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Zoe Saldaña is no stranger to accolades, but this one hits differently. The Hollywood powerhouse just received the Gran Soberano at the 2025 Premios Soberano, the Dominican Republic's most prestigious artistic award, and she made it crystal clear—her heart beats to a Dominican rhythm, no matter where life takes her.
Upon accepting the award, Zoe got emotional, telling the audience: "Although life has physically taken me far away, I have never felt far from here. My heart is and will always be Dominican." She doubled down on that sentiment earlier in the night, telling reporters, "I was raised in a way that represents Dominican culture. I am purely Dominican."
© ACROARTEBorn in New Jersey but deeply connected to her family's homeland, Zoe has always embraced her Dominican roots. Her father, Aridio Saldaña, was Dominican, and after his tragic passing in a car accident when she was just nine years old, Zoe, along with her sisters Cisely and Mariel, moved to the Dominican Republic. Their mother, Asalia Nazario, worked tirelessly in the U.S. to provide for them, while Zoe grew up immersed in Dominican traditions.
© Vivien KillileaHonoring Her Father
During her acceptance speech, Zoe, who was raised by her beloved stepdad, Dagoberto Galán, dedicated the award to her late father: "I dedicate this award with all my love to my dad, Aridio Saldaña. You left too soon, and I would give anything to have you here tonight." She also gave a touching nod to her sisters, who have been her unwavering support system through life's highs and lows.
She also took time to acknowledge Mr. Galán. "To my parents, Azalia and Dagoberto, thank you for being an example, for teaching me with love what honest work, humility, and integrity mean. You are my roots, my refuge, and my foundation."
© ACROARTEZoe also moved her husband, Marco Perego, to tears. "To my husband Marco, the love of my life, thank you for walking beside me and for being my balance, my support, and my peace."
© ACROARTEZoe delivered her acceptance speech in Spanish.
Hollywood Icon, Dominican at Heart
Zoe Saldaña has conquered Hollywood, starring in some of the biggest films of all time: "Avatar," "Guardians of the Galaxy," and "Avengers: Endgame," to name a few. She even picked up multiple awards in 2025 for her performance in "Emilia Pérez," proving yet again that she's a force to be reckoned with.
But no matter how global her career gets, she stays rooted in Dominican culture. From celebrating traditional holidays to instilling those values in her children, she ensures that her heritage remains a central part of her life.
A Well-Deserved Honor
Zoe's influence extends beyond Hollywood. She's been a vocal advocate for the Dominican arts and has expressed interest in supporting local talent. In an interview with journalist Nuria Piera, she revealed her dream of hosting acting workshops in the Dominican Republic: "I would love to! I've always talked about it, and now that I'm getting older, I know I'll have more time."
© ACROARTEAdding to the celebration, President Luis Abinader will honor her in an official ceremony at the National Palace. This marks the second time she has received government recognition. In 2010, she was awarded the Order of Merit of Duarte, Sánchez, and Mella for her contributions to the arts, per local newspaper Lístin Diario.
More Than an Award
For Zoe, the Gran Soberano is not just a trophy; it's a symbol of home, heritage, and everything that makes her who she is. And if there's one thing she made clear in her acceptance speech, it's this: "Long live art, long live family, and long live the Dominican Republic!"
