'This is for my grandmother!' Zoe Saldaña’s heartfelt Oscars tribute reveals her hopes for the future of cinema
Zoe Saldaña made history at the 2025 Oscars, delivering one of the most emotional speeches of the night.
Winning Best Supporting Actress for her role in Emilia Pérez, she made history as the first American of Dominican origin to take home an Academy Award.
But the victory was not just a personal milestone for the actress - it was about her family, her heritage, and most importantly, her grandmother.
The star was visibly moved as she began her acceptance speech, "My mom is here. My whole family's here. I am floored by this honour," she said.
Her emotional speech wasn’t just a tribute to her family, it also revealed her hopes for a more inclusive future in cinema.
"My grandmother came to this country in 1961. I am a proud child of immigrant parents with dreams and dignity and hard-working hands, and I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award. And I know I will not be the last. I hope!
"The fact that I am 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. This is for my grandmother, Argentina Cesse. Thank you so much. Muchas gracias.”
Zoe Saldaña’s historic win was just one of the standout moments of the night.
Anora emerged as the big winner, taking home Best Picture, with Sean Baker also winning Best Director and Mikey Madison earning Best Actress for her powerful performance in the film.
Meanwhile, Kieran Culkin secured his first Oscar, winning Best Supporting Actor for his role in A Real Pain, using his speech to deliver a heartfelt tribute to his wife, and cheekily reminding her of their agreement to have more children if he won.
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