The 2025 Golden Globes delivered a night of dazzling performances, groundbreaking moments, and inspiring achievements, with Black excellence shining prominently among the winners. The ceremony, hosted solo by comedian Nikki Glaser—a first for the event—celebrated the finest in film and television from the past year.
Zoe Saldaña Steals the Spotlight
Zoe Saldaña emerged as one of the most celebrated winners of the night, taking home the award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture for her role in Emilia Pérez. The film, which led the nominations with 10 nods, also won Best Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy and Best Original Song. Saldaña’s triumph marked a significant moment, showcasing her incredible talent and the increasing recognition of diverse voices in Hollywood.
Donald Glover and Quinta Brunson Garner Nominations
Black representation was also notable in the television categories. Donald Glover earned a nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Drama for his role in Mr. & Mrs. Smith. Although the award went to Hiroyuki Sanada for Shōgun, Glover’s nomination underscored his enduring influence in the industry. Similarly, Quinta Brunson was recognized for her performance in Abbott Elementary, a nod to her continued success as both a creator and actress in the comedy space.
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Denzel Washington Returns to the Forefront
In the Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture category, Denzel Washington was nominated for his role in Gladiator II. Though the award ultimately went to Kieran Culkin for A Real Pain, Washington’s nomination reinforced his status as a legendary figure in cinema.
Jamie Foxx Shines in Stand-Up
Jamie Foxx received a nomination for Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television for his special What Had Happened Was. While Ali Wong took home the award for Single Lady, Foxx’s recognition highlighted the continued brilliance of Black comedians in shaping the entertainment landscape.
The Question of Diversity
The 2025 Golden Globes celebrated a wide range of talents across cultures and genres. While films like The Brutalist and Emilia Pérez dominated the night, the inclusion of Black talents such as Zoe Saldaña, Donald Glover, Quinta Brunson, Denzel Washington, and Jamie Foxx demonstrated Hollywood’s growing appreciation for diverse narratives.
The evening left audiences inspired, reminding the world of the transformative power of representation and the magic of storytelling that transcends boundaries.
