Zoe Saldaña Addresses Criticism of 'Emilia Pérez' After Oscar Win: 'That Was Never Our Intention'

Fresh from her Best Supporting Actress win at the 97th Academy Awards, "Emilia Pérez" star Zoe Saldaña responded to ongoing criticism about the film's portrayal of Mexico during the post-award press conference. When a journalist noted that the film's depiction had been "really hurtful for us Mexicans," Saldaña offered an apology while defending the film's intentions. "First of all, I'm very, very sorry that many Mexicans felt offended. That was never our intention. We spoke from a place of love," Saldaña told reporters backstage. "I don't share your opinion. For me, the heart of this movie was not Mexico. We were making a film about friendship. We were making a film about four women."

The actress elaborated on the film's universal themes: "These women could have been Russian, could have been Dominican, could have been Black from Detroit, could have been from Israel, could have been from Gaza. And these women are still very universal women that are struggling every day, but trying to survive systemic oppression and trying to find the most authentic voices."While standing by the film, Saldaña extended an olive branch to critics. "I will stand by that, but I'm also always open to sit down with all of my Mexican brothers and sisters, with love and respect, [to have] a great conversation on how 'Emilia Pérez' could have been done better. I welcome it."

During her acceptance speech earlier in the evening, Saldaña made history as she highlighted her immigrant roots: "My grandmother came to this country in 1961 — I am a proud child of immigrant parents. With dreams and dignity and hard-working hands, and I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award, and I know I will not be the last. 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."

Despite the controversy surrounding its portrayal of Mexican culture and criticism from both Mexican and LGBTQ+ communities throughout awards season, "Emilia Pérez" entered the Oscars as a leading contender with 13 nominations. The film secured two wins: Saldaña for Supporting Actress and "El Mal" for Original Song. However, the film's 11 losses across other categories tied it with "The Color Purple" and "The Power of the Dog" for the unfortunate record of most Oscar losses by a single film in Academy Awards history.

See more in: https://variety.com/2025/film/news/zoe-saldana-apologizes-mexicans-emilia-perez-1236325779/