Kieran Culkin, an American actor renowned for his versatility and compelling performances, has an impressive net worth of $5 million as of 2025. Starting his career alongside his famous brother Macaulay Culkin, Kieran quickly proved that his talent was more than just a family trait. With roles in both independent films and major television series, including his critically acclaimed portrayal of Roman Roy in HBO’s “Succession,” Culkin’s journey has been a testament to his remarkable acting skills and resilience. In this article, we delve into his career, earnings, and the path that led him to become one of Hollywood’s most respected actors.
Early Life and Background
Kieran Kyle Culkin was born on September 30, 1982, in New York City, making him 42 years old in 2025. He was raised in a family deeply rooted in the performing arts. His father, Kit Culkin, was a former Broadway stage actor, and his mother, Patricia Brentrup, managed their large household of seven children. Kieran is the fourth of seven siblings, many of whom pursued acting careers, including Macaulay and Rory Culkin. His heritage is a mix of Irish, German, English, Swiss-German, and French descent from his father’s side and German and Norwegian from his mother’s side.
Growing up in such an environment, it was almost inevitable that Kieran would find himself in front of the camera. However, his path was not without challenges. Following his parents’ separation in 1994, Kieran has remained estranged from his father, a personal struggle that he has managed to keep private despite his public career.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Kieran Culkin’s acting debut came in 1990 when he played Fuller McCallister, the bed-wetting cousin of Kevin McCallister, in the holiday classic “Home Alone,” starring his brother Macaulay. This role, though small, was enough to put him on Hollywood’s radar. He continued to build his portfolio with roles in “Father of the Bride” (1991) alongside Steve Martin and Diane Keaton and its sequel, “Father of the Bride Part II” (1995).
His early roles often left him overshadowed by his brother’s fame, but Kieran’s breakout performance came in 2002 with the indie film “Igby Goes Down.” His portrayal of a rebellious teenager earned him a Golden Globe nomination and several awards, including the Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Young Performer. This film solidified his reputation as a serious actor capable of carrying complex roles.
Transition to Mature Roles
The 2000s saw Kieran transitioning smoothly into more mature roles. His performances in “The Cider House Rules” (1999), “The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys” (2002), and “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” (2010) showcased his versatility. His ability to balance dark humor with deep emotional undertones became his signature style.
In addition to film, Culkin explored television, making appearances on “Saturday Night Live” (1991), “Frasier” (1996), and “Fargo” (2015). His stage work was also noteworthy, with critically acclaimed performances in “The Moment When” (2000) and “This is Our Youth,” which had successful runs at prestigious venues like the Garrick Theatre in London and the Sydney Opera House.
Rise to Fame with ‘Succession’
Kieran Culkin’s career reached new heights with HBO’s hit series “Succession” (2018-2023), where he played Roman Roy, a sharp-tongued and emotionally complex media executive. His portrayal earned him widespread acclaim, several award nominations, and ultimately, an Emmy Award in 2024 for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. His ability to bring depth to a character that is both deeply flawed and strangely endearing made Roman Roy one of the most memorable characters on television.
Culkin’s salary on “Succession” reflected his growing influence in the industry. During the first two seasons, he earned $100,000 per episode, amounting to $2 million. By the third season, his per-episode salary was increased to $350,000, bringing his earnings for the season to $3.5 million. This significant pay rise not only boosted his net worth but also underscored his importance to the series’ success.
Film Accolades and Recent Achievements
In addition to his television success, Kieran continued to build his filmography with roles in “Margaret” (2011), “Movie 43” (2013), and “Infinity Baby” (2017). His ability to switch seamlessly between independent films and mainstream projects highlighted his versatility.
In January 2025, Culkin’s acting prowess was further recognized when he won a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the 2024 film “A Real Pain.” This win was a significant milestone in his career, reinforcing his position as one of Hollywood’s most talented actors.
Personal Life
Kieran Culkin married Jazz Charton in 2013. The couple shares two children: daughter Kinsey Sioux and son Wilder Wolf. Culkin’s personal life remains relatively private, with the actor occasionally sharing glimpses of his family life in interviews. His grounded personality and ability to keep his private life out of the limelight have earned him respect in an industry often plagued by scandals.
Net Worth and Earnings
Kieran Culkin’s net worth of $5 million can be attributed to his successful acting career, spanning over three decades. His earnings from “Succession” alone contributed significantly to this figure, alongside his numerous film roles and stage performances. In addition to acting, endorsements and collaborations also play a part in his income, though details remain private.
Challenges and Resilience
Culkin’s journey was not without its challenges. Being in the shadow of his more famous brother, Macaulay, was a hurdle that Kieran had to overcome. His ability to carve out a distinct identity for himself speaks volumes about his resilience and dedication to his craft. By choosing complex, character-driven roles, Kieran ensured that his acting would stand out, irrespective of comparisons.
Future Prospects
At 42, Kieran Culkin’s career shows no signs of slowing down. With new projects lined up and a proven track record of choosing roles that resonate with both critics and audiences, the future looks bright. Fans eagerly await his next move, hoping to see more of the raw, unfiltered performances that have become his trademark.