Pedro Pascal has emerged as the most sought-after actor in 2025, overtaking big names like Tom Cruise in Google’s trending searches. The focus keyword, Tom Cruise trending searches 2025, saw a major shift as Google’s Year in Search report highlighted a new leader among Hollywood’s most talked-about stars.
Prominent Stars Miss Out on Top Search Rankings
Typically, global recognition in acting circles is associated with stars such as Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, Will Smith, Brad Pitt, Robert De Niro, and Johnny Depp. However, none of these well-known actors appeared in Google’s list of top 10 trending actors for 2025. Instead, Pedro Pascal claimed the number one spot, surprising both fans and industry observers alike.
Understanding Google’s Year in Search 2025 Data
Google’s Year in Search report presents insights based on the highest-trending actor searches in the United States, covering the period from January 1 to November 25, 2025. It’s crucial to note these rankings are based on trending interest, reflecting notable spikes and changes in search behavior, rather than total lifetime or annual search volume.
The Ten Most Trending Actors of 2025
According to reporting by USA Today, here are the ten actors who led Google’s trending searches in 2025:
- Pedro Pascal
- (List continues based on original context, but only Pedro Pascal is detailed due to source limitations.)
Pedro Pascal’s Key Roles Elevate His Popularity in 2025
Following a high-profile performance in Ridley Scott’s 2024 epic, Gladiator II, Pedro Pascal’s prominence climbed even higher in 2025 thanks to his involvement in four significant projects:
- The Last of Us (Series): Pascal portrayed Joel, a resilient survivor tasked with protecting Ellie in a hostile, post-apocalyptic environment.
- Eddington (Film): He played Ted Garcia, a mayor caught in conflict during his re-election campaign in a small American town.
- Materialists (Film): Pascal appeared as Harry Castillo, navigating a complicated love triangle set amidst New York’s exclusive dating culture.
- The Fantastic Four: First Steps (Film): He took on the role of Reed Richards, a gifted scientist transformed into Mister Fantastic after acquiring special abilities.
Major Entertainment Trends Beyond Leading Actors
Google’s 2025 report also spotlighted trending successes in movies and television. The animated musical fantasy KPop Demon Hunters was the top trending film, followed by Sinners and The Minecraft Movie among cinematic releases. On the television front, The Hunting Wives took the leading spot, while The White Lotus and The Pitt rounded out the top three trending series.
Shifting Dynamics in Pop Culture and Online Interest
With Pedro Pascal’s ascent reflecting a changing landscape in both Hollywood and public fascination, the 2025 Google trends indicate evolving viewer tastes and renewed attention on emerging and versatile actors. As recognizable stars like Tom Cruise become less dominant in trending searches, audiences and industry professionals will be watching to see which new faces and stories capture attention in coming years.
