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Did Zoe Saldaña just redefine acceptance speeches? During the 2025 BAFTAs, the talented actress made headlines not only for her impressive win but also for her unexpected and candid speech. Saldaña took home the award for Best Supporting Actress for her remarkable performance in Emilia Perez.
As she rushed to the stage to accept her award from presenters Colman Domingo and Adam Pearson, the excitement of the moment took over. With the clock ticking down, Zoe's nerves got the best of her, leading to an expletive-laden moment that perfectly showcased her authentic personality. "Oh my God, I’m getting a countdown. F–k, f–k, f–k," she exclaimed, adding a touch of humor and relatability to the situation.
Her acceptance speech began on a heartfelt note, as she humorously acknowledged her children's advice to keep her emotions in check. "I was told not to cry by my children, so I’ll try," she said. The Avatar star expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to partake in a project she described as a "creative challenge of a lifetime." She thanked her fellow cast members and crew, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in the film industry.
One of the standout moments of her speech was her dedication of the award to her nephew, Eli, who serves as her inspiration. "He is the reason — they are the reason — I signed up to do this film in the first place," Zoe declared. This touching tribute not only highlighted the personal significance of her win but also her commitment to advocating for the trans community, stating, “So as the proud aunt of a trans life, I will always stand with my community of trans people.”
Saldaña’s emotional and honest approach to her acceptance speech resonated with many, especially when compared to her earlier Golden Globe win for the same role. Back then, she had shared a genuine moment of gratitude, stating, "I don’t have much time, and I have dyslexia, so I tend to forget when I’m really anxious and I’m filled with adrenaline, but my heart is full of gratitude.” Her ability to express both vulnerability and gratitude continues to endear her to fans and audiences alike.
Fashion-wise, Zoe did not disappoint at the BAFTAs either. She wore a stunning Saint Laurent strapless black gown adorned with delicate mesh detailing along the neckline. Her accessory choices included a magnificent diamond necklace and rings that added an extra touch of glamour to her appearance.
Throughout the awards season, Zoe Saldaña has garnered admiration for her performances and her ability to connect with the audience through her speeches. Her authenticity in these high-pressure situations serves as a reminder that it’s normal to be human, even when standing in front of a room full of peers and fans.
As the season progresses, many are eager to see what other memorable moments Zoe will bring to the stage. Her fearless approach, both in her roles and her public appearances, continues to make waves in the entertainment industry.
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