Pete Davidson, the former Saturday Night Live cast member, has made a notable prediction concerning Walton Goggins’ rising fame following his role on The White Lotus. Drawing a parallel with Pedro Pascal’s recent surge in visibility, Davidson foresees a similar public backlash affecting Goggins as his popularity grows, highlighting the challenges that fame can bring.
Walton Goggins has built a strong television presence over the years with standout roles in series such as The Shield and Justified. In recent times, however, his profile has dramatically increased through high-profile projects like Fallout and The White Lotus, earning him Emmy nominations in 2024 and 2025, although he did not claim the awards, which went to Hiroyuki Sanada and Tramell Tillman, respectively.
Davidson’s Perspective on Celebrity Popularity and Its Challenges
During a candid conversation on Theo Von’s podcast, This Past Weekend, Pete Davidson discussed how quickly the public shifts from admiring to criticizing celebrities. He used Pedro Pascal as a prime example, explaining how Pascal’s career exploded after years of hard work and modest recognition. Specifically, Davidson said,
He’s in everything now ’cause he’s hot and big and everyone’s like, ‘Go the f*** away, dude.’
– Pete Davidson, Comedian
Davidson emphasized how new fame demands adjustment, as the sudden influx of attention can overwhelm even seasoned actors. He reflected on Pascal’s journey of three decades spent striving for success before rocketing into stardom, which includes learning to navigate everyday activities amid public scrutiny. Davidson warned that celebrities should be given time to adapt rather than immediately facing backlash.
He then suggested that Walton Goggins might soon encounter the same pattern. Davidson predicted,
They’re gonna do it with Walton Goggins. [He] will be next,
– Pete Davidson, Comedian
Repeating his thoughts later in the interview, Davidson stated,
Look at Pedro Pascal right now. F***ing two years ago he’s a hardworking, great actor…He’s worked so hard and has been a struggling actor, [then] f***ing blows up so f***ing hard, everyone’s like, ‘Daddy, daddy! Yeah, daddy, daddy.’ And then a year later, he’s, like, in everything now ’cause he’s hot and big and everyone’s like, ‘Go the f*** away, dude.’
You got to give someone time to adjust to that new level of fame. He’s been banging at it for 30 years, and now he’s learning how to go get a cup of coffee or deal with someone that taps you on the shoulder while you have your earbuds in and freaks you out. You got to give that guy a f***ing second to, like, adjust.
They’re gonna do it with Walton Goggins, [he] will be next. It’s like, we build everybody up and now it’s so fast to turn. It’s within months.
– Pete Davidson, Comedian
Walton Goggins’ Response to the Prediction
Walton Goggins has publicly acknowledged Davidson’s remarks with appreciation, responding on Instagram by recognizing the transient nature of success at 53 years old. He stated,
every experience has a shelf life,
– Walton Goggins, Actor
Goggins did not view Davidson’s forecast as negative; instead, he called it a “blessing” because it reflects the ups and downs inherent in a career in entertainment. Reflecting on his upbringing in Georgia and his journey from poverty to recognition, Goggins considers himself fortunate simply to have achieved such success. He expressed his willingness to embrace any upcoming changes in public opinion, declaring,
going to enjoy the F*** OUT OF IT.
– Walton Goggins, Actor
Understanding the Context Behind Pedro Pascal’s Rapid Rise
Davidson’s comparison to Pedro Pascal stems from the latter’s rapid climb to stardom. Pascal first gained prominent attention through his role in Game of Thrones, which introduced him to a larger audience despite not being a main cast member. Since then, he has built an extensive portfolio including notable films such as Kingsman: The Golden Circle, The Equalizer 2, Wonder Woman 1984, and Gladiator II, alongside television series like Narcos.
Pascal’s breakthrough into widespread fame came in late 2019 with his leading role in Star Wars’ inaugural live-action series, The Mandalorian, followed by his starring role in The Last of Us, a post-apocalyptic series adapted from a popular video game. Recently, he has appeared as Reed Richards in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, further cementing his position in Hollywood’s upper echelon.
Despite this success, Pascal’s increasing visibility has attracted more scrutiny and criticism from the public and social media, some of which may be undeserved. Davidson’s observations highlight how quickly admiration can turn into backlash when a celebrity becomes omnipresent.
What This Could Mean for Walton Goggins Moving Forward
The anticipated backlash predicted by Davidson is a common phenomenon that accompanies sudden fame. However, Goggins appears well-prepared to handle any shifts in public sentiment, as evidenced by his measured and grateful demeanor. His consistent performances and multiple award nominations reflect his dedication and talent, qualities that often sustain long-term careers beyond fleeting popularity.
For Goggins, the rapid change in public perception may be an expected part of the entertainment industry’s cycle, and his openness to the experience may allow him to navigate these challenges effectively. His humility and acknowledgment of the ‘shelf life’ of fame may resonate positively with fans, potentially deepening their admiration for him.
The Cultural Impact of The White Lotus and Its Ensemble Cast
The White Lotus, known for exploring the intricate relationships between resort guests and staff, has captivated audiences since its 2021 debut. The show highlights the underlying conflicts and tensions beneath the picturesque setting of an upscale tropical resort, bringing to light complex character dynamics and social commentary.
Besides Walton Goggins, the series features talented actors like Jon Gries, Natasha Rothwell, Greg Hunt, and Belinda Lindsey, all contributing to the layered storytelling. Their performances amplify the show’s exploration of both guest and employee experiences, adding depth to the narrative’s portrayal of privilege and human behavior under pressure.
