We can always count on the Academy Awards to bring some historic moments our way, and this year’s ceremony was no exception. Several stars made history with their Oscar wins this year, from the Anora director Sean Baker to the Emilia Pérez actress Zoe Saldaña, but what makes their victories so unique?
Sean Baker
Sean Baker made quite a splash with his screwball comedy Anora, which was crowned as the biggest winner of the night with five Oscars. Four of these awards went to Baker himself—best picture, best director, best original screenplay, and best editing—making him the first person in the Academy Awards history to win four Oscars for a single film.
Adrien Brody
Adrien Brody became the first person to win two best actor Oscars in his first two nominations with The Brutalist. He also holds the record for the youngest man to win best actor for his performance in The Pianist.
Zoe Saldaña
Zoe Saldaña’s best supporting actress win for her role in the crime musical Emilia Pérez was also a historic first. She honored her roots in her emotional acceptance speech after becoming the first American of Dominican origin to win in this category, adding “I know I will not be the last.”
Brazil’s Best International Feature Win
After scoring five nominations for the best international feature, Brazil finally came out victorious in this category with the political thriller I’m Still Here.
Paul Tazewell
It was a night to remember for the Wicked costume designer Paul Tazewell, who made history as the first Black man to win an Oscar for costume design.