Pedro Pascal has undeniably become one of the internet’s most beloved figures, a status solidified by his captivating roles in major franchises like The Mandalorian and HBO’s The Last of Us. This surge in popularity has led to a widespread online phenomenon: fans affectionately, and sometimes suggestively, dubbing him the “internet’s daddy.”
While Pascal himself has often played along with the moniker, his Last of Us co-star and close friend, Bella Ramsey, has shared a different perspective. Ramsey, who portrays Ellie, the surrogate daughter to Pascal’s Joel in the critically acclaimed series, recently opened up about their feelings regarding the popular nickname.
Bella Ramsey’s Protective Stance on the ‘Internet’s Daddy’ Label
Speaking in an interview, Bella Ramsey didn’t mince words about the “daddy” title. Despite initially admitting to having “played into it” somewhat in the past, they now feel the trend has potentially “gone too far.”
Ramsey explained their concern, stating they felt “worried for him.” They added, “I want to protect him from that whole joke of becoming the internet’s daddy. I was like, ‘I don’t want everyone to refer to you as that and see you as that. You’re so much more.’”
This sentiment highlights the deep bond forged between the two actors, often described as “soul partners” by Pascal. Their close relationship, mirroring their on-screen dynamic, gives weight to Ramsey’s protective feelings. It suggests an understanding of Pascal that goes beyond his public persona or the often sexually charged connotations associated with the “daddy” or “zaddy” labels.
The Nuance of Pascal’s ‘Daddy’ Persona
The “internet’s daddy” trend largely originated from Pascal’s roles as protective father figures to Grogu in The Mandalorian and Ellie in The Last of Us. While he initially engaged playfully with questions about the title, calling “daddy a state of mind” and joking about being a “cool, slutty daddy,” his reactions have shown a shift over time.
Instances like politely declining to read “thirst tweets” on a red carpet, reportedly calling them “Dirty, dirty!”, suggest moments where the intense focus on his sex appeal might become uncomfortable.
Pascal himself has offered a more grounded perspective, suggesting the title might be “a little role-related,” stemming directly from his paternal characters. He has continued to take on diverse projects, including upcoming roles in The Fantastic Four: First Steps and filming Avengers: Doomsday, demonstrating that the label hasn’t strictly limited his career.
However, Ramsey’s concern resonates with a segment of fans who feel the intense online focus on Pascal’s appearance risks overshadowing the decades of hard work he put in before achieving widespread recognition in his late 40s. This appreciation for his long journey has even fueled a “We need to protect Pedro at all costs” sentiment among some fans.
Ultimately, Bella Ramsey’s comments reflect a loving concern for their co-star, rooted in a genuine friendship and a desire to see his talent and long career appreciated beyond a viral internet nickname, however affectionate it may be.
