Zoe Saldaña and the Importance of Media Training
Regardless of who you are or how much you’ve achieved, everyone needs consistent media training. Actress Zoe Saldaña’s recent interaction with a journalist is a case study on why how we engage with the public and the media matters.
After her Oscar win for “Best Supporting Actress” on March 2, 2025, Saldaña ignited controversy over her engagement with a journalist. During a Q&A session, Saldaña appeared dismissive of reporter Cristina Ibañez’ question about the depiction of Mexico in “Emilia Pérez.” The film has been controversial, and Saldaña’s response brought fresh criticism of herself and the project.
Controversies
“Emilia Pérez” received criticism from many communities. Some view the depiction of its setting in Mexico to be stereotypical and uninformed. Some perceive the depiction of transgender women to be a step backwards for queer representation.
At the Oscars, Ibañez asked Saldaña about the topic at the heart of the film, describing it as “really hurtful to us Mexicans.” This presumably referred to the depiction of Mexican cartel violence, used as the background and motivation for Emilia. The character starts as a cartel leader who, over the course of the movie, leaves and uses her connections to find the bodies of cartel victims. Saldaña responded that she was sorry that “you and so many Mexicans felt offended…” but that “…we came from a place of love and I will stand by that.” She also denied that this setting was at the heart of the film.
What to Do
When a person is angry, the best thing to do is to acknowledge their feelings, express genuine empathy and be curious about a mutually agreeable solution. If you deny or diminish a person’s feelings, you are inviting backlash from the individual as well as the broader community.
Additionally, it costs nothing to treat all people, including journalists, with respect. Reporters play a vital role in shaping public perception, and we should strive to maintain positive relationships with them. Saldaña didn’t address the reporter’s core question. Her response was likely off-putting, even to her fans.
Sensitivity Training
Saldaña’s response also displayed an apparent lack of sensitivity. People interpret films differently, but Saldaña’s answer seemed to disregard valid concerns from those of Mexican descent. She could be perceived as disrespectful or lacking in authenticity.
This is not the first time Saldaña has come under fire for a lack of sensitivity. In the 2016 film “Nina”, Saldaña darkened her skin and wore a prosthetic nose to play the activist and famed musician Nina Simone. Following allegations of blackface, she initially defended herself against critics and Simone’s estate before apologizing in 2020.
This reminds us that, in addition to media training, celebrities and persons with large platforms should undergo sensitivity training. This will help ensure leaders are abreast of the impact of their words and actions on varying communities.
Social Media is Media, Too
Don’t forget that your presence on social media is part of your public image. More and more people are getting news from social media, and you should be intentional with your online presence.
Karla Sofía Gascón, who played Emilia, came under fire after several of her Tweets from 2020 and 2021 resurfaced. Gascón, who is Spanish, posted comments that have been widely perceived as racist and Islamophobic. She has since released multiple statements with varying success.
These situations are a reminder no one – regardless of the size of their platform – can maintain a thriving image through insensitivity and gaslighting. Landing big roles won’t be enough to maintain your career if you are constantly facing criticism for what you say and do.
Sophia Shannon is a media relations associate for Spotlight PR LLC. Be sure to check out our other blogs and subscribe for regular communications updates.