Zoe Saldaña has been officially recognized as the highest-grossing actor in cinematic history after the worldwide success of Avatar: Fire and Ash, which earned $1.23 billion globally. This milestone highlights Saldaña’s remarkable box office impact, with her films having collectively grossed $15.47 billion, surpassing previous record holders such as Scarlett Johansson and Samuel L. Jackson. She is notably the first woman to headline four films that each grossed over $2 billion.
Saldaña’s Reflections on Reaching the Top
In a heartfelt Instagram video, Saldaña expressed deep gratitude for this achievement. She said,
I just want to express my sincerest gratitude for the extraordinary journey that has led me to become the highest-grossing film actor of all time today.
She emphasized that this success was
made possible entirely, entirely by the incredible franchises and the collaborators that I have been fortunate enough to be a part of.
Gratitude Towards Directors and Collaborators
Saldaña acknowledged the important role directors played in her career, naming notable names such as J.J. Abrams, Joe and Anthony Russo, James Gunn, and James Cameron. Addressing Cameron, she remarked,
Thank you for believing in my potential, for seeing something in me that I have not always seen in myself, for challenging me to always rise to the occasion.
These filmmakers contributed significantly to her development as an artist and the trajectory of her career.
Appreciation for Fans and Hopes for Future Achievements
Saldaña also paid tribute to her global supporters, stating,
Your unwavering support, passion, and loyalty are the true foundation of this milestone. None of this exists without you showing up time and time again with open hearts and enthusiasm.
She ended her message with a hopeful sentiment:
This accomplishment belongs to all of us… and may the next record breaker be another woman!
Community Response and Public Recognition
The announcement received widespread acclaim, with over 113,000 likes on her post. Prominent figures including James Gunn, Eva Mendes, Karen Gillan, and Camila McConaughey congratulated Saldaña in the comments. This recognition not only celebrates her personal success but also underscores the significant contributions of women in film.
