Penélope Cruz dazzled on the red carpet at the 2025 Academy Awards, cementing her status as one of the event's most anticipated stars. The Spanish actress embraced elegance as she arrived wearing a sumptuous white silk chiffon gown custom-made by Chanel, which featured exquisite details including jeweled buttons arranged along its ruched bodice. The outfit, which took over 250 hours to craft, was inspired by Chanel's Haute Couture Spring-Summer 1992 collection, showcasing both the brand's timeless allure and Cruz's personal style.
This year’s Oscars, held on March 3, marks Cruz's return to the prestigious event as she took on the role of presenter, bringing her charisma and grace to the stage alongside other luminaries, including Scarlett Johansson and Halle Berry. The two actresses shared a heartwarming reunion at the event, joyfully embracing one another, reflective of their shared history from their collaborative project, Vicky Cristina Barcelona. Their camaraderie was palpable as Cruz approached Johansson with warmth, tapping her shoulder before they engaged in lively conversation, reminiscing about their days on set.
Penélope Cruz's involvement with the Oscars is not confined to her role as presenter; it also signifies her deep-rooted connection to the film industry. Known for her captivating portrayal of Maria Elena in Vicky Cristina Barcelona, Cruz won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2009. Reflecting on her career during her acceptance speech, she touched on memories from her childhood, stating, "I grew up in a place called Alcobendas, where this was not a very realistic dream. And I—always the night of the Academy Awards I stay up to watch the show. And I always felt this ceremony was a moment of unity for the world, because art... is and has been... our universal language, and we should do everything we can to protect its survival."
Cruz has also forged significant personal ties through her acting career, particularly with her husband, Javier Bardem. Their romance blossomed during the filming of Vicky Cristina Barcelona, and they've since built a beautiful family together. Bardem has often spoken about Cruz's irresistible allure, noting her "feistiness" and "love for everything," characteristics he finds incredibly attractive. The couple, married since 2010, now shares two children, Leo and Luna.
For the grand occasion, Cruz's look was completed with stunning Chanel jewelry including starburst gold and diamond earrings, along with a dazzling 5.52 carat yellow diamond ring. The gown’s design was particularly noteworthy for its ethereal qualities, as the halterneck cut flowed down to reveal an airy skirt and long train, radiantly capturing the essence of Hollywood glamour.
This year's Oscar ceremony was hosted by popular former late-night host Conan O'Brien, who brought his unique humor and charm to the stage for the first time. After his appointment was announced, O'Brien light-heartedly remarked, "I only agreed to host so I could get invited," charming the audience right from the start. His presence added to the lively atmosphere of the evening, which was filled with anticipation from some of the film industry’s top talents.
At the center of the spotlight, Cruz's fashion choice stood out, effectively intertwining nostalgia and modern sensibility. With many actresses donning similar tones of white and blush, her choice proved to be both timely and classic, cementing her status as one of the night’s best-dressed. Fans and critics alike took to social media to express admiration for her bridal-inspired attire, which highlighted both precision of design and the artistry of Chanel’s haute couture.
The Academy Awards not only celebrate cinematic talents but also serve as an annual reminder of the industry’s rich narratives, encapsulated through its presenters and nominees. Cruz's return as not just a nominee but as part of the presenting lineup—with notable figures such as Emma Stone, Robert Downey Jr., and Samuel L. Jackson also sharing the stage—confirmed her strong standing within the cinematic community.
This year, the nominations included significant contenders like Emilia Pérez, which leads the pack with 13 nods, and other films such as The Brutalist and Wicked, each competing for the prestigious Best Picture title. The night’s excitement was palpable as performers from nominated films, including Cruz, graced the stage not only to present awards but to celebrate the artistry of their craft among peers.
Penélope Cruz's remarkable presence at the 2025 Academy Awards was not merely about her stunning appearance but symbolized the coming together of artists celebrated for their creativity and contributions to film and culture. The event serves as both recognition and inspiration, where celebrated actresses like Cruz remind the world of the power of storytelling through cinema—and the transformative nature of dreams realized under the bright lights of the Oscar stage.