Zoe Saldaña Triumphs at Critics' Choice Awards with 'Emilia Pérez'
In a resounding victory, Zoe Saldaña has solidified her status as a frontrunner for Oscar glory by capturing the Best Supporting Actress honor at the 2025 Critics' Choice Awards for her riveting performance in Netflix's "Emilia Pérez."
As Rita Mora Castro, Saldaña portrays an embattled lawyer who embarks on a transformative journey by aiding a drug lord in his pursuit of gender reassignment surgery.
During her acceptance speech, Saldaña playfully acknowledged her "Avatar" franchise involvement, noting, "My personal favorite, she's too blue."
"To think that 'Emilia Pérez,' the little movie that could, has resonated with so many people has been an experience worth having," said Saldaña, expressing gratitude to director Jacques Audiard for his unwavering belief in her.
Overcoming a recent controversy involving lead actor Karla Sofia Gascon, "Emilia Pérez" has garnered a staggering 13 Oscar nominations, including one for Gascon as Best Actress. Saldaña has denounced Gascon's offensive tweets, emphasizing her unwavering commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
With this latest triumph, Saldaña has previously secured Best Supporting Actress accolades at the Golden Globes and Critics' Choice Awards. Her Oscar journey continues at the BAFTAs and Screen Actors Guild Awards in the lead-up to the prestigious Academy Awards in March.