Zoe Saldaña's Emotional Golden Globe Win for 'Emilia Pérez'

Zoe Saldaña achieved a monumental milestone in her career by securing her first-ever Golden Globe award for her performance in the critically acclaimed film Emilia Pérez. The actress received the award for Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, and her emotional acceptance speech resonated with fans and fellow actors alike.

A Night to Remember

During the award ceremony, which took place on January 5, 2025, Saldaña’s heartfelt words celebrated the support of her family and collaborators. "This is a first time for me," she expressed, her voice quaking with emotion. Surrounded by her loved ones—her mother, sister, husband, Marco Perego, and their three sons—she emphasized, "My heart is full of gratitude." Saldaña’s speech was a touching acknowledgment of those who have been integral to her journey, including her fellow cast members and the film's director, Jacques Audiard.

Celebrating Accomplishments

Emilia Pérez, a musical thriller that has been widely praised, tells the story of a Mexican cartel member, Manitas, played by Sofia Gascon, who transitions into a woman named Emilia, portrayed by Saldaña. The film explores profound themes of identity and resilience, capturing audience attention. Saldaña was particularly appreciative of Audiard's trust in her portrayal of Rita, a character essential to the film's narrative.

As the night progressed, Emilia Pérez won a total of four Golden Globe awards, including Best Picture - Musical or Comedy and Best Non-English Language Film. The film’s success is a testament to its powerful storytelling and Saldaña's dynamic performance.

Messages from Hollywood Icons

The night was made even more special when director James Cameron—a long-time supporter of Saldaña—took a moment from editing Avatar to send her a congratulatory text. Reflecting on their history, Saldaña shared, "He believes in me, and that, to me, nourishes my desire to continue growing as an artist." Cameron, known for recognizing talent, once praised her versatility, calling her a “freaking lioness.” Their supportive relationship illustrates the collaborative spirit in Hollywood, highlighting how mentorship can shape an actress’s career.

Overcoming Doubts

In the wake of her victory, Saldaña opened up about her journey, mentioning moments when she contemplated stepping away from acting. "There was a moment a couple of years ago where I was sort of thinking about plan Bs. Like, do I go into a homestead and start planning a garden and baking goods?" she confessed. Yet her dedication to her craft prevailed. "I'm an artist through and through and I need to create every day," she stated, reinforcing her commitment to the art form.

Thanking Her Support System

Throughout her speech, Saldaña continuously focused on gratitude, thanking her family and peers who have always believed in her. As she said, "My family, my mom is here, my sister, my husband and my sons—I love you, you guys are everything." The emotional weight of her words left a memorable impact, capturing the essence of not just achieving fame but also the importance of loved ones in the journey.

Looking Forward

With 10 nominations at the upcoming Critics Choice Awards, Emilia Pérez continues to gain momentum this award season, promising more recognition for its exceptional narrative and performances. The film is currently streaming on Netflix, allowing more viewers to appreciate Zoe Saldaña’s remarkable work. As this awards season unfolds, the film's achievements and Saldaña's performance stand as a powerful reminder of the importance of storytelling in cinema.

By combining her well-deserved recognition with personal reflections, Saldaña’s Golden Globe win marks an inspiring chapter that resonates deeply within the entertainment industry and beyond.