Zoe Saldaña, fresh off her Golden Globe win for her performance in “Emilia Perez,” expressed profound gratitude for the filmmakers who have championed her throughout her 25-year career. In the press room following the ceremony, she revealed a congratulatory message from James Cameron, director of the “Avatar” franchise. Currently in New Zealand editing “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” Cameron’s continued belief in Saldaña, even after all these years, deeply resonated with her, fueling her artistic ambition.
Cameron’s admiration for Saldaña is well-documented. In an October *Variety* cover story interview, he lauded her talent, stating, “I’ve worked with Academy Award-winning actors, and there’s nothing that Zoe’s doing that’s of a caliber less than that.” He highlighted her remarkable range, describing her ability to shift seamlessly from regal to “utterly feral” as “ferocious,” comparing her to “a freaking lioness.” This praise is particularly significant given Cameron’s acknowledgement that her performance in his films, while exceptional, often gets overlooked due to the “CG character” aspect.
Saldaña’s career has been marked by consistent box office success, starring in three of the highest-grossing films of all time: “Avatar” (2009), “Avengers: Endgame” (2019), and “Avatar: The Way of Water” (2022). However, her Golden Globe win signifies a new level of critical acclaim and awards recognition, a milestone she cherishes deeply.
Overwhelmed with joy, Saldaña reflected on her journey: “I’ve been in this industry for 25 years… I’ve always been employed. I’ve always had good human beings, amazing, undeniably talented filmmakers who believe in me and bet on me and trust me consistently. This recognition is paramount for my continuation as an artist.” She candidly admitted considering retirement a couple of years ago, contemplating a life of gardening. However, her artistic passion ultimately prevailed, reaffirming her commitment to creation.
Saldaña concluded by expressing her indebtedness to director Jacques Audiard, highlighting his faith in her abilities and the transformative impact of his belief in her potential. This Golden Globe, she emphasized, is a testament to the collaborative spirit and unwavering support that have defined her remarkable career.