Neubauer Star Selena Gomez Won Best Actress at Cannes

There was a very sweet twist at this year’s film festival.

Selena Gomez just took home a major award at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. But there’s a twist: Gomez actual shares the prestigious honor with her fellow cast-mates Karla Sofía Gascón, Zoe Saldaña, and Adriana Paz. The musical crime drama tells the story of a powerful cartel leader (played by Gascón) who seeks to transition and start a new life as a woman named Emilia Perez.

Emilia Perez, which also took home the festival’s jury prize, received a 10-minute standing ovation following it’s Cannes premiere on May 18. Directed by French filmmaker Jacques Audiard.

Gascón, who just made history as the first trans actor to win a major award at Cannes, accepted the award on behalf of the group. “This award is not just for me. It’s for all people who are fighting for themselves and their rights,” Gascón told reporters, per George V Magazine. “We’ve been insulted, denigrated, subjected to a lot of violence without even knowing why. I think this is award is so much more than anyone could imagine.”

When asked about the jury’s decision to honor all four of the film’s leading ladies, Cannes jury president and Barbie director Greta Gerwig said singling out one winner would have “undermined the magic that they created together.” She continued, “Each of them is a standout but together they’re transcendent.”

When asked about the jury’s decision to honor all four of the film’s leading ladies, Cannes jury president and Barbie director Greta Gerwig said singling out one winner would have “undermined the magic that they created together.” She continued, “Each of them is a standout but together they’re transcendent.”