The 31st Annual Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards took center stage on February 23, 2025, at the iconic Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. As one of the most prestigious honors in Hollywood, the SAG Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in film and television. This year’s ceremony was especially notable as it was streamed live on Netflix, marking a new chapter in award show broadcasting.
Kristen Bell Returns as Host
Kristen Bell returned to host the ceremony, her first time since 2018. Bell’s charisma and humor lit up the evening, keeping the audience entertained and setting a lively tone for the event. Her return was welcomed by fans and industry professionals alike, as she guided viewers through an unforgettable night of accolades and performances.
Jane Fonda Honored with SAG Life Achievement Award
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the SAG Life Achievement Award to the legendary Jane Fonda. Recognized for her remarkable career and humanitarian contributions, Fonda received the award from Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who praised her impact on the entertainment industry and her unwavering commitment to social causes.
Film Category Highlights
The film categories featured fierce competition, with some of the industry’s most talented performers taking home top honors:
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role: Timothée Chalamet for A Complete Unknown, where he portrayed music icon Bob Dylan. Chalamet’s performance received critical acclaim for capturing Dylan’s complexity and spirit.
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role: Pamela Anderson for The Last Showgirl. Anderson’s transformative role was praised for its depth and authenticity.
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Jonathan Bailey for Wicked. Bailey’s portrayal was celebrated for adding nuance and emotion to the beloved story.
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Ariana Grande for Wicked. Grande’s stellar performance showcased her versatility as a performer, earning her a well-deserved win.
- Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture: Wicked. The ensemble’s chemistry and powerful performances made Wicked the standout winner of the evening.
Television Category Highlights
The television categories were dominated by stellar performances, with Shōgun and Hacks earning top honors:
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series: Hiroyuki Sanada for Shōgun. Sanada’s compelling performance brought depth to his character, earning widespread praise.
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series: Anna Sawai for Shōgun. Sawai’s emotionally resonant portrayal contributed significantly to the series’ success.
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Adam Brody for Nobody Wants This. Brody’s comedic timing and charm made him a favorite among audiences.
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart for Hacks. Smart continued to impress with her sharp wit and impeccable delivery.
- Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series: Shōgun. The series’ ensemble cast brought the historical drama to life with powerful performances.
- Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Hacks. The ensemble’s chemistry and comedic brilliance made Hacks a standout in the comedy category.
Star-Studded Presenters and Memorable Moments
The evening featured a dazzling lineup of presenters, including Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Edward Norton, and Timothée Chalamet. Their presence added to the event’s glamour and excitement.
One of the most memorable moments was Jane Fonda’s acceptance speech, where she reflected on her career, activism, and the importance of storytelling in shaping society. Her words resonated deeply, reminding audiences of the power of performance in inspiring change.
Notable Trends and Takeaways
This year’s SAG Awards highlighted several key trends in the entertainment industry:
- Streaming Dominance: With Netflix streaming the event live, the awards signaled a shift in how major industry events are delivered to global audiences.
- Representation and Diversity: Winners and nominees reflected greater diversity in storytelling and casting, showcasing voices from different backgrounds and cultures.
- Musical Adaptations: Wicked’s success underscored the popularity of musical adaptations, both in film and television.
The SAG Awards 2025 was a celebration of talent, diversity, and storytelling. With standout performances from Wicked and Shōgun, and memorable moments like Jane Fonda’s tribute, the ceremony left an indelible mark on the awards season. As Hollywood continues to evolve, the SAG Awards remain a testament to the power of performance and the enduring magic of film and television.