American costume designer Paul Tazewell has made history as the first Black man to win an Academy Award for Best Costume Design at the 97th Oscars for his work on Jon M. Chu’s movie, Wicked.
Tazewell beat out tough competitors like Arianne Phillips (A Complete Unknown), Janty Yates & Dave Crossman (Gladiator II), Lisy Christl (Conclave), and Linda Muir (Nosferatu).
While accepting the award, the 60-year-old designer expressed his gratitude, saying:
“This is absolutely astounding. I am the first Black man to receive the costume design award for my work on Wicked… This is everything. Thank you.”
His win was met with cheers and a standing ovation from the crowd.
Who Is Paul Tazewell?
Born in Akron, Ohio, in 1964, Tazewell started his career in theatre and has worked on iconic Broadway productions like:
• Hamilton
• In the Heights
• The Color Purple
• Jesus Christ Superstar
He previously earned an Oscar nomination in 2022 for his work on West Side Story.
With this win, Tazewell is now just one step away from achieving EGOT status — having already won a Tony Award in 2016 for Hamilton and an Emmy Award in 2018 for The Wiz Live!
Fans Celebrate the Historic Win 🔥
@itsdammybaby: “Paul Tazewell finally getting his flowers! Black excellence 👏🏽.”
@theatrequeen: “Hamilton to Wicked! This man is a legend.”
@ajayizbeauty: “One step away from EGOT status? Go, King!”
Congratulations to Paul Tazewell on making history! 🎯✨
