Jane Fonda is calling on Hollywood to meet today’s challenges with understanding and compassion. She believes that as actors, our job is to connect deeply with others. “What we create is empathy,” she said, during her acceptance speech for the Screen Actors Guild life achievement award. “Empathy isn’t weak. It simply means you care about others.”
Fonda touched on the political landscape, referring to the impact of job cuts during the Trump administration. “Many people will be hurt by what’s happening,” she noted. “We should listen to each other, regardless of differing political views, and do so with our hearts.”
She emphasized the importance of unions like SAG-AFTRA, saying they provide necessary support during tough times. “Unions strengthen our community and give us power. Today, when workers’ rights are under threat, community matters more than ever.”
At 87, Fonda has had a remarkable career in Hollywood. Her work spans over six decades, including films like “Klute,” “9 to 5,” “Grace & Frankie,” and many more. She has earned two Oscars, an Emmy, and seven Golden Globes, among other honors.
As the 60th recipient of the SAG life achievement award, Fonda joins a prestigious list of past honorees. She joked about her unconventional career path, mentioning her retirement at 50 and her successful return at 65. “I might even do my own stunts in an action film when I’m 90,” she laughed.
Fonda described acting as a way to express anger and opinion, which she felt restricted by societal norms in her youth. “It allowed me to portray strong, opinionated women, which was quite a change for me,” she joked.
Outside of acting, Fonda is well-known for her activism. She champions civil rights, gender equality, and environmental issues. In late 2019, she was arrested multiple times while protesting for climate action at the Capitol, joined by friends like Ted Danson and Rosanna Arquette.
In her speech, Fonda recalled the era of McCarthyism, a time when many careers in Hollywood were damaged by anti-communist sentiment. She reminded the audience how Hollywood stood against oppression then, and urged them to consider their role in today’s struggles. “We’re in a documentary moment. This is real, and it’s time to act,” she stated.
As she wrapped up her speech, Fonda encouraged the audience to remain hopeful. “On the other side, there will still be love, beauty, and truth. But we must face the reality of our situation,” she warned. “Let’s be brave, stay connected, and support those who are vulnerable.”
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Jane Fonda,SAG Awards
