Oscars 2025: Sean Baker's award acceptance speech goes beyond family, friends, and film crew. Who did the Anora director acknowledge for his Academy Award?

Oscars 2025 Sean Baker: The 97th Academy Awards witnessed a powerful moment as Sean Baker, the visionary writer and director of Anora, claimed the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay — but not without sharing the spotlight. The filmmaker, known for shedding light on the marginalized voices of the sex worker community, made an emotional tribute that resonated far beyond the glitzy walls of the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

Taking the stage amidst thunderous applause, Baker described his victory as “crazy”, expressing gratitude to the Academy, his dedicated team, and the film’s “incredible, incredible cast” led by breakout star Mikey Madison. However, it was his heartfelt dedication to the sex worker community that stole the show.

"I want to thank the sex worker community — they have shared their stories, they have shared their life experiences with me over the years," Baker declared. “My deepest respect, thank you, I share this with you.”


The speech marked a groundbreaking moment for the Oscars, acknowledging a community that has long been stigmatized and underrepresented in mainstream cinema.

Sean Baker Breaking Stereotypes

Baker’s body of work — from Tangerine to The Florida Project — has consistently championed those living on society’s fringes. Speaking to UNILAD before the ceremony, Baker admitted he was surprised by the “universal love and support” Anora received, especially given its controversial subject matter.

"This is my fifth film that covers the subject matter,” he noted. “Hopefully, each time I do it, I help remove the unfair stigma surrounding the adult industry."

Sparking Conversations

While Anora shines a spotlight on the realities of sex work, Baker’s storytelling leaves room for audience interpretation. The film’s nuanced approach challenges viewers to confront their own preconceptions — a decision Baker says was entirely intentional.

"I wanted to make this film to spark discussion," he explained. "People can apply their own histories and politics to these characters, and that’s exactly what cinema should do."

A Night of Triumph

Anora didn’t stop at Best Original Screenplay — the film also clinched Best Editing, with Baker giving a special shoutout to the three individuals allowed into the editing room. The critically acclaimed drama remains a frontrunner for Best Picture, with Baker up for Best Director and cast members Mikey Madison and Yuriy Borisov competing in acting categories.

Sean Baker’s Oscar win signals a seismic shift in Hollywood’s narrative landscape, proving that stories from the margins can resonate with global audiences. By dedicating his award to the sex worker community, Baker not only elevated their voices but also opened the door for more empathetic, unfiltered storytelling.