Zoe Saldaña took home the Best Supporting Actress award at the 30th Critics Choice Awards, held on Friday, February 7, 2025. The ceremony, hosted by Chelsea Handler, was broadcast live on E! from the Barker Hangar in Los Angeles.
A Competitive Category
Saldaña triumphed in a tough competition, winning over fellow nominees:
- Danielle Deadwyler (The Piano Lesson)
- Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (Nickel Boys)
- Ariana Grande (Wicked: Part One)
- Margaret Qualley (The Substance)
- Isabella Rossellini (Conclave)
A Heartfelt and Witty Acceptance Speech
During her speech, Saldaña expressed deep gratitude to her fellow nominees, saying their incredible performances proved how strong this year’s film scene was.
She also took a moment to reflect on critics, playfully addressing the love-hate relationship actors often have with reviews.
“Whenever you receive a negative criticism for a role or a film, everyone says, ‘Don’t read the reviews.’ Then when you get the positive feedback, everyone says, ‘Did you read the reviews?’ But I appreciate the role of a critic. I do sometimes.”
With a touch of humor, she recalled some past critiques she’s received—ranging from being in too many franchise films to her emotional acting style.
“I sometimes read the reviews and I internalize them, especially the really insightful ones, like, ‘Her crying is really distracting. She’s in too many franchises,’ or my personal favorite, ‘She’s too blue.'”
She wrapped up the moment on a gracious note, saying she would listen to her critics “tonight” and accept the award with pride.
A Personal Dedication
Saldaña became visibly emotional when thanking her family, particularly her husband and nephew, whom she credited for shaping her into the person she is today. But her biggest gratitude was reserved for her three sons, calling them her greatest adventure and toughest critics.
She also spoke about the message behind Emilia Pérez, urging audiences to be more curious, open-hearted, and compassionate toward one another.
“You never know when you’ll have the opportunity to be a hero in someone else’s story. Our world is too big and too beautiful to be any other way. So stay curious, stay kind… and stay blue. But not too blue.”
A Strong Year for Emilia Pérez
Saldaña’s win adds to Emilia Pérez’ impressive awards season run. The film was one of the night’s top nominees, earning 10 nominations, just behind Conclave and Wicked, which led with 11 nods each.
With this Critics Choice win, Saldaña solidifies her standing as a major contender for the Oscars, as the race for Best Supporting Actress heats up.