The 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards (also known as the SAG Awards) celebrated the pinnacle of talent and artistry in film and television. Held at the historic Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, the evening was a testament to the industry’s resilience and creativity.

Jane Fonda’s Fiery Call to Empathy and Activism

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the SAG Life Achievement Award to the legendary Jane Fonda. At 87, Fonda delivered a powerful speech that resonated deeply with the audience. She reflected on her unconventional career, noting her 15-year retirement and triumphant return to acting at 65. Fonda emphasized actors’ unique role in fostering empathy, stating, “Our job is to understand another human being so profoundly that we can touch their souls.” She passionately defended the concept of being “woke,” asserting, “Woke just means you give a damn about other people.”

Fonda also highlighted the importance of unions in providing community and power. Despite a brief technical glitch during her speech, Fonda maintained her composure, quipping, “I can conjure up voices!” before continuing her heartfelt address. Her call to action was clear: “We must not isolate. We must stay in community. We must help the vulnerable.” Fonda’s words were a poignant reminder of the power of empathy and collective action in turbulent times.

Karla Sofía Gascón: A Controversial Absence

Notably absent from the event was Karla Sofía Gascón, the trailblazing actress who made history as the first openly transgender performer nominated for an acting Oscar. Gascón’s acclaimed role in Emilia Pérez positioned her as a formidable talent in Hollywood. However, the resurfacing of past social media posts containing offensive remarks about various groups, including Muslims, ignited widespread controversy.

Despite issuing public apologies expressing regret for her previous comments, Gascón chose to step back from the public eye during the awards season to allow the film to be appreciated on its own merits — a decision cemented by the fact that Netflix refused to pay for any of Gascón’s promotional appearance costs.

However, according to Vanity Fair, Gascón refused to withdraw from awards ceremonies.

Colin Farrell’s Heartfelt Tribute to His Sisters

In a touching moment, Colin Farrell, awarded Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for The Penguin, dedicated his accolade to his sisters, Catherine and Claudine Farrell. According to Evoke, Catherine, born in 1971, has also pursued a career in acting like her brother. Claudine, meanwhile, has been steadfast in Colin’s professional life, often accompanying him to industry events. Farrell even went so far as to say, “She’s not my assistant!” when referring to Claudine.

Fashion: The Dazzling and the Daring

The SAG Awards red carpet is renowned for showcasing a spectrum of fashion choices, from the sublime to the audacious. This year was no exception:

  • Demi Moore captivated onlookers in a custom Bottega Veneta black leather strapless dress with a flared peplum skirt, exuding a blend of elegance and edge.
  • Ariana Grande embraced a whimsical aesthetic in a custom dusty-pink Loewe gown adorned with floral appliqués reminiscent of a modern-day fairy tale.
  • Keke Palmer paid homage to fashion history by wearing a vintage Chanel black velvet gown from 1985, previously graced by Jamie Lee Curtis. This gown demonstrated that classic designs remain timeless.
  • Timothée Chalamet opted for a bold statement with a neon green shirt paired with a custom black leather suit by Chrome Hearts, showcasing his penchant for pushing fashion boundaries.
  • Jane Fonda radiated sophistication in a coral-colored Giorgio Armani gown, exemplifying grace and style that transcends generations.

While fashion is inherently subjective, these ensembles sparked conversations, with some applauding the daring choices and others questioning the risks taken.

Celebrating Excellence: The SAG Awards Winners

The evening honored outstanding performances across film and television.

Film Categories:

  • Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture: Conclave
  • Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role: Timothée Chalamet, A Complete Unknown
  • Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role: Demi Moore, The Substance
  • Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin, A Real Pain
  • Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldaña, Emilia Pérez

Television Categories:

  • Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series: Shōgun
  • Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Only Murders in the Building
  • Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Colin Farrell, The Penguin
  • Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Gunning, Baby Reindeer

The 2025 SAG Awards not only celebrated artistic excellence but also highlighted the personal stories and challenges those in the industry faced.

Photo Credit: Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

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