At the 97th Academy Awards, Zoe Saldaña delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech upon winning Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Emilia Pérez.” She began by expressing gratitude to the Academy for recognizing the “quiet heroism” portrayed in her character, Rita. Saldaña acknowledged her family’s unwavering support, noting, “My mom is here. My whole family’s here. I am floored by this honor.”
Emphasizing her heritage, Saldaña shared, “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.” She dedicated the award to her late grandmother, Argentina Cesse, expressing how delighted she would have been, especially since Saldaña’s role allowed her to sing and speak in Spanish.
Saldaña also paid tribute to her husband, Marco Perego, affectionately mentioning his “beautiful hair,” and their three sons who “fill our skies every night with stars.”
