On Sunday, February 23, Hollywood’s brightest stars gathered for the 31st annual Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards. Hosted by Kristen Bell, the event was streamed live on Netflix, offering viewers a front-row seat. The evening was filled with unforgettable moments, from playful interactions to moments of chemistry, both on and off-screen. Let’s dive into the standout winners and exciting moments from the night.
Selena Gomez’s Ensemble Win
One of the most notable moments at the SAG Awards was the win for Only Murders in the Building. This series took home the award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series. This recognition not only highlights the individual talents of Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, and Martin Short but also emphasizes the exceptional chemistry and collaboration that have made the show a fan favorite.
During the ceremony, Selena Gomez accepted the award alongside her co-stars, including Richard Kind and Michael Creighton. With her signature wit, Gomez playfully addressed the absence of Martin and Short, joking that their no-show was because “they don’t really care.” The humorous remark lightened the mood and underscored the deep camaraderie that defines the Only Murders cast. She expressed gratitude to her fellow actors, acknowledging their mentorship and the collective effort that contributed to the show’s dynamic.
Only Murders in the Building has captivated viewers with its clever narrative. The award-winning show is about three New Yorkers united by their passion for true-crime podcasts. The series has been praised for its stellar ensemble, intricate storytelling, and perfect blend of humor and suspense. The genuine affection and respect between the cast members shine both on-screen and off. This camaraderie is a key factor in the show’s ongoing success.
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater’s Interaction
One buzz-worthy moment of the evening was the brief but sweet exchange between Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater. The two actors who star together in the newly released Wicked movie shared a charming interaction during the ceremony. Their undeniable chemistry, both on and off-screen, has fueled excitement not only about their performances in the film but also about their evolving relationship.
The buzz surrounding Grande and Slater has been hard to ignore. The couple’s connection has become the subject of media speculation. Over the past several months, fans have been treated to glimpses of their growing bond. From soft launches to public displays of affection during the awards season. Their relationship has sparked interest, with many fans eagerly following their every move both on and off the red carpet.
Who is Ethan Slater?
For those unfamiliar with Slater, he’s an actor and singer. He is best known for his Tony-nominated role as SpongeBob in SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical. Now, he’s starring alongside Grande in the Wicked movie adaptation, which has already been released in theaters. The two play iconic roles, with Grande portraying Glinda and Slater as Boq. The sequel to Wicked, scheduled for release on November 21, 2025, will also feature Grande and Slater in their respective roles, and fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter of this legendary story.
While their professional chemistry has fans buzzing, the pair’s personal lives have also been the subject of intense media attention, particularly following Ethan Slater’s split from his wife, Lily Jay, in 2023. The public nature of their breakup, coupled with the timing of Slater’s reported romance with Grande, sparked significant controversy. Many tabloids and fans scrutinized the situation, with some criticizing the actor for leaving his wife while she was reportedly pregnant. Both Slater and Grande have kept their personal lives private, but their relationship has been the subject of widespread speculation.
Honorable Mentions: Major Winners Across Film and TV
The SAG Awards aren’t just about the speeches and moments, the evening also celebrated some of the best acting performances in both film and television. Here are a few of the winners from the night:
Film Categories
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role: Timothée Chalamet won for his performance in A Complete Unknown.
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role: Demi Moore was awarded for her performance in The Substance.
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin won for his role in A Real Pain.
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Zoë Saldaña was awarded for her portrayal in Emilia Pérez
TV Categories
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series: Hiroyuki Sanada took home the award for his performance in Shōgun.
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series: Anna Sawai’s portrayal in Shōgun also won her the award.
- Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Martin Short was honored for his comedic genius in Only Murders in the Building.
- Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart won for her performance in Hacks.
Final Thoughts
The 31st Annual SAG Awards was a true celebration of talent and the artistry behind some of the year’s most memorable on-screen performances. From Selena Gomez’s lighthearted moments on stage to the buzz surrounding Ariana Grande’s evolving relationship, the evening was filled with unforgettable highlights. The SAG Awards remain an essential platform for recognizing the performances that shape the films and television shows we love, and this year was no exception. As Hollywood continues to evolve, the event served as a powerful reminder of the vital role actors play in telling diverse stories and how their hard work and passion continue to inspire and connect audiences around the world.
