Pedro Pascal is now facing unexpected backlash after a red carpet interaction with Fantastic Four: First Steps co-star Vanessa Kirby ignited a social media storm. In a viral video, Pascal gently places a hand on Kirby while holding her hand during a press appearance.
Viewers initially praised the moment as a warm and grounding gesture, but it quickly morphed into a meme. Critics are now questioning whether Pascal’s previously admired behavior reflects selective social anxiety – one that seemingly surfaces only around attractive female co-stars.
Pedro ‘Rascal’
Online users have coined the term “hot girl anxiety” to describe how Pascal appears visibly nervous or unusually tactile around conventionally beautiful women. While many fans have defended him, others argue that public settings like red carpets can blur the line between genuine anxiety and performative intimacy.
Pascal has openly discussed his struggles with anxiety. In a 2025 interview with Men’s Health, the Materialists and Eddington star described how the isolation of the pandemic disrupted his ability to connect with others, leading to emotional disconnection and a need to rebuild his social instincts.
“I always try to reach out when something feels overwhelming or makes me anxious,” he said, adding that he often uses grounding techniques-like placing a hand on his chest-to manage stress during public events.
Vanessa Kirby addressed the red carpet moment directly in an interview, saying, “He does have anxiety, and he’s been open about it… The way he holds your hand or anchors you? That’s him being protective, not anxious.”
The moment has split public opinion. Some fans see the memes as harmless fun, while others view the scrutiny as unfair toward an actor known for his emotional openness and quiet vulnerability.
Trans Rights
Pascal had earned praise at the same premiere for assisting his sister Lux with her outfit – a gesture many highlighted as another example of the warmth that once made him so beloved. He also stood up for his sister and slammed J.K. Rowling while discussing trans rights, calling Rowling’s action “heinous loser behavior.”
His superhero debut in Fantastic Four: First Steps hits UK theatres on 24 July 2025. Pascal stars as Reed Richards, aka Mr. Fantastic, alongside Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach in a reboot of Marvel’s iconic franchise.
Kirby revealed her baby bump in the premiere last month.
Also Read: Dakota Johnson Reveals Pedro Pascal Once Encouraged Her To Start OnlyFans
