Paul Tazewell makes history as the first Black man to win an Oscar for Best Costume Design

At the 97th Academy Awards, Paul Tazewell made history as the first Black man to win an Oscar for Best Costume Design for his exceptional work on the set of the highly anticipated film Wicked.

Tazewell’s groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone in the history of the Academy Awards and the world of costume design. His win underscores the importance of diversity and representation within the industry, as it celebrates the artistry of Black professionals in an area that has historically lacked recognition.

“I’m the first Black man to receive a costume design award for my work on Wicked,” Tazewell said in his acceptance speech. “I’m so proud of this,”

The Academy Award for Best Costume Design was not officially established as a category until 1949, yet it has consistently celebrated the creativity and craftsmanship that goes into creating iconic costumes for films.

Tazewell now joins a distinguished group of trailblazers in the category, standing proudly alongside Ruth E. Carter, who became the first Black woman to win the Oscar for Best Costume Design in 2019 for her groundbreaking work on Black Panther.

Together, they are reshaping the narrative of costume design in Hollywood and inspiring future generations of artists to dream big and break barriers.

Tazewell’s costume designs for Wicked, which draw on rich textures and vibrant palettes, helped bring the fantastical world of the musical to life on the big screen, earning praise from critics and audiences alike.

His win signals a growing recognition of the vital contributions that Black artists are making in all facets of the entertainment industry.