Lux Pascal, the transgender actress and activist, has been making waves in Hollywood recently. While her brother, Pedro Pascal, has been receiving attention for his starring role in *Gladiator II*, it was Lux who stole the spotlight during the film’s red carpet premiere. Known for her stunning presence and confident attitude, Lux has carved her own path in the entertainment industry and beyond. In this article, we take an in-depth look at the life of Lux Pascal, exploring her journey of self-discovery, her career, and her incredible bond with her brother Pedro.
Early Life
Born on June 4, 1992, in California, Lux Pascal hails from a family with strong political and aristocratic ties in Chile. Her father, José Balmaceda Riera, and her mother, Verónica Pascal Ureta, are both members of the influential Balmaceda family. This family is closely linked to the Castilian-Basque aristocracy, which set the stage for a privileged upbringing.
However, everything changed after the 1973 Chilean coup. Lux’s mother, Verónica, was connected to Andrés Pascal Allende, the cousin of Salvador Allende and an important figure in the revolutionary movement. The family was forced into exile, seeking refuge in Denmark before eventually settling in San Antonio, Texas. Their time in the United States was followed by a move to Orange County, where her older brother Pedro had grown up.
When Lux was only three years old, the family returned to Chile, where Lux had to adjust to a completely new culture. This cultural shift was especially noticeable when she attended the prestigious Saint George’s College, a school that represented Chile’s social elite and exposed her to the stark class divisions in the country.
Challenges and Education
Growing up in a family that moved between different countries, Lux faced many challenges, from adjusting to new cultures to coping with the expectations placed on her as part of a prominent family. Despite these challenges, Lux thrived in her education and pursued her passion for acting. She enrolled at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, where she studied theater, and her passion for the craft only grew over time.
After completing her studies in Chile, Lux moved to New York to attend the prestigious Juilliard School, solidifying her career as an actress. It was during these years that she truly began to make a name for herself, both on stage and on screen. Her journey into the world of acting was marked by a relentless dedication to her craft and a deep commitment to pursuing her dreams.
Acting Career
Lux Pascal’s acting career began in 2014 when she made her stage debut in the play *La noche obstinada* by Pablo Rotemberg. This marked the beginning of her journey as a professional actress. In the same year, she landed her first television role on the Chilean series *Los 80*, where she portrayed the character Axel Miller. This breakthrough role set the stage for many more opportunities to come.
Over the years, Lux has appeared in a number of popular Chilean TV shows, including *Veinteañero a los 40* and *Juana Brava*. She has also starred in films such as *The Prince*, further establishing herself as an actress with a diverse range of roles. Her performances have been praised for their depth and authenticity, particularly as she navigates the complexities of portraying LGBTQIA+ characters.
Journey of Self-Discovery
Lux Pascal’s journey of self-discovery is a story of resilience and transformation. Growing up, Lux initially came out as a gay man, a decision she later realized was not fully aligned with her true self. In a heartfelt interview, she explained that coming out as a gay man was not difficult for her, but deep down, she knew it wasn’t who she truly was.
Over time, Lux came to understand her identity as nonbinary before fully embracing her true self as a transgender woman. In February 2021, Lux made the bold decision to publicly come out as a trans woman and change her name to Lux Pascal, reflecting her maternal surname. This marked a significant step in her journey, one that she has since embraced with pride and grace.
For Lux, this transition has been supported by her family, and particularly by her brother Pedro. Pedro has always been an unwavering ally to Lux, offering her emotional support and celebrating her transition. Their bond is one of mutual respect and admiration, and Pedro has played a key role in helping Lux navigate this deeply personal journey.
Family Support
Lux Pascal’s family has been instrumental in her journey. As a child of a politically influential family, Lux grew up in an environment where resilience and strength were valued. Her brother Pedro, who has become a household name in Hollywood, has been a particularly important figure in her life.
Pedro has been an advocate for Lux from the beginning, and his support for her transition has been unwavering. In a moving interview, Pedro spoke about his admiration for Lux, stating that she has always been one of the most powerful and inspiring people he knows. He has also publicly expressed his pride in Lux’s courage and strength, describing her as a role model for others.
Pedro’s support for Lux extends beyond just their personal relationship; he is also a passionate advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. He regularly uses his platform to speak out for trans rights and has shown solidarity with the community, especially when trans rights have been under attack. His social media posts, especially during Pride Month, are a testament to his dedication to the cause.
Activism
Beyond her acting career, Lux Pascal is also a passionate activist. She uses her platform to advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly focusing on trans rights. Lux believes in the importance of informed activism and speaks out against discrimination in all its forms, including transphobia, homophobia, and racism.
As a trans woman, Lux understands the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and works tirelessly to raise awareness and create a more inclusive and supportive world. She has become a strong voice for the trans community, encouraging others to embrace their identities and stand up against injustice.
Relationship
Lux Pascal has been in a long-term relationship with actor José Antonio Raffo since 2011. The couple, who met during their university days, have maintained a strong bond despite the physical distance that came with Lux’s move to New York to pursue her acting career. Their love has withstood the test of time, and they continue to be a source of support for one another.
In interviews, Raffo has spoken about his deep love for Lux, calling her his best friend and favorite actress. He has also expressed his admiration for her strength and resilience throughout her transition. The couple’s relationship is a testament to the power of love and mutual respect, and they continue to support each other both personally and professionally.
Living Arrangements
Lux Pascal appears to split her time between New York and Chile, balancing her professional commitments with her ties to her home country. Her social media gives followers glimpses into her life, from her time in New York to her visits to Chile. This transnational lifestyle allows Lux to stay connected to both her roots and her career.
Public Appearances
At the premiere of *Gladiator II*, Lux Pascal was a vision of elegance and confidence. While her brother Pedro made his Hollywood debut in the film, it was Lux who commanded attention on the red carpet. Dressed in a stunning long-sleeve dress with a daring cut and an emerald buckle accent, Lux exuded a sense of poise that left everyone in awe.
In the days following the premiere, Lux shared her thoughts on Instagram, expressing her gratitude for the love and support she received. She reflected on the hard work behind her success and expressed how proud she was to be Pedro’s sister. It was clear that the spotlight on Lux was just the beginning of what promises to be a bright and exciting future for the rising star.
