Zoe Saldaña has officially joined Hollywood’s elite Oscar winners after taking home the Best Supporting Actress award at the 97th Academy Awards for her role as Rita Moro Castro in Emilia Pérez. This marks her first-ever Oscar win and nomination, cementing her place as one of the industry's most versatile actresses.
Zoe Saldaña’s Career-Defining Performance
Saldaña’s performance in Emilia Pérez, directed by Jacques Audiard, captivated audiences and critics alike. The film, a crime drama musical, follows the journey of a Mexican cartel leader who undergoes gender transition while evading law enforcement.
As Rita Moro Castro, a determined lawyer caught in the complex world of crime and identity, Saldaña delivered a powerful and emotionally charged performance that earned widespread acclaim.
Film Highlights:
- Emilia Pérez was the most-nominated film of the night with 13 nominations, a record for a non-English language film.
- The film blends thriller, drama, and musical elements, creating a groundbreaking cinematic experience.
Emotional Oscar Speech
A visibly emotional Zoe Saldaña took the stage at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, accepting her golden statuette with tears of joy.
"I am floored by this honor. This moment belongs to every Latina, every woman, and every dreamer who has ever been told they couldn't," she said.
She thanked her family, especially her mother, for their unwavering support, and praised director Jacques Audiard for trusting her with such a transformative role.
Saldaña’s Historic Win & Industry Impact
This win is particularly significant because:
First Oscar Win for Saldaña – After decades in Hollywood, she finally gets her long-overdue recognition.
Representation Matters – Her win is a landmark moment for Latina representation in Hollywood.
Breaking Barriers – She has starred in some of the highest-grossing films in history (Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy), and now she’s an Oscar-winning actress.
Before this, Saldaña had already won the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress for the same role, making her one of the strongest contenders at this year’s Oscars.
What’s Next for Zoe Saldaña?
Upcoming Projects:
- She is set to star in Avatar 4 & 5, continuing her role as Neytiri in James Cameron’s blockbuster franchise.
- She will also headline a new sci-fi thriller from Denis Villeneuve, director of Dune.
With her Oscar win, Saldaña’s career is reaching new heights, and fans can expect even bigger, bolder roles in the coming years.