eager to follow.
In conclusion, Pedro Pascal’s casual conquest of sci-fi and major franchises is a phenomenon that blends talent with timing. From Game of Thrones to the MCU, his journey reflects a rare ability to embody diverse characters while maintaining a cohesive public persona. As he continues to hop through this multiverse, Pascal not only entertains but also redefines what it means to be a franchise icon in the 21st century, leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.
