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In a landmark moment at the 98th Academy Awards held in Los Angeles, Ryan Coogler took home the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for his film “Sinners.” This achievement places him among the elite, as he becomes only the second Black writer to win in this category. The first was Jordan Peele, who earned the accolade in 2018 for his groundbreaking film “Get Out.”
During his heartfelt acceptance speech, Coogler expressed deep gratitude to those who played a pivotal role in the creation of “Sinners.” He began by acknowledging the support from Warner Bros. and his collaborators, singling out Michael Irving and others who contributed to the film’s success.
“I want to thank everybody that was involved with this movie, starting with Warner Bros., Michael Irving, everybody’s here somewhere,” Coogler remarked, his appreciation evident as he looked out over the crowd. His words resonated with many in attendance, underscoring the collaborative effort required to bring a vision to the big screen.
During his acceptance speech, the filmmaker began by thanking the many people who helped bring the film to life.
“I want to thank everybody that was involved with this movie, starting with Warner Bros., Michael Irving, everybody’s here somewhere,” he said.
Coogler then asked members of the cast and crew in the audience to stand.
“Everybody on my cast and crew, please stand up. You guys are amazing. You guys are amazing. You are the winners in my book.”
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He also took time to recognize his wife, producer Zinzi Coogler, during the speech.
“You are the best wife and mom in the world. Every day I get to experience was better than the one that came before it,” he said.
His parents were also present for the ceremony, and Coogler made sure to acknowledge them as well.
“Thank y’all for all the memories. Thank y’all for making me believe in myself,” he said.
The director closed his remarks with a message to his children watching from home.
“And to my babies that are at home watching, I apologize for all the time away. Dad loves you. Memories are all we have. I hope I’ve given you some great ones.
“And when you’re blessed to live a long life and dad becomes just a memory, I want y’all to remember this one thing. I love you all more than anything.”
Ryan Coogler and his wife, producer Zinzi Coogler, married in 2016 and share three children together. The couple generally keeps their family life private. Their first child was born around 2019, and their third arrived in late 2025.