Pedro Pascal's affectionate nature sparks debate during 'Fantastic Four' press tour

Pedro Pascal has been popping up everywhere lately, and it’s not just because he’s everyone’s favourite “daddy.”

During the press tour for his new movie, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, videos of Pascal getting cosy with his co-star Vanessa Kirby, who plays the Invisible Woman, have gone viral.

In the clips, the two are seen holding hands, leaning into one another, and even gently rubbing arms.

To some, it looks like there might be a romantic spark between them.

But that’s not the case at all.

In fact, Pascal has been quite open about why he acts this way. 

He’s previously spoken about his struggles with anxiety, especially in high-pressure situations like public events and interviews.

For him, physical touch is a way to stay grounded. He’s mentioned how being close to someone, or even placing a hand on his own chest, helps manage those anxious feelings.

Kirby has also addressed the clips, confirming that both of them were nervous during some of these big events.

“He does have anxiety, and he’s been open about it,” Kirby said at the 2024 San Diego Comic-Con. “But the way he holds your hand or anchors you? That’s him being protective, not anxious.”

If you watch closely, you’ll notice she often reciprocates the closeness, too.

Still, reactions to the videos have been mixed.

Many fans find Pascal’s affectionate nature charming and admire his openness about mental health. 

They point out that Kirby clearly isn’t uncomfortable, and in an industry where co-stars often spend long hours together, a close, platonic bond isn’t unusual.

Others, however, feel the level of physical contact crosses a line. 

Words like “creepy” and “inappropriate” have popped up online, especially amid ongoing conversations around consent and professional boundaries.

Some have also questioned why this kind of “anxiety touching” seems to happen more frequently with female co-stars.

Then there’s a third camp of people suggesting that the backlash is part of a coordinated smear campaign. 

Pascal, a vocal supporter of transgender rights, has been outspoken against anti-trans views, which has prompted theories that certain groups are trying to discredit him and sway public opinion.

Whatever the reason, I’m just happy to see more of Pedro Pascal on my feed, even if it’s just for his impeccable style.

IOL Entertainment