Tonight’s much-anticipated 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards promises to provide the final pivotal clues leading up to this year’s Oscar race. With the other significant award ceremonies, including the BAFTAs, Producers Guild Awards, Directors Guild Awards, and Golden Globes, already wrapped up, all eyes are on the SAG Awards. Given the actors' majority voting power within the film academy, their choices are often closely aligned with the eventual Academy Award winners.
The SAG Awards are set to air on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. EST / 5:00 p.m. PST. Following the success of last year's event, which was the inaugural show streamed exclusively on Netflix, this year’s ceremony will also utilize the popular streaming platform. For those without subscriptions, Netflix plans start at $6.99 monthly, with options for ad-free viewing at $15.49.
Set against the glamorous backdrop of the Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall, the evening will be hosted by none other than Kristen Bell, marking her return to the role. Bell previously hosted the show back in 2018, showcasing her growing presence within the industry as she is also nominated this year for her performance in Nobody Wants This. Joining her will be high-profile presenters, including Selena Gomez, Zoe Saldaña, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who will hand out the SAG Life Achievement Award to the legendary Jane Fonda.
This year’s nominees feature compelling performances from standout films like Wicked, which leads with multiple nominations, including Outstanding Acting Ensemble, Outstanding Female Actor in a Leading Role for Cynthia Erivo, and Outstanding Female Actor in Supporting Role for Ariana Grande. Other major contenders include A Complete Unknown, Anora, and Conclave, each boasting their share of nominations.
The spotlight shines brightly on the leading actor categories as well, where Adrien Brody for The Brutalist is up against formidable challengers like Timothée Chalamet for A Complete Unknown and Ralph Fiennes for Conclave. Fans are buzzing with excitement over the potential nail-biting suspense surrounding the outcome of the top awards. Likewise, the race for Best Actress pits some fierce talent against each other, with nominees including Demi Moore and Mikey Madison, with Erivo also vying for the title.
Adding to the excitement, viewers can expect iconic moments and surprises as the industry’s elite celebrates one another. The SAG Awards stand out as the only ceremony dedicated solely to actors, embodying the camaraderie of Hollywood. Nominations across categories confirm recognition for not just the big screen, but also outstanding performances on TV, where series like The Bear and Abbott Elementary excelled with numerous nods.
While the SAG Awards lean toward social and entertaining tones, it remains serious business for those involved as they often influence Oscar predictions. Approximately 1.8 million viewers tuned in last year, on par with traditional broadcasts when the ceremony aired on cable networks. This year, with the lifting of pandemic restrictions, audiences are eager to engage and witness the camaraderie, dazzling fashion statements, and emotional acceptance speeches.
Prior to the awards, the SAG organization expressed concern for its members affected by the devastating wildfires earlier this year, leading to the cancellation of the traditional nominations announcement. The guild is actively working on disaster relief initiatives aimed at helping those impacted. The show aims to honor those affected and acknowledges the importance of community support.
How will Wicked fare this evening? Will the ensemble team take home the coveted award, or will another film steal the spotlight? With expectations running high, the stage is set for memorable acceptance speeches, stunning fashion moments, and well-deserved recognition of remarkable talent. The world of Hollywood is primed for another exciting showdown as everyone tunes in to see who walks away winners at the 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards!