Zendaya is kicking off this award season on a high note, sharing her gratitude with the person who’s been there from the start, her mom.
The 28-year-old actress was honored with the Gotham Awards’ Spotlight Tribute, a prestigious recognition for her captivating performance in Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers. This award highlights individuals in film and TV who’ve left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
Dressed in a stunning white Louis Vuitton halter-neck dress with an open back, Zendaya took the stage at Cipriani Wall Street, New York, on Dec. 2 to accept the award. During her heartfelt speech, she paused to dedicate the moment to her mother, Claire Stoermer.
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“To my mom—my mom’s here tonight; she’s embarrassed,” Zendaya said with a smile, as she gave a warm shoutout to her mom in the middle of her speech.
Zendaya also used the opportunity to thank everyone who worked with her. "Without all of them, none of this is possible," she shared. “I have to say thank you to my community of filmmakers, producers, wardrobe, costumes, hair, and makeup.”
She expressed how much she values the collaboration that makes her performances possible. “Yes, I get to be up here and do this, but my character is only an amalgamation of the amazing ideas of the creative people around me.”
Zendaya’s role as Tashi Duncan, a tennis player caught in a web of love and rivalry, has been widely praised. The film Challengers, which co-stars Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist, received a nomination for Best Feature at the Gotham Awards. The movie’s bold narrative and standout performances have made waves since its release.
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Zendaya didn’t stop there. She thanked Justin Kuritzkes, the film’s writer, for creating the character of Tashi. “I’m grateful you allowed me to be her,” she said. She also credited director Luca Guadagnino for his vision and the empathy he brought to every character.
“To Luca, for bringing this to life with his visionary eye. The way he understands characters and human emotions is incredible,” Zendaya said.
Gotham Awards and Zendaya’s Journey
The Gotham Awards are known for celebrating independent filmmakers and creators, helping them gain recognition and career opportunities. This year, Challengers stood out among nominees like Anora, Babygirl, A Different Man, and Nickel Boys.
Jeffrey Sharp, executive director of The Gotham Film & Media Institute, praised Zendaya, saying, “Her performances in Dune and Euphoria have cemented her as one of the most captivating actors of her generation.”
Zendaya will return as Rue in Euphoria’s third season and has exciting projects lined up, including working alongside her boyfriend, Tom Holland, in an upcoming Christopher Nolan film.
ALSO READ: Tom Holland Shows Love for Zendaya's Film 'Challengers'
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