Timothée Chalamet made history on the evening of February 23, 2025, at the 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards (SAG Awards) held at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. The 29-year-old actor was awarded the coveted Best Actor trophy for his role as young Bob Dylan in the biopic Un parfait inconnu, defying expectations and overcoming tough competition.
Chalamet's win was particularly surprising as many had anticipated Adrien Brody to take home the honor for his acclaimed performance as László Tóth in The Brutalist. The French-American star's victory signifies not only his impressive talent but also marks him as the youngest actor ever to win this award, surpassing Nicolas Cage, who clinched it at age 32 for his role in Leaving Las Vegas back in 1996.
While accepting the award, Chalamet delivered an emotional and ambitious speech, expressing his aspirations within the cinematic world. “I know we’re in a field of subjectivity, but the truth is, I want to become great,” he stated, referencing iconic actors such as Daniel Day-Lewis, Viola Davis, and Marlon Brando as his sources of inspiration. He added, “I want to be among the pantheon of greats. I have devoted five and a half years of my life to this role—every ounce of me has gone onto the screen.” His words seemed to resonate deeply, showcasing his dedication and passion for acting.
The SAG Awards 2025 also revealed the strong possibility of Chalamet becoming a leading contender for the upcoming Oscars, scheduled for March 2, 2025. His win at the SAGs could dramatically shift the momentum of the awards season, especially with Brody previously dominating other ceremonies like the Golden Globes and BAFTA. The stakes are high, and both actors are seen as formidable contenders.
Timothée Chalamet’s performance as Dylan captures the essence of the legendary artist during his formative years as he navigated the New York folk scene of the 1960s. Directed by James Mangold, the film juxtaposes the highs and lows of Dylan's early career, giving Chalamet the perfect platform to shine. Viewers and critics alike have praised his portrayal, which adds weight to this significant SAG win.
The actor not only impressed with his stirring performance but also drew attention for his eye-catching fashion choices at the awards ceremony. He stepped onto the red carpet donning a vibrant green silk shirt, deftly inspired by the iconic styles of Bob Dylan himself. Alongside this bold shirt, Chalamet wore a bespoke black leather ensemble from Chrome Hearts, complemented by cowboy boots and adding a Western flair with a bolo tie. His distinctive style undoubtedly set him apart from the crowd, becoming one of the evening's fashionable highlights.
Chalamet's attire has been part of larger promotional strategies for his film, with stylist Taylor McNeill incorporating elements reminiscent of Dylan’s rock aesthetic throughout the marketing campaign. This has included various outfits echoing the music legend's unique style, ensuring holistic representation of the artist both on and off-screen.
Alongside Chalamet's personal achievements, the SAG Awards also celebrated other notable winners. The evening saw Demi Moore honored for her leading role in the horror film The Substance, and the thriller Conclave won the top prize for Best Ensemble, indicative of its strong performances and casting.
Despite all the attention surrounding Chalamet, he chose to share this special moment with his mother, Nicole Flender, who was present to witness her son’s triumph. The duo shared moments of joy and celebration, reinforcing the familial bonds amid the evening’s glitz. Their interactions showcased the genuine affection and pride shared between them, adding emotional depth to the event.
The SAG Awards have long been considered indicative of upcoming Oscar winners, with many past winners solidifying their status as frontrunners. Chalamet’s win places him firmly on the radar as Hollywood gears up for its biggest night. Will Chalamet manage to carry this momentum forward and secure the Oscar? The question looms as excitement builds for the Academy Awards.
With films like Un parfait inconnu leading discussions around biographical storytelling and its resurgence, Timothée Chalamet's performance holds significant relevance within contemporary cinema. His win not only elevates his career but also reinforces the enduring fascination with biographical narratives.
Whether or not he wins the Oscar, Timothée Chalamet's career is undeniably on the rise, and his SAG Award is just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary chapter in his acting saga.