Kieran Culkin may have started as “Macaulay Culkin’s little brother,” but he has since carved out his own space in Hollywood, proving his talent time and again. With a knack for playing complex, often offbeat characters, Kieran has shown the world that he’s more than just a famous last name.
Kieran Culkin the Star
Early Life and Background
Kieran Kyle Culkin was born on September 30, 1982, in New York City. He was raised in a large family—seven kids in total—by his parents, Kit Culkin and Patricia Brentrup. The Culkins had a modest upbringing, living in a small apartment, and their father, a former stage actor, played a significant role in introducing the children to the world of acting.
The Journey from Child Actor to Hollywood Star
Like his older brother Macaulay, Kieran started acting at a young age. His first film role was in Home Alone (1990), where he played Kevin McCallister’s cousin, Fuller. Though it was a minor role, Kieran’s performance was memorable—especially for his infamous Pepsi-drinking antics.
Over the years, Kieran took on more acting projects, gradually stepping out of Macaulay’s shadow. He starred in movies like Father of the Bride (1991) and its sequel, The Mighty (1998), and Igby Goes Down (2002), which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. Unlike many child actors who struggle to transition into adult roles, Kieran carefully selected projects that showcased his range and talent.
The real game-changer for him came in 2018 with HBO’s Succession. Playing the witty, sharp-tongued, and sometimes unhinged Roman Roy, Kieran stole the show. His portrayal of the youngest Roy sibling, constantly teetering between arrogance and vulnerability, won audiences over. It also earned him multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations—and finally, a Golden Globe win in 2024.
Awards and Recognition
Kieran’s role in Succession brought him the acclaim he long deserved. Over the years, he has been nominated for numerous awards, including Primetime Emmys, Critics’ Choice Awards, and Golden Globes. His Golden Globe win in 2024 for Best Actor in a Drama Series solidified his place as a powerhouse performer.
Family Life
Kieran comes from a family deeply rooted in Hollywood. Apart from Macaulay, his other siblings include Rory Culkin (who is also an actor), Christian, Shane, Quinn, and Dakota (who tragically passed away in 2008). Despite their father’s pushy parenting style, Kieran has managed to maintain a relatively private and stable life.
In 2013, he married Jazz Charton, a former model and production designer. The couple shares two children—a daughter named Kinsey Sioux and a son born in 2021. Kieran has spoken openly about how fatherhood has changed his perspective on life and his career.
Net Worth and Business Ventures
Thanks to his long acting career, Kieran Culkin has built an impressive net worth. As of recent estimates, his fortune is believed to be around $5 to $6 million. Most of his wealth comes from acting, particularly from Succession, where he reportedly earned around $300,000 per episode in the later seasons.
Unlike some Hollywood stars, Kieran isn’t heavily involved in business ventures outside of acting. He prefers to focus on his craft rather than brand deals or entrepreneurial pursuits. However, with his rising fame, he may explore new opportunities in the entertainment industry, including directing or producing.
The Future Looks Bright
Kieran Culkin has come a long way from playing the quirky kid in Home Alone. His career is proof that patience, talent, and smart role choices can lead to success. With Succession wrapping up, fans are eager to see what he does next. Whatever it is, one thing is for sure—Kieran Culkin is a star in his own right, and he’s here to stay.
