In a historic moment at the 2024 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards in Los Angeles, Lily Gladstone, renowned for her role in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon,’ secured the prestigious title of Best Female Actor in a Leading Role. The announcement was made by People, confirming her victory in a competitive category that included notable nominees such as Annette Bening for ‘Nyad,’ Carey Mulligan for ‘Maestro,’ Margot Robbie for ‘Barbie,’ and Emma Stone for ‘Poor Things.’
Gladstone’s groundbreaking win marked her as the first Indigenous actor to claim victory in the leading role category, a remarkable achievement in the realm of cinema. The talented actress, known for portraying Mollie Burkhart in Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers of the Flower Moon,’ addressed the audience with gratitude in her acceptance speech.
Expressing her appreciation for the art of storytelling, Gladstone acknowledged the challenges of the past year and the resilience demonstrated by fellow actors. She emphasized the importance of using the platform to bring stories to life and promote visibility, urging everyone to continue speaking their truths.
Gladstone’s success in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ was described as a breakthrough performance, particularly in her role as Osage lady Mollie Kyle, the wife of Ernest Burkhart, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio. The film delves into the Osage killings orchestrated by criminal boss William Hale, played by Robert De Niro.
This triumph follows Gladstone’s earlier recognition at the Golden Globes, where she became the first Native American woman to win, delivering her acceptance speech in the Blackfoot language. The actress has also received a Critics Choice Award nomination and is notably the first Native American nominee for Best Actress at the Oscars, marking a significant milestone in her career.
‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ was a contender in three SAG categories, with Robert De Niro nominated for Supporting Actor and the ensemble cast competing for Outstanding Performance by a Cast. The film’s narrative unfolds the gripping tale of the Osage killings, shedding light on a dark chapter in history. As Gladstone continues to make waves in the industry, her achievements solidify her status as a trailblazer and a prominent figure in Native American representation in cinema.
