Chalamet Upsets at SAG Awards, Awards Season Turns Dramatic

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 23, 2025 — Timothée Chalamet claimed the Screen Actors Guild Award for best actor in a leading role for his performance in “A Complete Unknown,” causing a significant upset over Adrien Brody, who was favored for his role in “The Brutalist.” The awards ceremony took place Sunday at the Shrine Auditorium, an event marked by dramatic performances and notable political statements.

The SAG Awards, traditionally seen as a precursor to the Oscars, showcased Chalamet’s emotional acceptance speech, where he shared his excitement about embodying the legendary Bob Dylan. “The truth is, this was 5 ½ years of my life,” he said. “I poured everything I had into playing this incomparable artist, Mr. Bob Dylan, a true American hero. It was the honor of a lifetime playing him.”

Competition was fierce in various categories, as nominees included well-known actors and emerging talents. Notably, Demi Moore attributed her Golden Globe win to her honest reflection about being typecast as a “popcorn actress.” She continued to gain momentum for her performance in “The Substance.” Moore shared with the audience, “What we believe is so much more powerful than what we think,” indicating a deep conviction in her approach to acting.

Jane Fonda delivered a powerful political statement during the ceremony, referencing current events under the Trump administration. “We are in our documentary moment,” she asserted. “This is it. And it’s not a rehearsal.” Her comments underscored the broader context of the entertainment industry amidst ongoing national issues.

Kieran Culkin continued to shine, winning the award for outstanding performance by a male actor in a supporting role for his role in “A Real Pain.” His acceptance speech humorously noted, “It is funny that the heaviest of all awards is given by actors.”

Another highlight was the best ensemble performance, won by the film “Conclave,” which sparked surprises not only in the nominations but also by coinciding with the critical health condition of Pope Francis, who remained hospitalized as the awards ceremony took place.

Colleen Domingo, who took home the best actor award in the same category, noted the significance of the awards as an opportunity to uplift collective voices in the industry. “At the end of the day, we rise together,” he stated upon receiving his honor.

In the backdrop of the ceremony, members of SAG-AFTRA participated in various initiatives to support those affected by the California wildfires. Host Kristen Bell acknowledged the bravery of firefighters present, calling them “the most attractive tables among a sea of stars.”

As the night progressed, the winners’ list grew varied, with Netflix’s “Emilia Pérez” securing an award for best female supporting actor, awarded to Zoe Saldaña amidst rising discussions about social media’s role in impacting career trajectories.

The SAG Awards once again solidified its reputation as an indication of who might take home the Oscar next month, while the evening was marked by lively exchanges infused with camaraderie and humor.