The Miami premiere of “Avatar: Fire and Ash” unfolded as more than a movie screening, it felt like a moment of reflection. With warm air, electric energy, and a crowd eager for Pandora’s next chapter, Zoe Saldaña arrived on the red carpet embraced by a city celebrating a Latina whose historic Oscar win earlier this year still carries weight.
After a career-defining year, the actress spoke to ¡HOLA! about gratitude, family, and why she remains focused on what lies ahead. As the year draws to a close, Saldaña stands not only as an award-winning actress, but as a mother, a role model, and an artist embracing new chapters with intention and grace.
© Getty Images for 20th Century St“I want to continue doing what I love, which is art."
“Avatar: Fire and Ash” is the third installment in James Cameron’s epic science fiction saga and the follow-up to “Avatar: The Way of Water.” Directed by Cameron and produced by Lightstorm Entertainment, the film continues the sweeping story of Pandora with returning stars Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, and Kate Winslet.
New faces, including Oona Chaplin and David Thewlis, also join the cast. Distributed by 20th Century Studios, the film boasts a reported budget exceeding 400 million dollars and a running time of 197 minutes, reinforcing its status as one of the most ambitious releases of 2025.
A Year Worth Looking Back On, and Forward From
On the red carpet, HOLA! asked Saldaña how it feels to look back on everything she has achieved this year, including her long-celebrated Oscar win. Her answer captured both humility and drive, a balance that has defined her career. “I’m looking back with gratitude, but I’m always looking forward, always,” she told our publication.
“I’m looking back with gratitude, but I’m always looking forward, always. I had a lot of fun. I was surrounded by a wonderful team. I was supported by my community of actors and producers and directors. I was deeply moved with how people connected to it."
© Getty Images for 20th Century StThat forward-thinking outlook came through again when the conversation turned to the Oscars themselves. Rather than focusing on accolades, Saldaña highlighted the sense of togetherness that surrounded her during the experience. “I had a lot of fun. I was surrounded by a wonderful team. I was supported by my community of actors, producers, and directors. I was deeply moved with how people connected to it, and I was always with my family, and that, to me, means everything,” she explained.
Chanel Elegance on the Miami Red Carpet
For the Miami premiere, Saldaña wore a breathtaking Chanel gown that blended classic couture with subtle drama. The dress featured a deep V neckline and a sleek, form-fitting silhouette that flowed into a softly flared hem. Intricate floral embroidery was scattered across the fabric, with vibrant red, yellow, and black accents adding texture and visual depth.
© Getty Images for 20th Century StThree-dimensional floral appliqués framed the neckline and appeared throughout the gown, giving the look an almost sculptural quality. The craftsmanship felt intentional and artful, a perfect match for an actress known for choosing pieces that tell a story. With her hair slicked back and accessories kept minimal, Saldaña let the gown speak for itself, resulting in a look that was confident, refined, and unmistakably Chanel.
Inside ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’
“Avatar: Fire and Ash” theatrical release poster hints at the film’s intensity, depicting key characters, including Varang, who is shown flying on her banshee above the film’s logo. The imagery leans into darker themes, signaling a chapter defined by conflict, transformation, and the evolving fate of Pandora.
The film premieres on December 19, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre, followed by international releases in Germany, China, and the Philippines.
Looking Ahead With Intention
When asked what she hopes for in the years ahead, Saldaña’s answer was simple, heartfelt, and deeply personal. “I want continued health for my family, and I want to continue doing what I love, which is, you know, art.”
“As Avatar: Fire and Ash” prepares to make its way to theaters worldwide, Zoe Saldaña remains grounded in purpose and possibility. With gratitude for the past and clarity about what truly matters, she continues to move forward, proving that longevity in Hollywood is built not just on talent, but on intention, community, and heart.
