Zoe Saldaña Wins First Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in ‘Emilia Pérez’

Los Angeles: Zoe Saldaña secured her first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her powerful performance in “Emilia Pérez”, marking a historic and emotional moment in her career. The win capped off a dominant awards season, with Saldaña previously earning top honors at the Golden Globes, British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs), Critics Choice Awards, and Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards.

Overcome with emotion, Saldaña took the stage and immediately turned to her mother and family in the audience, calling out, “Mami! Mami!” in excitement.

“I am floored by this honor,” she said through tears. “Thank you to the Academy for recognizing the quiet heroism and the power in a woman like Rita, and for telling stories about powerful women. My fellow nominees, the love and community you have shown me is a true gift, and I will pay it forward.”

Saldaña accepted the award from Da’Vine Joy Randolph, last year’s Best Supporting Actress winner, who praised her performance.

“You took us on a journey that made us question the very limits we put on ourselves,” Randolph said. “And then you showed us exactly how to break them. You are fearless, and it is so inspiring to watch.”

Saldaña, who has built a career in blockbuster franchises like “Avatar,” “Guardians of the Galaxy,” and “Star Trek,” has long been recognized for her versatility. However, her win for “Emilia Pérez” marks a turning point, solidifying her as a formidable dramatic actress in Hollywood.

In her speech, Saldaña reflected on her family’s immigrant journey and the significance of her win.

“My grandmother came to this country in 1961. I am a proud child of immigrant parents, with dreams, dignity, and hard-working hands,” she said. “And I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award. And I know I will not be the last.”