She Is a Presence Everywhere

Pedro Pascal Finds His Mother’s Presence in Every Success: “I Feel Her Witness All Around Me”

Pedro Pascal, known for his magnetic on-screen presence and candor, continues to capture audiences—not just with acclaimed roles in major projects like The Last of Us and Materialists, but with his openness about grief and family. In a recent conversation with Vanity Fair, Pascal offered heartfelt reflections on losing his mother, María Verónica Pascal Ureta, at the age of 24, revealing how her memory shapes every achievement in his life.

An Ever-Present Legacy

Pascal’s mother, a Chilean child psychologist who sought safety in exile for her young family, remains a guiding presence for the actor. “I still feel like I’m being mothered sometimes. I feel her witness all around me. I don’t feel like any of this right now would be happening if it weren’t for her,” he shared in Vanity Fair’s July cover story. The “this” Pascal refers to is his meteoric rise: after years of struggle, he’s now starring in three movies premiering in one summer, drawing acclaim not just for his talent but for his authenticity and vulnerability. The actor’s openness about his journey—from hardship to international recognition—has played a significant role in his public persona, making him an “internet boyfriend” to fans worldwide.

Grief and Remembrance in the Spotlight

Throughout his career, Pascal has paid tribute to his mother, both in interviews and rare social media posts. In a 2020 interview with People, Pascal described Verónica as “always incredibly supportive, never a stage mom,” and recalled her enduring intuition about his potential. This unwavering support shaped the close-knit bond Pedro shares with his siblings—older sister Javiera, younger sister Lux, and younger brother Nicolás. The loss of their mother only deepened Pascal’s protective instincts: “They were very young…we would still feel parental toward them,” he told Esquire.

A defining moment for Pascal was hosting Saturday Night Live for the first time on the anniversary of his mother’s passing—a week that brought waves of panic and transformation. “I just felt like my mother was there. And — and I don’t know what else to say. It was a complete transformation of an anniversary,” he told Vanity Fair. After long rehearsal days, he’d address his mother directly: “I love you. I miss you. Thank you. I’m scared. I would love it if you would help me believe in myself, because I know you do. You know?”

Public and Private Tributes

While Pedro Pascal rarely posts about his mother on social media, he dedicated a touching Instagram tribute in February 2021, marking her birthday: “Mom, here you are in Denmark at 22. Married, a refugee, and a mother of two. Years later you get two more, another son and another daughter. We’re doing great, we’re taking care of ourselves. Not a day goes by that you are not with us and we thank you for that. Happy birthday, mom.” This poignant post continues to resonate, offering insight into how Pascal’s family history and grief remain integral to his day-to-day motivation and gratitude.

The Thread of Loss in Pascal’s Public Image

Pascal’s honest approach to grieving has helped destigmatize open discussions about loss among public figures. His willingness to blend personal vulnerability with professional achievements is rare and is part of what endears him to fans and colleagues alike. As The Last of Us co-star Bella Ramsey reflected, their off-screen friendship with Pascal persisted even as their characters’ on-screen bond shifted—an example of the actor’s steadfast loyalty and emotional depth.

Further Reading

• Pedro Pascal’s internet boyfriend status and rise to fame
• Read more from Pascal’s Vanity Fair interview
• Pedro Pascal reflects on his mother’s legacy with People
• See Pedro Pascal’s heartfelt tribute to his mother on Instagram
• Explore Pascal’s sibling bonds and influence in Esquire’s profile

Pedro Pascal’s story reminds us that presence extends beyond life—his mother’s memory, witness, and unconditional support remain woven into each step of his ongoing journey.