Jane Fonda, the 87-year-old Hollywood icon, received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, and she used her acceptance speech to stress the importance of activism and community during turbulent political times. Known not only for her remarkable acting career but also for her outspoken political activism, Fonda captivated her audience with compelling reflections on empathy, solidarity, and the role of artists.
Despite facing audio issues and other mishaps typical at such high-profile events, Fonda's message rang clear: encouragement for her fellow actors to remain active and engaged. "It’s okay to be a late bloomer as long as you don’t miss the flower show," she stated, gesturing toward her award, which she affectionately called the "flower show." This phrase highlighted her belief in the continual evolution of purpose and identity, even later in life.
Fonda described her love for acting, noting its power to inspire laughter and provoke thought: "We get to open people's minds to new ideas, take them beyond what they understand of the world, and help 'em laugh when things are tough, like now.” Her lighthearted tone cut through the heaviness of the subject matter, connecting her experiences with the audience through humor.
She went on to deliver heartfelt comments about her beliefs, particularly emphasizing the significance of empathy. "Make no mistake, empathy is not weak or woke, and by the way, woke just means you give a damn about other people," Fonda remarked. Her words prompted reflection on the increasing polarization within society as she urged the actors present to recognize their unique capability to drive emotional connection through their craft.
"Community means power. This is really important right now when workers’ power is being attacked and community is being weakened," Fonda noted, reinforcing her commitment to labor unions like SAG-AFTRA. She eloquently articulated the distinction between actors and more traditional labor forces, positing, "Our product is empathy.” By framing the role of acting through the lens of empathy, Fonda encouraged her peers to embrace the power vested within their performances.
Fonda also drew parallels to historical movements, stating, "Have any of you ever watched documentaries of great social movements?" She continued, "We don’t have to wonder anymore, because we are in our documentary moment. This is it, and it’s not a rehearsal." Her call to action was poignant and compelling, making it clear she sees the need for collective effort against rising adversity.
Echoing the sentiment of unity, she urged her fellow artists to welcome everyone, regardless of political affiliation: "We need to call upon our empathy and not judge, but listen from our hearts, and welcome them to our tent because we are going to need a big tent to resist successfully what’s coming at us." Fonda's message perfectly encapsulated the urgency of collaboration amid division.
With references to her long and storied career, Fonda highlighted the importance of using her platform for social change. "A whole lot of people are going to be really hurt by what is happening, what is coming our way," she cautioned, underlining the gravity of the current political climate. Her emphasis on empathy and compassion served as both guidance and reassurance for those feeling lost within the chaotic social atmosphere.
The night concluded on hope-filled notes, with Fonda inspiring her audience to remain engaged: "There will still be beauty, and there will be an ocean of truth for us to swim in" on the other side. With this concluding thought, Fonda not only accepted her award but also revitalized the spirit of activism within the room.
Jane Fonda’s acceptance speech at the 2025 SAG Awards was more than just an award speech; it became a rallying cry for solidarity, empathy, and resistance during difficult political times. Her ability to intertwine her artistic achievements with her lifelong advocacy for social justice reaffirmed her status as not just an actress but as a significant voice for change.