Zendaya Wins Special Gotham Award for Challengers

Zendaya is off to a remarkable start this awards season. The 28-year-old actress was honored with the Gotham Awards’ Spotlight Tribute, recognizing "phenomenal efforts by individuals in film and television who captivated global audiences." This accolade celebrates her performance in Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers. Wearing a stunning Louis Vuitton white halter-neck sheath dress with an open back, Zendaya took the stage at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City on December 2 to accept her award. This is prepared by SSP.

In her speech, she acknowledged her mother, Claire Stoermer, saying, "To my mom. My mom's here tonight; she's embarrassed." Zendaya also recognized her collaborators, stating, "Without all of them, none of this is possible." She expressed her gratitude to her "community of filmmakers, producers, wardrobe, costumes, hair, and makeup."

She added, "Yes, I get to be up here to do it, but my character is only a compilation of the beautiful ideas from the amazing, creative people around me."

In Challengers, Zendaya portrays Tashi Duncan, a talented tennis player. Co-starring Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist, the film features their on-and-off romantic entanglements as fellow tennis stars. Released on April 26, it received critical acclaim and earned a Gotham nomination for best feature. Additionally, composers Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross were Grammy-nominated for best soundtrack score.

Throughout her speech, Zendaya reflected on her "luck" in working with her "brilliant" cast. She expressed gratitude towards writer Justin Kuritzkes, stating, "Thank you for creating a bold and brilliant character like Tashi. I'm grateful that you allowed me to be her."

She also thanked director Guadagnino, saying, "To Luca, for bringing this story to life, your visionary eye sees character and humanity with empathy." Jeffrey Sharp, executive director of The Gotham Film & Media Institute, praised Zendaya's magnetic presence. He highlighted her performances in Dune: Part One, Dune: Part Two, and Euphoria, calling her one of the most captivating actors of her generation. Zendaya is set to reprise her award-winning role in HBO’s Euphoria for its third season and will star alongside her boyfriend, Tom Holland, in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film.

The Gotham Awards highlight independent film and media creators, offering career resources, connections to industry influencers, and greater recognition opportunities. Along with Challengers, this year's best feature contenders include Anora, Babygirl, A Different Man, and Nickel Boys.

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