Zoe Saldaña won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Rita in Emilia Perez, and her acceptance speech was almost as memorable as her performance in the movie. The Marvel star was moved to tears, and in her emotion, she broke down in a moving way.

There were other acceptance speeches that stood up, including Kieran Culkin’s hilarious bit about his wife’s promise, but Zoe’s speech was by far the most emotional one. Especially after she opened up about everything her family had gone through and everything it took for her to get to where she is.

Zoe Saldaña’s Tearful Acceptance Speech

As she was handed her award, Zoe Saldaña was overcome with emotion and cried out for her mom.

“Mami!” she screamed through very happy tears, holding out her Oscar. Her mom, of course, was there to support her in one of the most important moments of her career.

“My mom is here. My whole family is here. I am floored by this honor,” she revealed.

“Thank you to the Academy for recognizing the quiet heroism and the power in a woman like Rita. And talking about powerful women… my fellow nominees, the love and community that you have offered me is a true gift, and I will pay it forward. Thank you so much.”

Emilia Perez is a project that holds a special place in her heart, and she was grateful to be a part of the movie.

“Jacques Audiard, you are forever a beloved character in my life. Thank you for taking the interest. Thank you for being so curious about these women to tell this story,” she said of her director.

Zoe Shared Her Family History In Her Speech

Zoe Saldaña’s outburst while receiving her award certainly shocked people, but in addition to how important winning an Academy Award is, winning one with her family there, at this particular moment in history, was incredibly meaningful.

Zoe opened up about her life story while giving her speech, and revealed details about her immigrant family that she’s very proud of.

“My grandmother came to this country in 1961. I am a proud child of immigrant parents with dreams and dignity and hard-working hands, and I’m the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award, and I know I will not be the last. I hope!” she stated, earning herself an uproarious cheer.

“The fact that I’m getting an award for a role where I got to sing and speak in Spanish — my grandmother if she were here would be so delighted. This is for my grandmother!”

Zoe’s family couldn’t be prouder of her, there’s no doubt about that, and hopefully, as she said, many other children of immigrants will follow on her footsteps.