While accepting the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress, Zoe Saldaña dedicated the award to the person who inspired her to take on the role—her trans nephew. After not getting the opportunity to share the dedication on stage, Saldaña told journalists in the winners’ room that there was “one last thing that I didn’t get to say on stage,” Variety reported. “I’m dedicating all of these awards and the film Emilia Pérez to my nephew, Eli. He is the reason — they are the reason — I signed up to do this film in the first place,” she told them. “So as the proud aunt of a trans life, I will always stand with my community of trans people.” Emilia Pérez sees Saldaña play Rita Mora Castro, a lawyer who helps a Mexican cartel leader receive gender-affirming surgery. The actress has received several accolades for the role, including a Golden Globe, Critics Choice Award, and now, her first BAFTA. She may add an Oscar to that list, as she is nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the upcoming...
