The 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards have concluded, highlighting the triumphs of the past year in film and television. The ceremony, which took place on February 23, 2025, at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles, attracted significant attention as it was livestreamed exclusively on Netflix.
This year’s awards featured strong contenders from popular series and films, with some of the most recognized works including FX’s Shōgun and the film A Complete Unknown. The event was hosted by Kristen Bell, who herself was nominated for her role in Nobody Wants This. The night was filled with excitement as actors awaited the announcement of winners, with many famous names like Timothée Chalamet, Demi Moore, and Jane Fonda making headlines.
Among the standout winners was Shōgun, which took home the award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series. The show's stars, Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai, also claimed awards for Best Drama Actor and Actress, respectively. Sanada's dynamic performance was instrumental, as he captivated audiences and critics alike, making his win feel well-deserved.
The awards didn't stop at drama; they also shone brightly on comedy. Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building won for Best Ensemble in this category, with Martin Short recognized for his outstanding performance as well. The show’s mix of humor and mystery has proven popular among viewers, and its recognition at the SAG Awards reflects its standing within the industry.
Demi Moore's win as Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role for her role in The Substance marked another highlight of the evening. Moore’s portrayal has been lauded, and her emotional depth brought to the character was acknowledged with this prestigious nod.
Other notable winners included Timothée Chalamet, awarded Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for A Complete Unknown. His performance has been described as one of emotional nuance and complexity, solidifying his reputation as one of Hollywood’s leading young talents. Meanwhile, Zoe Saldaña's performance as Rita in Emilia Pérez earned her Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in Supporting Role.
The SAG Awards also honored excellence beyond just performances. This year, Jane Fonda was presented with the Life Achievement Award, recognizing her immense contributions to the arts across her extensive career. Fonda, known for both her acting chops and activism, accepted the honor with grace, reaffirming her commitment to positive social change.
The evening wasn’t just about individual performances but also featured stunning ensemble casts. The award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Motion Picture went to Conclave, which showcased the collaborative spirit of filmmaking. Such recognition for ensemble casts highlights the integral role teamwork plays in creating compelling cinema.
Among the winners was Hacks, with Jean Smart taking home the award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in Comedy Series. Smart's impressive range continues to draw applause, proving she’s a formidable talent within the industry. The atmosphere at the event was filled with camaraderie as fellow actors celebrated each other's successes.
This year's ceremony represented the diversity of storytelling seen across the entertainment sector. From performances reflecting historical narratives, such as Shōgun, to contemporary comedies like Abbott Elementary and The Bear, the awards showcased the breadth of talent present. The recognition of such various works speaks to the shifting dynamics of what captures audiences' attention.
Behind the glamour and joy of winning, the SAG Awards remind viewers and participants of the resilience and creativity required to produce captivating entertainment. The varied themes and performances celebrated reflect the changing face of Hollywood, where stories are continually being redefined to include new voices and perspectives.
With the lights dimming on the 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards, the industry looks forward to yet another year of innovative stories and impactful performances. Fans left buzzing about the winners and what to expect from these talented individuals moving forward, demonstrating the enduring allure of these awards.
The full list of winners included:
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role: Timothée Chalamet, A Complete Unknown — WINNER
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role: Demi Moore, The Substance — WINNER
- Outstanding Performance by Male Actor and Actress for Drama: Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai, Shōgun — WINNERS
- Outstanding Performance by Male and Female Actor for Comedy: Martin Short and Jean Smart, Only Murders in the Building and Hacks — WINNERS
- Outstanding Performance by Ensemble: Shōgun and Only Murders in the Building — WINNERS for Drama and Comedy respectively