Zoe Saldana Dedicates BAFTA Award to Trans Nephew: "I Will Always Stand with My Community of Trans People"
After clinching the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Emilia Pérez," Zoe Saldana paid tribute to her trans nephew and the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting the film's impact on fostering inclusivity.
Saldana, known for her portrayal in the "Avatar" franchise, played Rita Mora Castro in "Emilia Pérez," an attorney aiding a Mexican cartel leader in obtaining gender-affirming surgery. Her victory marks her inaugural BAFTA triumph and Oscar nomination in the same category.
Emphasizing the transformative power of storytelling, Saldana expressed, "I dedicate these awards and the film 'Emilia Pérez' to my nephew, Eli. He inspired me to take on this role, and as a proud aunt of a trans life, I will stand with the trans community."
Despite being absent from the ceremony due to past controversies, Saldana's co-star Karla Sofía Gascón was recognized in her acceptance speech. The film, which garnered 11 BAFTA nominations including Best Film, reverberated with critics and viewers alike.
Saldana's victory in a competitive field, which included Ariana Grande, Felicity Jones, and Jamie Lee Curtis, underscores her unwavering commitment to representing diverse voices and promoting empathy through her craft.