Zoe Saldaña has created indelible film roles throughout her career. middle stage in 2000. One of the most iconic? Green skinned Gamora from the Marvel series guardians of the galaxy. (Next: TV series Female lion, executive produced and starring Nicole Kidman.) However, Saldaña, now 44, would like to talk about other iconic roles played by some of her heroes, and specifically four cinematic characters that have shaped her life and career. (And even his style.)
“Who isn’t obsessed with Billie Holiday?” Saldaña tells PEOPLE her 1972 biography Miss Sings Blues this marked Diana Ross’ debut on the big screen. “I remember reading Diana’s story and how hard she worked for that role. And when you see the movie, your heart breaks for Billie.” Saldaña says he’ll “always turn into a character,” but his off-duty mode means “jeans, button-ups, sneakers.” I’ll be 45 this year, so sneakers are the new heels. used to come here, but I’m finally comfortable with that.”
When it comes to his beret, Saldaña admits he’s “not from his generation” from the movie. Bonnie and ClydeStarring Faye Dunaway. “But when I saw the movie when I was younger, I was totally fascinated with a woman of her caliber like Bonnie and [the character] I have no choice and I do so much for love.”
The actress credits her mother for instilling the importance of “not getting any BS from men or life and making our own choices”. Her life today with her 44-year-old husband, Marco, is much more of a team effort. “My husband is a very encouraging person. He supports you. He supports you. He encourages you. He is very sincere and honest,” she says. “We tend to be each other’s coaches.”
It’s clear that Rita Moreno is more than Anita. West Side Story to Saldaña. “O EGOT, THE GOAT. He’s a Latino who paved such a beautiful path for so many artists of Latin American heritage,” says Saldaña, a Dominican and Puerto Rican. He intends to let his own children, twins Cy and Bowie, 8 and Zen, 6 find their way, too. “I don’t want kids to be afraid of disappointing us as the reason why they don’t do something,” she explains. “I want them to wonder about themselves and think about their happiness first. And I want them to know that what matters is what you think and how you see yourself.”
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From Star warsFrom Uhura to Neytiri avatar Franchise, Saldaña has proven to be one of Hollywood’s most trusted stars. But Uma Thurman’s character in the 1994 cult classic pulp Fiction hits really close to home. “[She] Was Saldaña this artist who wanted to achieve that and kept talking about all the auditions? This reminds me of my early years trying to get into Hollywood.