His win is three decades in the making!
History was made at the 97th Academy Awards as Paul Tazewell became the first Black man to win the Oscar for Best Costume Design, AP News reports. Tazewell, a legendary designer with over 35 years of experience in theater and film, took home the coveted award for his breathtaking work on Wicked. His win marks a significant milestone in the industry and serves as an inspiration for aspiring Black costume designers everywhere.
“I’m the first Black man to receive the costume design award,” Tazewell proudly stated during his acceptance speech, which was met with a standing ovation. “I’m so proud of this.”
Tazewell’s historic win is a testament to his dedication and groundbreaking work in costume design. Before this Oscar victory, he had already built an impressive resume, earning recognition across Broadway and film. He previously received an Oscar nomination for Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story and has won an Emmy for The Wiz Live!, as well as a Tony for his iconic work on Hamilton.
Reflecting on his journey, Tazewell shared the impact of his win on future generations. “I’ve been designing costumes for over 35 years — that has been on Broadway, and now it’s film. There was never a Black male designer who I saw that I could follow and see as an inspiration. But to realize now that it’s actually me.”
Before the Oscars, Tazewell’s work on Wicked also earned him accolades at the BAFTA Awards, Critics’ Choice Awards, and the Costume Designers Guild Awards. His triumph follows the path paved by Ruth E. Carter, who made history in 2018 as the first Black person to win Best Costume Design for Black Panther and later became the first Black woman to win two Oscars in 2023. Tazewell acknowledged Carter’s impact, stating, “She has paved the way for designers of color.”
During his acceptance speech, Tazewell expressed gratitude to Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. “To my muses, Cynthia and Ariana, and all the other cast, thank you for trusting me with bringing your characters to life. This is everything.”
Tazewell’s career continues to shine, with a portfolio that includes work on Harriet, The Color Purple, In the Heights, MJ the Musical, Suffs, and A Streetcar Named Desire. His influence is undeniable, and his historic Oscar win solidifies his place as a trailblazer in costume design, inspiring a new generation to dream big and break barriers.
“Winning the Oscar for Wicked is the highest point of my life, my North Star. It is my privilege to be the first Black Man to receive an Academy Award for Outstanding Costumes. I have evolved into that inspiring figure that I had been longing to emulate as a developing designer. I receive this beautiful recognition with immense pride and I dedicate it to everyone who has the dream to fly,” Tazewell captioned a social media post celebrating his historic win.
Cover photo: Paul Tazewell Makes History as First Black Man to Win Oscar for Best Costume Design/Photo credit: Nina Westervelt/The New York Times