PASSAIC’S OWN ZOE SALDAÑA MAKES HISTORY AS THE FIRST DOMINICAN TO WIN AN OSCAR!

Zoe Saldaña's journey to her historic Oscar win is a testament to her resilience, talent, and deep connection to her roots. Born on June 19, 1978, in Passaic, New Jersey, to a Dominican father and Puerto Rican mother, Saldaña's early life was shaped by a rich blend of cultures. After the tragic loss of her father in a car accident when she was nine, her family relocated to the Dominican Republic, where she immersed herself in dance at the ECOS Espacio de Danza Academy. This passion for performance laid the foundation for her future acting career.

Returning to New York at 17, Saldaña joined youth theater groups, leading to her film debut as a ballet student in "Center Stage" (2000). She gained prominence with roles in major franchises like "Star Trek," "Avatar," and "Guardians of the Galaxy," showcasing her versatility across genres. 

In 2025, Saldaña's portrayal of Mexican lawyer Rita Castro in Jacques Audiard's "Emilia Pérez" earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first actor of Dominican heritage to win an Oscar.

In her heartfelt acceptance speech, she honored her immigrant parents, stating, "Soy la orgullosa hija de inmigrantes," emphasizing the significance of her heritage in her journey. Saldaña's achievement is a milestone for representation in Hollywood, inspiring many by breaking barriers and highlighting the importance of diverse stories in cinema.

For a glimpse of her emotional acceptance speech, you can watch the following video: 

 

 

 

 

 

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