Zoe Saldaña makes history with first Oscar win for Emilia Pérez

Los Angeles.- Dominican-born actress Zoe Saldaña made history this Sunday by winning her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her performance as lawyer Rita Mora Castro in the narco-musical Emilia Pérez.

Saldaña’s victory at the Academy Awards capped off a remarkable awards season in which she also won a Golden Globe in January, a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress, and recognition from the Hollywood Actors Guild (SAG Awards) as well as the Critics Choice Awards. Her role in Emilia Pérez has been widely praised for its depth and intensity, cementing her place as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and accomplished performers.

During her emotional acceptance speech, Saldaña expressed deep gratitude to her family, her heritage, and the creative team behind Emilia Pérez. She proudly highlighted her heritage, stating, “I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award, and I know I will not be the last.”

Saldaña is no stranger to box office success, as she remains the only actress to have starred in four films that have grossed more than $2 billion worldwide: Avatar (2009), Avatar: The Way of Water (2022), Avengers: Endgame (2019), and Avengers: Infinity War (2018). With this Oscar win, she solidifies her legacy not only as a global box-office star but also as an acclaimed dramatic actress.