Stanisland Magazine

New controversy surrounding the actor is revealing. But the frenzy sheds a spotlight on something else

Pedro Pascal has caused quite the ruckus, it seems. With his hands-on approach to remedying his anxiety, many have been left asking the question: Who else copes this way? Why become a megastar actor in the first place? All these questions and more are valid, though nuance is required to understand the situation.

Pedro Suffers from Anxiety

While it may not be crippling anxiety, it has apparently become such a problem for the Game of Thrones star that he has developed coping mechanisms to function in society.

The actor never claims this, but rumours abound say he manages the problem through touch. This first came to light when he was seen gently touching co-star Vanessa Kirby on the back, who shortly thereafter held his hand. It generated a frenzy of ‘aww’ moments and ‘isn’t that sweet’ comments. But later, to some, their behaviour seemed suspicious.

More Touching

As time went by, the Fantastic Four actor and his co-star became more handsy, and more moments arose with other actors and actresses who also experienced the same. However, this anxiety, it seems, develops at odd moments—despite footage of him joking around, pulling pranks, and being the life of the party.

Whatever it is, everyone is different—though it’s certainly stirred the pot and created some incredible memes. Still, it’s pretty funny he was cast as Mr Fantastic.

Kirby and Pascal Have a Different Point of View

When asked about the incidents, Kirby said: “What happened is we were both incredibly nervous going out in front of thousands of people who love this comic. He wanted me to know that we were in this together, and I found it a lovely gesture and was very glad to squeeze his hand back.”

READ MORE: ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’: New Movie Clip Drops

“I get emotional sometimes thinking about the fact that I lived through that and I had these three incredible men by my side who, just in the movie metaphorically, but also in life were just totally there with me.”

She later described her interactions with Pascal as “heavenly,” and that “We love each other so much.”

Pascal was equally excitable when asked about their public interactions: “We’re always holding hands when we’re off carpet, by the way.”

“So, to have the opportunity to stand by one, to learn from one — just a partner, it’s partnership; it’s male and female, but it’s also just a kind of transcendent sort of partnership in the work and in the characters. And, so I don’t really know what the f— I’m gonna do without you [Vanessa] honestly.”

Public Reaction

Since most news outlets aren’t covering this story, social media is the best place to glean public sentiment. On Threads, the general response is one of support, with a collective of people voicing their backing for the Chilean performer: “Tbf Pedro has been called out lately for being overly flirty with people who are in full blown relationships. Men are probably taking their opportunity to complain about him since pedro has been seen as the “ideal man” for a while.”

Many have jokingly responded to questions about the happenings. One Threads user asked: “I’m sorry what is the controversy with Pedro Pascal? Someone help me.”…”He hasn’t responded to any of my dms” one respondent quipped.

Others say it is all to do with male insecurities: “He’s an actual nice guy. People love him and some people can’t handle it so there are trying to find any lame excuse to try to get him canceled.”

There is plenty of support for Pascal, with many who claim: “Funny how men who hate someone they don’t even know personally never want to hear from the people who actually know him.”

Final Thoughts

The situation is revealing of both sides of the discourse. On the one hand, you’ve got cry-babies, and on the other, more whining fuss-pots. If anything, it shows society’s excessive and over-the-top adoration for a circle that, quite simply, shouldn’t really matter.

Now, I’ll grant that art moves and changes civilisations, but the current scope of its form does not warrant any interest. It’s not changing anything any time soon, and until anything concrete comes out on either side — let it go.

Honestly, this story has showcased how pro-Pedro and anti-Pascal commentators are just creeps themselves. So, what’s the truth of the matter? Nothing, get a life, all of you. Hollywood is a weird place, full stop. He’s a great actor and we’ll leave it at that. Perhaps focus on the people in your own life instead.

Photo: Gage Skidmore