Zoe Saldaña Says James Cameron Messaged Her After Golden Globes Win: He ‘Believes In Me’
Zoe Saldaña has made history as the first American of Dominican descent to win an Academy Award. The acclaimed actress, best known for her role as Neytiri in James Cameron’s Avatar franchise, received widespread praise for her heartfelt Oscars acceptance speech. Cameron, the legendary director behind Avatar, expressed his joy at her win, calling her a “world-class performer” and highlighting her contributions to Hollywood.
This article dives into Saldaña’s historic win, her emotional Oscars speech, and Cameron’s unwavering support for her career.
Zoe Saldaña’s Historic Oscar Win
Zoe Saldaña’s Oscar win marks a significant milestone in Hollywood. During her acceptance speech, she proudly identified herself as the “proud child of immigrant parents” and dedicated the award to her grandmother.
“I know I will not be the last. I hope,” Saldaña said, emphasizing the importance of representation for immigrant families in the U.S. and the entertainment industry.
Her win also highlights her versatility as an actress, as she was honored for a role that required her to sing and speak in Spanish.
James Cameron’s Heartfelt Reaction
James Cameron, who directed Saldaña in Avatar (2009) and Avatar: The Way of Water (2022), couldn’t contain his excitement over her victory. In an interview with Variety, he shared:
“I was so happy to see Zoe acknowledged as the world-class performer we, in the Avatar family, have always known her to be. Her acceptance speech was a noble reminder of what immigrant families bring to the U.S. and to Hollywood.”
Cameron has long been one of Saldaña’s biggest supporters. After her Golden Globe win earlier this year, she revealed that Cameron was among the first to congratulate her.
Cameron’s Praise for Saldaña’s Talent
Cameron has consistently praised Saldaña’s acting prowess, particularly her portrayal of Neytiri in the Avatar series. In a 2022 Variety cover story, he stated:
“I’ve worked with Academy Award-winning actors, and there’s nothing that Zoe’s doing that’s of a caliber less than that. She can go from regal to, in two nanoseconds, utterly feral. The woman is ferocious. She is a freaking lioness.”
Despite her character being CGI-driven, Cameron believes her performance deserves the same recognition as live-action roles.
What’s Next for Zoe Saldaña and James Cameron?
Saldaña’s Oscar win comes as she prepares to reprise her role as Neytiri in Avatar: Fire and Ash, the third installment of the Avatar franchise. The film, currently in post-production, is set to release on December 18, 2024.
Cameron, who is busy editing the film in New Zealand, remains a steadfast advocate for Saldaña’s talent. Her recent accolades have only strengthened their professional bond and mutual respect.
Key Takeaways from Zoe Saldaña’s Oscar Win
- Historic Achievement: Saldaña is the first American of Dominican descent to win an Academy Award.
- Immigrant Representation: Her speech highlighted the contributions of immigrant families to Hollywood and the U.S.
- James Cameron’s Support: The Avatar director has been a vocal supporter of Saldaña’s career.
- Upcoming Projects: Fans can look forward to seeing Saldaña in Avatar: Fire and Ash, releasing in late 2024.
Why This Matters
Zoe Saldaña’s Oscar win is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a celebration of diversity and representation in Hollywood. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors from immigrant backgrounds, proving that talent and perseverance can break barriers.
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