Zoe Saldaña Responds to Becoming the Highest-Grossing Movie Star
Zoe Saldaña just hit a milestone that puts her in a league of her own, and she’s taking a moment to reflect on how she got there. Following the massive global success of Avatar: Fire and Ash, the actress has officially become the highest-grossing film actor of all time, and she’s clearly aware that this achievement didn’t happen in a vacuum.
After the film’s theatrical run pushed her career box office total to jaw-dropping heights, Saldaña took to Instagram with a video message addressing the moment. In it, she confirmed the news herself and framed the record as a shared victory rather than a personal one.
She said, “I just want to express my sincerest gratitude for the extraordinary journey that has led me to become the highest-grossing film actor of all time today.”
She quickly redirected the spotlight, adding that it was “made possible entirely, entirely by the incredible franchises and the collaborators that I have been fortunate enough to be a part of.”
With Avatar: Fire and Ash pulling in $1.23 billion worldwide, Saldaña moved past Scarlett Johansson and Samuel L. Jackson on the all-time box office list.
According to The Numbers, her films have now grossed a combined $15.47 billion globally. This makes her the first woman to appear in four separate films that each crossed the $2 billion mark, a streak powered by franchises that have defined modern blockbuster cinema.
In her message, Saldaña made sure to call out the filmmakers who helped shape her career. She thanked J.J. Abrams, Joe and Anthony Russo, James Gunn, and James Cameron, singling out Cameron with a deeply personal note.
She said to him, “Thank you for believing in my potential, for seeing something in me that I have not always seen in myself, for challenging me to always rise to the occasion.”
It’s clear those collaborations weren’t just career moves, but creative partnerships that pushed her forward as an artist.
She also turned her attention to the fans who’ve shown up for her films year after year. Saldaña acknowledged their role, saying, “Your unwavering support, passion, and loyalty are the true foundation of this milestone. None of this exists without you showing up time and time again with open hearts and enthusiasm.”
She wrapped up the message with a forward-looking statement that landed hard. “This accomplishment belongs to all of us… and may the next record breaker be another woman!”
Filmmakers and fellow actors like James Gunn, Eva Mendes, Karen Gillan, and Camila McConaughey were among those celebrating her achievement.
With Avatar: Fire and Ash still fresh in theaters and more projects on the horizon, Saldaña’s box office reign may not be done climbing yet. What stands out most is how grounded her response feels.