The 31st Annual Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, held on February 23, 2025, at Los Angeles’ Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, delivered an evening filled with unexpected victories and memorable moments. Hosted by Kristen Bell, the ceremony honored outstanding performances in film and television, setting the stage for the upcoming Academy Awards.
Film Categories: Unexpected Triumphs
In a surprising turn, Timothée Chalamet secured the award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in “A Complete Unknown.” This win was particularly noteworthy as Adrien Brody had been the season’s frontrunner. Chalamet’s nuanced performance captivated both audiences and critics, solidifying his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors.
Demi Moore was honored with the Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role for her work in “The Substance.” Her compelling portrayal garnered widespread acclaim, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career.
The ensemble cast of “Conclave,” a thriller centered around a papal election, received the award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. Accepting the honor, Ralph Fiennes emphasized the importance of community and collaboration in filmmaking.
Television Categories: Dominance of “Shōgun”
The historical drama series “Shōgun” emerged as a dominant force in the television categories, securing four awards, including Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series. Individual accolades were awarded to Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai for their exceptional performances.
In the comedy realm, “Only Murders in the Building” was recognized as the Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series. Martin Short received the award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series, while Selena Gomez, visibly moved, accepted the ensemble’s award on behalf of the cast.
Lifetime Achievement: Jane Fonda’s Inspiring Message
Jane Fonda was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating her decades-long contributions to the industry. In her acceptance speech, Fonda addressed the current political climate, urging her peers to embrace empathy and courage in their craft and daily lives.
Red Carpet Highlights and Memorable Moments
The evening was not only about awards but also about fashion and memorable interactions. The red carpet showcased a blend of classic elegance and bold statements, with celebrities donning outfits that reflected their personal styles. Inside the venue, host Kristen Bell delivered a humorous and heartfelt opening monologue, setting a warm tone for the evening. A standout moment included a comedic skit featuring Bell, Jason Segel, and Torrance Coombs, recreating a scene from “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” which elicited laughter and applause from the audience.
Looking Ahead: Implications for the Oscars
The outcomes of the SAG Awards often serve as indicators for the Academy Awards. With unexpected wins by Timothée Chalamet and “Conclave,” industry insiders are revising their predictions for the Oscars. As the awards season progresses, these victories may influence voting patterns and generate buzz around the honored films and performances.
Complete List of Major Winners
Film Categories:
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role: Timothée Chalamet, “A Complete Unknown”
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role: Demi Moore, “The Substance”
- Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture: “Conclave”
Television Categories:
- Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series: “Shōgun”
- Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series: “Only Murders in the Building”
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series: Hiroyuki Sanada, “Shōgun”
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series: Anna Sawai, “Shōgun”
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Martin Short, “Only Murders in the Building”
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart, “Hacks”
The 2025 SAG Awards celebrated the artistry and dedication of actors across the industry, highlighting both emerging talents and seasoned veterans. As Hollywood looks forward to the Oscars, the night’s surprises have added excitement and anticipation to the awards season.
