Zoe Saldaña, a powerhouse of talent and a beacon of representation, made history on Sunday by becoming the first Dominican American actress to win an Oscar. She was awarded Best Supporting Actress for her remarkable performance in Emilia Pérez, a film that captivated audiences and critics alike. Amid the glitz and glamor of the Oscars, Saldaña’s heartfelt acceptance speech, in which she honored her immigrant roots and her family, left the audience both teary-eyed and inspired.
From her emotional tribute to her grandmother to the loving words for her husband, Marco Perego, and their three sons, Saldaña’s moment was about more than just the golden statue—it was a celebration of love, legacy, and the power of representation in Hollywood.
A Historic Win and an Emotional Speech
With tears glistening in her eyes, Zoe Saldaña took to the stage to accept her Oscar, a first for a Dominican American actress. The weight of the moment was palpable as she began her speech by honoring her late grandmother, who immigrated to the United States in 1961. “I am a proud child of immigrant parents,” Saldaña declared, her voice thick with emotion. The room erupted in applause, acknowledging not just her talent but the significance of her win for so many communities.
Her role in Emilia Pérez showcased Saldaña’s extraordinary range as an actress, blending raw emotion with powerful storytelling. The film’s success and her Oscar win serve as a testament to her skill and the importance of diverse narratives in Hollywood.
A Love Story Written in the Stars
Saldaña’s speech wasn’t just a tribute to her heritage; it was also a love letter to her husband, Marco Perego, who watched her with adoration from the audience. Perego, an Italian film producer with a distinctive mane of long hair, has been by Saldaña’s side since they met on an airplane in 2013—a chance encounter that quickly blossomed into a whirlwind romance. Within months, the pair were married in a private ceremony, defying the typical Hollywood relationship timeline.
“Thank you to my husband, with that beautiful hair,” Saldaña quipped through her tears, drawing laughter from the audience. “The biggest honor in my life is being your partner. You hung the moon in our beautiful perfect sons, Cy, Bowie, and Zen. They fill our skies every night with stars.”
Their love story is as unconventional as it is heartwarming. In a move that challenged traditional gender norms, Perego adopted Saldaña’s last name, making them both Saldaña-Perego. It was a powerful statement about partnership and equality that resonated with fans worldwide.
Family First: Raising Sons with Love and Legacy
At the heart of Saldaña’s life is her family. She and Perego are proud parents to three sons: twins Cy Aridio and Bowie Ezio, born in 2014, and Zen Anton, born in 2016. Saldaña has often spoken about the joys and challenges of motherhood, emphasizing the importance of raising her sons with a strong sense of identity and cultural heritage.
The couple’s commitment to family is evident not just in their words but also in the symbolic gestures that define their relationship. They each have tattoos of the other’s face—an inked testament to their devotion. In interviews, Saldaña has described her husband as her “soulmate,” crediting him with being a source of support and strength throughout her career.
The Journey to Hollywood’s Elite
Zoe Saldaña’s path to the Oscars was paved with hard work and versatility. Born on June 19, 1978, in Passaic, New Jersey, to a Dominican father and Puerto Rican mother, Saldaña’s multicultural upbringing played a significant role in shaping her worldview and acting style. After her father’s tragic death in a car accident, Saldaña moved to the Dominican Republic with her mother and sisters, where she trained in ballet—a discipline that would later enhance her physical prowess in action-packed roles.
Saldaña’s big break came with Center Stage (2000), but it was her roles in Avatar (2009) and the Guardians of the Galaxy series that propelled her to global stardom. With these blockbuster hits, Saldaña became the only actress to star in three of the five highest-grossing films of all time, a feat that has significantly contributed to her impressive net worth, estimated to be $40 million as of 2025.
Her ability to navigate both indie dramas and billion-dollar franchises has made Saldaña one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars. Yet, despite her success, she remains grounded, attributing her accomplishments to her family’s sacrifices and the support of her husband.
Net Worth and Business Ventures
Beyond her acting career, Saldaña has built an impressive business portfolio. Her production company, Cinestar Pictures, which she co-founded with her sisters, aims to amplify diverse voices in film and television. This venture has not only bolstered her financial standing but also reinforced her commitment to representation in Hollywood.
Saldaña’s endorsement deals with brands like L’Oréal have also contributed significantly to her wealth. Combined with her earnings from acting, her net worth of $40 million reflects both her artistic success and her savvy business decisions.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Saldaña’s impact extends far beyond the screen. She has been an advocate for women’s rights, environmental causes, and education, using her platform to drive meaningful change. In 2018, she partnered with the United Nations Foundation’s Girl Up campaign, working to promote education and healthcare for girls globally.
Her Oscar win not only broke barriers for Dominican American actresses but also underscored the importance of diverse stories in mainstream media. By embracing her roots and sharing her journey, Saldaña continues to inspire a new generation of actors and audiences alike.
Conclusion
Zoe Saldaña’s Oscar win is more than just a personal achievement; it is a milestone for representation in Hollywood. Her journey—from a young girl with big dreams to a history-making Oscar winner—epitomizes resilience, love, and the power of heritage. As she continues to blaze trails on and off the screen, Saldaña’s legacy is sure to shine brightly for years to come.
