Paul Tazewell became the first Black man to win an Academy Award for Best Costume Design. The legendary designer was honored for his incredible work on the film adaptation of Wicked, creating over 1,000 costumes that brought the magical world of Oz to life.
While this is Tazewell’s first Oscar win, he is no stranger to accolades. He is a Tony Award-winning designer, widely celebrated for his stunning work in theater, television, and film, including his iconic contributions to Hamilton, West Side Story, and Harriet.
"This is everything."
— ABC News (@ABC) March 3, 2025
Paul Tazewell made history by becoming the first Black man to win the Oscar for Best Costume Design.#Oscarshttps://t.co/nl9CxOviL4 pic.twitter.com/TcSHpEotcW
Tazewell’s win is only the second time a Black person has won the Oscar for Best Costume Design. Ruth E. Carter first shattered the glass ceiling with her victories for Black Panther (2019) and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2023).
“This is absolutely astounding. Thank you, Academy, for this very significant honor. I’m the first Black man to receive a costume design award for my work on Wicked… I’m so proud of this,” Tazewell said during his acceptance speech at the 97th Academy Awards.
He went on to thank his colleagues in the U.K. for their dedication to bringing his vision to life, as well as the film’s leading ladies, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, who helped inspire his designs.
