Rises to the Top Thanks to Avatar Series Success
Sets a Major Record with 33 Starring Roles
Expresses Gratitude to Fans via Social Media
Hollywood actress Zoe Saldana, well known for her roles as Neytiri in the Avatar series and Gamora in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) Guardians of the Galaxy series, has become the highest-grossing actor in American film history. On January 13 (local time), American entertainment media outlet Variety reported that the release of Avatar: The Way of Water in December last year generated approximately 1.23 billion dollars (about 1.8 trillion won) in global box office revenue, significantly increasing the cumulative box office earnings of films starring Zoe Saldana.
Hollywood actress Zoe Saldana, well known for Neytiri in the "Avatar" series and Gamora in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) "Guardians of the Galaxy" series. Photo by AP Yonhap News
According to the box office statistics site The Numbers, Zoe Saldana has accumulated a total box office revenue of 15.47 billion dollars (about 22.6 trillion won) from 33 lead roles. This surpasses the previous record held by Scarlett Johansson, who now ranks second with approximately 15.4 billion dollars from 36 lead roles. Samuel L. Jackson follows in third place with about 14.6 billion dollars from 70 films, and Robert Downey Jr. is in fourth place with 14.3 billion dollars from 45 films.
After the news broke that she had become the highest-grossing actor, Zoe Saldana expressed her gratitude through her social media. She said, "I am truly grateful for this extraordinary journey that has led to the record of being the highest-grossing actor of all time," adding, "It is thanks to the incredible franchises and collaborators I have worked with, as well as the directors who believed in me." She went on to mention J.J. Abrams of Star Trek, Joe Russo and Anthony Russo of Avengers, James Gunn of Guardians of the Galaxy, and James Cameron of Avatar, emphasizing, "The directors' trust and guidance have shaped me as both an actor and an artist." Addressing her fans, she added, "Your unwavering support and passion are the foundation of this record-breaking achievement," and, "This accomplishment belongs to all of us."
Joe Saldana expressed his gratitude through his social media following the news of becoming the top-grossing actor. Photo by EPA Yonhap News
Born in New Jersey, United States, in 1978, Zoe Saldana majored in dance before making her film debut in Center Stage in 2000. She went on to become a global star through major franchise films such as the Avatar series, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Avengers. Recently, she was recognized for her acting skills by winning a Best Supporting Actress award at the Academy Awards for the film Emilia Perez.
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