Four Wins and Unmatched Glory
At the heart of the night was Emilia Pérez, a bold and groundbreaking musical that captivated audiences with its poignant tale of a drug lord’s gender-affirming journey. The film claimed four awards, including Best Musical or Comedy, and cemented itself as a beacon of cinematic innovation. Zoe Saldaña’s heartfelt performance as an idealistic lawyer earned her the Best Supporting Actress accolade. Fighting back tears, Saldaña, who attended with her mother, shared, “This night is for all those who dare to dream beyond boundaries.”
“The Light Always Wins”
One of the most stirring moments of the evening came from Karla Sofia Gascón, the first trans actress ever nominated for a Golden Globe. While accepting Emilia Pérez’s award, Gascón delivered a powerful message:
“The light always wins over darkness. You can jail us, beat us, but you cannot take away our soul, our resistance, or our dignity. Raise your voice. I am who I am; know who you are.”
Victory to Immigrant Dreams
Adrien Brody’s portrayal of a Holocaust survivor-turned-architect in The Brutalist earned him the Best Actor in a Drama award. Brody’s emotional speech paid tribute to his mother and immigrant ancestors:
“This work stands to lift you up and give you a voice. I see my mother’s journey reflected in this character’s resilience, and I hope this film inspires hope and understanding.”
Director Brady Corbet also triumphed, winning Best Director for his labor of love, a three-hour epic exploring the post-war immigrant experience.
“Shōgun” and “Hacks” Dominate
FX and Hulu’s Shōgun emerged as a major winner with four awards, including Best TV Drama. Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai were lauded for their powerful performances, bringing feudal Japan’s complexities to life.
In the comedy realm, Hacks continued its streak, with Jean Smart earning Best Actress for her portrayal of a stand-up legend navigating her second act. Jeremy Allen White, absent on the night, was honored as Best Actor for his role in The Bear.
Demi Moore and Colin Farrell Deliver Emotional Wins
Demi Moore’s win for The Substance marked a triumphant comeback. The 62-year-old actress reflected on her decades-long career, recounting how she once believed awards were out of reach for her:
“This script came to me at a low point, and the universe told me I wasn’t done. This is for all who feel unseen and unheard—your story matters.”
Colin Farrell charmed the audience as he accepted Best Actor in a Limited Series for The Penguin, humorously crediting “Carolina from craft services” for keeping him hydrated under heavy prosthetics.
Nikki Glaser’s Razor-Sharp Hosting
Comedian Nikki Glaser brought her signature wit to the night, balancing humor with Hollywood commentary. From poking fun at celebrities’ Ozempic use to addressing Donald Trump’s re-election, her quips kept the audience entertained.
The ceremony, held at the Beverly Hilton, was not without its iconic looseness—champagne flowed freely, heartfelt speeches mixed with unfiltered humor, and family ties took center stage. Stars like Zoe Saldaña, Ariana Grande, and Adrien Brody shared the spotlight with their loved ones, adding warmth to the glamorous evening.
