Zoe Saldana
Zoe Saldaña
Zoë Yadira Saldaña-Perego, known professionally as Zoe Saldaña, is an acclaimed American actress born on June 19, 1978, in Passaic, New Jersey. She has become a prominent figure in Hollywood due to her roles in several highly successful film franchises.
Early Life
Saldaña was raised in the New York City borough of Queens. Her father, Aridio Saldaña, was Dominican, while her mother, Asalia Nazario, is of mixed Dominican and Puerto Rican descent. Saldaña has often identified herself as three-quarters Dominican and one-quarter Puerto Rican.
Acting Career
Zoe Saldaña's versatility as an actress is evidenced by her involvement in some of the highest-grossing films in history. She has appeared in four of the top 10 highest-grossing films of all time, contributing to a cumulative box office gross exceeding $15 billion worldwide. This achievement has made her the highest-grossing actor globally. Her prominent roles include:
Avatar Franchise
Saldaña plays Neytiri, a key character in James Cameron's Avatar series. Her portrayal as the Na'vi princess has been central to the film's themes of environmentalism and cultural interconnectedness. The Avatar series has been a monumental success, with the film Avatar: The Way of Water continuing the epic saga.
Marvel Cinematic Universe
In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Saldaña is known for her role as Gamora in the Guardians of the Galaxy series. Her character has become a fan favorite, contributing to the success of the Avengers films and the broader Marvel narrative.
Other Notable Works
Saldaña has also starred in films like Colombiana, showing her ability to lead in action-packed narratives. Her diverse roles in films such as Elio and her involvement in television projects like Lioness showcase her wide-ranging talent.
Personal Life
In 2013, Zoe Saldaña began dating Italian artist Marco Perego, and they married in London three months later. In a progressive move, Perego adopted her surname, and they both became known as Saldaña-Perego. The couple has been a subject of interest due to their unique take on marital naming conventions.
Awards and Recognition
Zoe Saldaña's contributions to film have earned her various accolades. Her extensive list of awards and nominations highlights her impact on the film industry and her status as a pioneering figure for Latina actresses in mainstream cinema.