While Pedro Pascal continues to dominate the Hollywood spotlight, his younger sister, Lux Pascal, has been carving her own path as an actress, activist, and advocate for the LGBTQIA community. From her dramatic transformation to her rising career in entertainment, Lux’s story is one of courage, self-discovery, and unwavering support from her family.
A Family of Resilience
Born on June 4, 1992, in California, Lux Pascal, the youngest of four siblings, grew up in a family deeply connected to Chile’s political history. Her parents, José Balmaceda Riera and Verónica Pascal Ureta, belonged to the influential Balmaceda family, known for their ties to Chilean aristocracy.
After the 1973 Chilean coup, the family faced exile due to their connection to revolutionary leader Andrés Pascal Allende. They sought refuge in Denmark before relocating to Texas, where Pedro Pascal spent his formative years. At the age of three, Lux returned to Chile with her family, navigating the cultural challenges of her new home while growing up in a prestigious and often socially stratified environment.
The Early Acting Dream
Lux’s passion for acting took root in Chile, where she studied theater at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile. Her talent earned her a spot at New York’s prestigious Juilliard School, where her craft flourished. She made her acting debut in Pablo Rotemberg’s play La noche obstinada in 2014 and quickly gained recognition with roles in popular Chilean TV shows like Los 80, Juana Brava, and Veinteañero a los 40.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Lux’s path to self-discovery began with her first coming out as a gay man. However, she soon realized that this identity did not fully align with her true self. After coming out as nonbinary, Lux embraced her identity as a transgender woman.
In 2020, she began hormone therapy and, a year later, publicly announced her transition. Lux chose the name Pascal to honor her mother’s surname, symbolizing a fresh start.
“My transition has been something very natural for everyone in my family. It’s almost something that they expected to happen,” Lux said in an interview.
Her brother Pedro Pascal has been a steadfast ally throughout her journey. When Lux came out as trans during a FaceTime call, Pedro’s immediate response was one of love and support, saying, “Perfect, this is incredible.”
Building Her Own Legacy
While Lux may be the younger sibling of a Hollywood A-lister, she has refused to ride on her family’s coattails. Despite her privileged upbringing, Lux has faced challenges, particularly in Chile’s conservative entertainment industry, where her queer identity brought scrutiny and discrimination.
Today, she is celebrated as an American-Chilean actress and transgender activist. Her roles in film and television, including The Prince, have showcased her range and talent, while her advocacy for trans rights has made her a powerful voice against transphobia and discrimination.
A Love That Endures
Lux has been in a relationship with Chilean actor José Antonio Raffo since 2011. Their love has endured despite physical distance when Lux moved to New York for her studies. Raffo, who describes Lux as his “best friend and favorite actress,” has been a steadfast partner, and their bond continues to thrive after more than a decade together.
A Family United by Love
Lux’s family, especially Pedro, remains her biggest champions. Pedro frequently advocates for LGBTQIA rights and celebrates his sister’s courage and strength. He has described Lux as “one of the most powerful people and personalities I’ve ever known,” showcasing the deep bond between the siblings.
In March 2023, Pedro stood in solidarity with the trans community, sharing a rainbow flag on Instagram amidst growing attacks on trans rights. His advocacy goes beyond his role as an ally; it is a heartfelt expression of pride in Lux’s bravery and resilience.
Radiating Confidence and Glamour
Lux Pascal has not only made her mark as an activist and actress but also dazzled on the red carpet. At the Gladiator II premiere, Lux stunned in a form-fitting long-sleeve dress, standing proudly alongside her brother Pedro. She later shared her gratitude on Instagram, acknowledging the hard work and trust of those who have supported her journey.
“I am the proudest sister in the entire world,” she wrote, reflecting on the emotional weight of her recent successes.
A Voice for Change
As an outspoken advocate for the LGBTQIA community, Lux uses her platform to raise awareness and fight for equality. She believes in the power of activism to combat transphobia, homophobia, and racism, emphasizing the need for informed and strong voices in the fight for justice.
Looking Ahead
Lux Pascal continues to split her time between Chile and New York, balancing her growing acting career with her activism. Her journey from Lucas Balmaceda to Lux Pascal is a testament to the power of authenticity, family support, and resilience.
As she steps into the spotlight, Lux inspires countless individuals to embrace their true selves while proving that her story is more than a footnote in Pedro Pascal’s Hollywood fame—it is a dazzling narrative of its own.
