From Game of Thrones to The Last of Us: Pedro Pascal's journey to Emmy contention

With a string of successful TV shows under his belt, including "The Last of Us" and "The Mandalorian", Pedro Pascal is leaving an indelible mark on the small screen landscape. Known for his roles as Oberyn Martell in "Game of Thrones", and more recently as the titular character in "The Mandalorian", Pascal has cultivated a distinctive and enduring presence in the industry. His portrayal of Joel, a hardened survivor, in the critically acclaimed TV adaptation "The Last of Us", has positioned him as a strong contender for an Emmy nod, which if received, would make him the second-ever Latino actor to be recognized in the category.

Recalling his experiences during the 11-month production of "The Last of Us", Pascal offered insights into the challenges and the joys he encountered. Filming in the rugged landscapes of Alberta, Canada, the actor and his crew braved harsh conditions and tight schedules, an endeavor that he described as a "very specific kind of physical labor." Despite these trials, the actor found pleasure in the project, stating "it was more fun than anything else because of how delicious the scripts are".

Beyond his television successes, Pascal has been involved in various intriguing ventures. This includes a series of enigmatic commercials for Metacore's mobile game "Merge Mansion", shot in Lisbon, and a notable appearance in Pedro Almodóvar's queer western short film, "Strange Way of Life". The actor's diverse ventures, from games to the big screen, reflect his versatility and adaptability, traits that have no doubt contributed to his rising fame.

With the future of "The Last of Us" season two still undetermined and new projects on the horizon, it's safe to say that Pascal's career is far from plateauing. But despite the whirlwind of stardom, the actor remains grounded, displaying a clear passion for his craft that sets him apart in Hollywood. His meteoric rise has been marked not only by his talent but also by his dedication and resilience, promising an even brighter future in the industry.