Oscars 2025: Zoe Saldana wins historic first Academy Award for Emilia Pérez; delivers an emotional speech

Zoe Saldana delivers an emotional speech after winning Oscar awards; Image Credits: Reuters

Zoe Saldaña has officially joined the ranks of Oscar winners, taking home the Best Supporting Actress award at the 2025 Academy Awards for her powerful performance in Emilia Pérez. The Avatar and Guardians of the Galaxy star, who has been a fan favourite for years, finally secured her first Oscar after a string of victories at the BAFTAs, Critics Choice Awards, Golden Globes, and SAG Awards.

Saldaña's win is not just a personal milestone—it’s a historic moment. She is now the first American of Dominican origin to win an Academy Award, marking a significant step forward in representation at the Oscars.

During her tearful acceptance speech, Saldaña expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am floored by this honour. Thank you to the Academy for recognising the quiet heroism and power in a woman like Rita.” She also paid tribute to her fellow nominees—Monica Barbaro (A Complete Unknown), Ariana Grande (Wicked), Felicity Jones (The Brutalist), and Isabella Rossellini (Conclave)—calling them an inspiration.

She continued, “The love and community you have given me is a gift. I will pay it forward… To my cast and my crew, I am sharing this award with you.”

Zoe also spoke about the role of immigrants in the arts. “My grandmother came to this country in 1961. I am a proud child of immigrant parents with dreams and dignity and hardworking hands, and I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award,” Saldana said.

“I know I will not be the last. I hope the fact that I’m getting an award for a role where I got to sing and speak in Spanish – my grandmother, if she were here, she would be so delighted.”

Her remarks come as the administration of President Donald Trump cracks down on immigration in the US.

In Emilia Pérez, directed by Jacques Audiard, Saldaña delivers a gripping performance as Rita Mora Castro, a Mexico City lawyer who becomes entangled in a high-stakes and deeply personal case. Tasked with helping a notorious cartel boss transition through gender-affirming surgery, Rita finds herself navigating both legal and emotional complexities. The Spanish-language musical thriller, loosely adapted from Boris Razon’s novel Écoute, debuted on Netflix on October 25, 2024, and has since captivated audiences worldwide.

Having starred in some of the biggest blockbuster franchises, Zoe has now solidified her place in Hollywood history with a performance that blends intensity, emotion, and nuance.