Zoe Saldaña On Emilia Pérez: "My Oscar Is Trans And Goes By They/Them"

James

3 min read

Post on Jun 15, 2025

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Zoe Saldaña's Powerful Statement: "My Oscar is Trans and Goes by They/Them"

Zoe Saldaña, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Pirates of the Caribbean, recently made headlines with a powerful statement about her Academy Award, playfully personifying it as a transgender individual. In an interview with Emilia Pérez, a rising star in the Latinx entertainment scene, Saldaña declared, "My Oscar is trans and goes by they/them." This seemingly lighthearted comment carries a significant weight, sparking conversations about representation, gender identity, and the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood.

This isn't just a quirky anecdote; it's a carefully crafted statement reflecting Saldaña's commitment to inclusivity and social justice. By using this playful metaphor, she subtly but effectively highlights the often-overlooked experiences of transgender individuals within the entertainment industry and beyond. The fact that she chose to share this with Emilia Pérez, a Latina LGBTQ+ actress, further amplifies the message of intersectionality and solidarity.

The Significance of Saldaña's Words

Saldaña's statement is important for several reasons:

• Raising Awareness: The casual yet impactful way she presented this statement effectively brings attention to the transgender community and their experiences. Many might not initially realize the depth of her message, but it plants a seed for further discussion and learning.
• Promoting Inclusivity: By personifying her Oscar as transgender, Saldaña subtly challenges traditional norms and promotes the idea that all identities, including transgender identities, deserve respect and recognition.
• Challenging Gender Norms: The playful use of pronouns ("they/them") normalizes the use of gender-neutral pronouns, contributing to a more inclusive linguistic landscape.
• Showcasing Allyship: Saldaña's statement serves as a powerful display of allyship, demonstrating her support for the transgender community in a public and memorable way.

Emilia Pérez: A Rising Star Championing Inclusivity

The choice of Emilia Pérez as the recipient of this statement is not arbitrary. Pérez herself is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and representation within the Latinx community. Her work champions diversity and inclusivity, making her a fitting platform for Saldaña's message. This interview highlights the power of intergenerational and intersectional allyship within the entertainment industry.

The Broader Conversation on Representation in Hollywood

Saldaña's statement joins a growing chorus of voices demanding better representation and inclusivity in Hollywood. The industry has faced increasing scrutiny for its lack of diversity and its often-exclusionary practices. This conversation extends beyond gender identity, encompassing race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and ability.

Moving Forward: Saldaña's comment encourages further reflection on how we perceive and represent identities within the media. We must continue to strive for greater inclusion and accurately portray the multifaceted experiences of all individuals. This includes not only casting diverse actors but also creating narratives that authentically reflect their lived experiences. Learn more about LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood by reading .

Call to Action: Let's amplify voices like Zoe Saldaña's and Emilia Pérez's. Share this article and continue the conversation about representation and inclusivity in the entertainment industry and beyond. What steps can we take to ensure a more equitable and representative future? Share your thoughts in the comments below.