Zoe Saldaña achieved a significant milestone in her career by winning her first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film “Emilia Pérez.” In a recent interview, Saldaña shared a unique perspective on her trophy, describing it as “trans” and stating that her Oscar uses “they/them” pronouns.
In “Emilia Pérez,” Saldaña portrays Rita, a lawyer who assists a cartel leader during a personal transformation. During her heartfelt acceptance speech, she expressed gratitude to the Academy for honoring the strong women depicted in the film. She acknowledged the importance of the story’s representation, highlighting her pride as the first American of Dominican descent to win this award.
Saldaña’s comments reflect a broader trend in Hollywood, where acceptance and representation of diverse identities are becoming increasingly prominent. Notably, Jamie Lee Curtis, who won an Oscar in 2023, also mentioned her award’s pronouns in solidarity with her daughter, Ruby, who identifies as non-binary.
This celebration of diversity in the film industry is encouraging, as artists like Saldaña and Curtis use their platforms to foster understanding and acceptance within society. Saldaña’s win, alongside her poignant dedication to her family, particularly her grandmother, inspires hope and reflects the evolving narrative both in cinema and cultural discussions around gender identity.
The significance of such wins cannot be understated, as they pave the way for future generations to see themselves represented on screen, igniting a more inclusive and accepting environment within the entertainment industry.