The 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards showcased Hollywood's top talent as they prepare for next month’s Oscars, with memorable performances, speeches, and standout fashion moments dominating the evening.
Among the night's significant winners was the film Conclave, which secured the prestigious Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. The ensemble includes renowned actors such as Ralph Fiennes, Isabella Rossellini, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow. Their win brought subdued applause from the audience, with many surprised by the result, especially as other films like Anora and The Brutalist had also been strong contenders throughout the awards season.
Earlier, the cast of Conclave, which portrays the delicate process of electing a new pope, extended their wishes for Pope Francis's swift recovery from health issues, adding emotional weight to their victory. The night was buzzing with speculation over who might take home the Oscar for Best Picture, following such unpredictable outcomes during the awards season.
Actress Jane Fonda, honored with the life achievement award, used her platform to advocate for workers' rights, asserting, "Make no mistake: Empathy is not weak or woke. And, by the way, woke just means you give a damn about other people." Her passionate speech was met with resounding applause, as she called attention to the importance of unions.
Kristen Bell brought levity to the proceedings with her effervescent parody of the classic Frozen song titled "Do You Want to Become An Actor?" Her tongue-in-cheek performance humorously depicted the less glamorous early roles of fellow actors like Kieran Culkin and Jason Segel.
Kieran Culkin, who had recently swept several major awards this season, took to the stage not only to claim his award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role but also to express his genuine surprise at winning. “Believe it or not this actually means a lot to me,” he admitted, showcasing his characteristic charm.
Timothée Chalamet earned the biggest acting honor of the night for his role in A Complete Unknown. Despite strong competition from Adrien Brody, who had previously triumphed at the Golden Globes and BAFT Awards, Chalamet expressed disbelief at his win. “The truth is, this was five and a half years of my life. I poured everything I had,” he acknowledged, expressing aspirations to join the ranks of legendary actors.
Demi Moore also enjoyed recognition, taking home the award for her performance in The Substance. Her poignant speech reflected on her early career and the significance of her SAG card, which she received at 15. “It gave me meaning, it gave me purpose, and it gave me direction,” Moore shared, moving many audience members.
Meanwhile, Only Murders in the Building won the award for Best Ensemble for the comedy series. Selena Gomez brought humor to her acceptance speech, light-heartedly remarking, "Wait, we never win!" Even more, she joked about missing co-stars Steve Martin and Martin Short, both of whom had health-related absences from the event.
Fashion took center stage, with actors displaying their best red carpet looks. Timothée Chalamet made headlines again with his custom Chrome Hearts cowboy suit, complemented by a Cartier bolo tie. Alongside him, others such as Jeremy Strong and Colman Domingo brought flair and sophistication to their attire, showcasing the evening's blend of artistry and elegance.
The awards produced plenty of delightful moments and reunions, including throws back to classic shows like The X-Files with David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson presenting together. The camaraderie was palpable as Keke Palmer and Colman Domingo toasted the vast roster of actors from the esteemed Law & Order universe.
With the SAG Awards completing its run, anticipation builds for the Oscars as the film elites navigate this unpredictable awards season. This year's ceremony, with its mix of heartfelt moments, comedic interludes, and stylish appearances, set the stage for what promises to be another captivating awards horizon.