Walton Goggins, known for his recent high-profile roles, addressed a prediction by Pete Davidson that public interest in him might fade over time. On Sunday, September 28, Goggins shared a Hollywood Reporter piece highlighting Davidson’s comments about the nature of fame, particularly referencing Goggins’ rising recognition. The discussion stemmed from an interview Davidson gave on Theo Von’s This Past Weekend podcast and was published on Friday, September 26.
In the interview, Davidson reflected on Pedro Pascal’s swift ascent in the entertainment industry before turning to Goggins. Davidson said,
“Look at Pedro Pascal right now. Two years ago, he’s a hardworking, great actor … [then] f***ing blows up so f***ing hard,”
before adding,
“And then a year later, he’s, like, in everything now … and everyone’s like, ‘Go the f*** away, dude.’ They’re gonna do it with Walton Goggins, [he] will be next.”
Goggins Addresses the Reality of Fame and His Own Journey
Sharing the article on Instagram along with photos from his travels, Goggins responded directly to Davidson’s remarks with a candid and reflective caption. He acknowledged,
“I saw this article and had to respond. (Pete was talking about his own experience),”
and added,
“Pete we don’t know each other but I appreciate the heads up.”
Goggins agreed with Davidson’s praise of Pascal, calling him “a great man,” while also reflecting on his own experiences of popularity gained from shows like The White Lotus and The Righteous Gemstones. He expressed an acute awareness of the temporary nature of fame, writing,
“As a 53 yr old, I’m acutely aware that every experience has a shelf life. I appreciate so many of you going on this journey with me. I imagine a lot of you (and I don’t blame you) are tired of hearing my homilies. Trust me I’m tired of saying them,”
signaling his understanding of audience fatigue.
Though he asked fans to avoid clicking on headlines involving his name, Goggins expressed gratitude when they did, describing the inclusion in such stories as
“a blessing. How lucky am I that this is even a possibility?!!”
He continued,
Image of: Pete Davidson
“Way more than a poor kid from GA would ever have the audacity to imagine. I wouldn’t take one back.”
In a defiant tone that captures both resilience and acceptance, Goggins concluded,
“If saying yes in life more than saying no is a crime, then I’m guilty as charged. And If this headline is a possibility or an inevitability … if this is my fate … Well … f*** it. I’m going to enjoy the F*** OUT OF IT.”
Fan and Peer Responses Reflect Support for Goggins’ Career
Beyond his post, Goggins interacted with fans and co-stars in the comments section, further illustrating his grounded approach to fame. Responding to a fan who appreciated his role in the TV series Fallout, Goggins promised,
“I promise we won’t let you down,”
highlighting his dedication to his projects.
Patrick Schwarzenegger, a co-star from The White Lotusseason 3, also left encouraging words, writing, “Keep going brother ❤️,” signaling camaraderie and support within the industry.
Speaking about Pedro Pascal, whom he described as “a dear friend of mine,” Goggins assured fans they would continue their steady presence in entertainment, stating,
“we will keep showing up I promise.”
What This Exchange Reveals About Fame’s Uncertainty and Resilience
Goggins’ public response to Pete Davidson’s fame forecast captures the complex nature of stardom in today’s entertainment world. While Davidson speculates on how quickly public interest can wane, Goggins embraces the impermanence with a mixture of realism and gratitude. His willingness to “say yes” to opportunities and fully enjoy the experience—even if it may fade—signals an acceptance rarely seen from actors navigating sudden fame later in their careers.
This exchange also highlights the unpredictable trajectory of actors like Pedro Pascal and Walton Goggins, whose respect for their craft endears them to fans and peers alike. For Goggins, the interaction marks a moment of reflection amid growing recognition, underscoring his grounded attitude despite the pressures of fame.
As Goggins continues to take on new roles, his confident mindset and connection with audiences and collaborators suggest that regardless of how public interest shifts, he remains committed to his artistic journey and the work ahead.
