In her acceptance speech for best supporting actress for her role in “Emilia Pérez,” Zoe Saldaña said she was “floored” by the honor.

“Thank you to the academy for recognizing the quiet heroism and the power in a woman like Rita,” Saldaña said of her character. “And talking about powerful women, my fellow nominees, the love and community that you have offered me is a true gift, and I will pay it forward. Thank you so much.”

Saldaña called “Emilia Pérez” director Jacques Audiard “a beloved character in my life” and said she shared her win with the cast and crew of the film.

Zoe Saldana accepts the award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for “Emilia Perez” onstage during the 97th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Calif., on March 2, 2025.

Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images

“To my mom, my dad and my sisters … everything brave, outrageous and good that I’ve ever done in my life is because of you,” she added, turning attention to her family. “And to my husband … the biggest honor of my life is being your partner. You hung the moon in our beautiful, perfect sons Cy, Bowie and Zen.”

Saldaña ended her speech by dedicating her win to her grandmother.

“My grandmother came to this country in 1961. I am a proud child of immigrant parents with dreams and dignity and hardworking hands, and I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award, and I know I will not be the last,” she concluded. “I hope the fact that I’m getting an award for a role where I got to sing and speak in Spanish, my grandmother, if she were here, she would be so delighted. This is for my grandmother.”