Zoe Saldaña etched her name into Oscar history by clinching the Best Supporting Actress award for her portrayal of Mexican attorney Rita Castro in the film "Emilia Pérez." She stands as the third Latina actress to achieve this milestone in Oscar's storied annals, and notably, the first to secure the honor for a character other than Anita in "West Side Story." Additionally, Saldaña made waves as the first Dominican American to be bestowed with the Best Supporting Actress trophy.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Saldaña proclaimed, "I know I won't be the last." As she ascended the stage, overcome with emotion, her eyes scanned the audience until they found her mother. Through tears, she waved warmly, dedicating her triumph to her grandmother. "My grandmother arrived in this country in 1961," she shared, her voice tinged with pride. "I am a proud offspring of immigrant parents, bred with dreams, dignity, and unyielding work ethic."
Saldaña's voice quivered with emotion as she continued, "Receiving an award for a role that allowed me to sing and speak in Spanish—if my grandmother were here, her heart would swell with joy." The other esteemed nominees in the category included Monica Barbaro for "A Complete Unknown," Ariana Grande for "Wicked," Felicity Jones for "The Brutalist," and Isabella Rossellini for "Conclave."
