By Lillian Dolph
The 31st annual Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards took place on Feb. 23, featuring stunning looks and surprising upsets.
Until recently, I wasn’t even sure what the SAG awards were, nor did I know the difference between any of the award shows in general. So, for those who don’t know, the SAG Awards are the only televised awards ceremony that exclusively honors actors, as the Oscars and Emmys recognize producers and people behind the scenes. Each year, it presents 13 awards, the winners of which are voted on by over 130,000 SAG-AFTRA members and performers, the largest voting body in the awards circuit. Since its debut in 1995, the award show has become a favorite, especially in the industry.Â
The SAG Awards are widely known as an Oscar preview, with most picks often aligning with the film academy. The last three best ensemble winners—“Oppenheimer,” “Everything Everywhere All at Once” and “CODA”—all went on to win best picture at the Oscars. Additionally, all but one winning SAG actor won an Oscar in the past three years.Â
Many people may know of SAG-AFTRA from the strikes in 2023. against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) over a labor dispute. SAG-AFTRA represents over 160,000 people: actors, announcers, broadcast journalists, dancers, DJs, news writers, news editors, program hosts, puppeteers, recording artists, singers, stunt performers, voiceover artists and other professionals. These members work together to gain better protections for people in the media. These include fair wages and residuals, health and pension benefits, safe working conditions, digital protections, protection from exploitation, and diversity and inclusion.
Now, let’s talk about the winners.Â
Going into the awards, there was a lot of anticipation surrounding Sean Baker’s “Anora,” which had won previously at awards shows already. In a surprising turn, the Best Actor award went to TimothĂ©e Chalamet for A Complete Unknown, edging out Adrien Brody, who was favored for his performance in The Brutalist. Chalamet’s victory strengthens his chances of securing his first Academy Award.Â
The awards show was hosted by Kristen Bell, who brought her signature charm and wit to the stage. At one point, she reprised her iconic Gossip Girl role in a playful skit, adding a nostalgic touch to the night.
The guild’s Life Achievement award was given to Jane Fonda, both an actor and activist, who gave a passionate speech about America’s current political climate.Â
“Woke just means you give a damn about other people,” Fonda said. “A whole lot of people are going to be hurt by what’s happening, by what’s coming our way. We are going to need a big tent to resist what’s coming at us.”
Another notable moment from the night were the “I Am an Actor” stories.Â
Each year, the SAG Awards open with its famous “I Am an Actor” segment. The tradition began by opening with a distinguished actor speaking to the audience about their work or an anecdote about their life. For the first eight years, the show opened with a single actor, but for the 9th annual SAG Awards, the tradition changed to include more actors, telling shorter stories to allow actors of different ages and backgrounds to share their stories.Â
Since then, 80 actors have been able to tell their stories and close with the line “I am an Actor.” This year’s actors included Mikey Madison, Boen Yang, Jessica Williams, and Jodie Foster. For a video of the speeches, click here!
Let’s not forget, the 2024 SAG Awards saw a stunning display of fashion, with celebrities turning heads in elegant and sophisticated looks.
Keke Palmer embraced a more vintage glamour in archival Chanel. The design was very classic couture and timeless.
Leighton Meester dazzled in Elie Saab, known for his intricate detailing and romantic silhouettes. Her look was elegant with a modern twist.
Quinta Brunson opted for Dior, bringing a touch of classic sophistication. The structured yet feminine design perfectly complemented her signature style.
Zoe Saldaña stunned in custom Saint Laurent, embracing sleek, minimalist beauty with an edge.
Mikey Madison made a bold statement in Louis Vuitton, mixing modern minimalism and vintage touches.
Selena Gomez turned heads in Celine, looking very elegant with a refined presence.
Each of these stars brought their unique fashion flair to the red carpet, making the SAG Awards a true celebration of style and individuality.