Blake Lively Extols America Ferrera’s Remarkable Critics Choice Awards Speech: ‘Endow This Woman with Every Platform’

Blake Lively expressed admiration for her Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants co-star and close friend, America Ferrera, following Ferrera’s acceptance of the SeeHer Award at the 2024 Critics Choice Awards on Sunday night.

Lively, 36, took to her Instagram Story to commend Ferrera, 39, sharing a video of the Barbie actress’s impactful moment on stage. “Give this woman every stage, every statue, and every microphone forever please,” Lively wrote, emphasizing the depth of her appreciation for Ferrera. She continued, “My god, we are blessed to orbit in the same times as you, my sister, @americaferrera.”

Ferrera received the SeeHer Award from her Barbie co-star Margot Robbie at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. In her acceptance speech, Ferrera spoke passionately about the significance of the honor, expressing how meaningful it was to her due to her roots. She reflected on her early years in the industry and the seeming impossibility of portraying fully dimensional Latina characters.

The actress acknowledged the contributions of writers, producers, and directors who have played a pivotal role in bringing to life diverse and powerful female characters. Ferrera’s speech resonated with many in the audience, with notable reactions from Brie Larson, who appeared visibly moved, and Taraji P. Henson, who nodded along in agreement.

Ferrera also took a moment to acknowledge Barbie director Greta Gerwig, commending her for proving that wоmen’s stories can achieve cinematic greatness and box office success simultaneously. In her Instagram post featuring the speech, Ferrera expressed gratitude to the Critics Choice for honoring her with the #SeeHer Award and thanked them for providing her with the opportunity to speak from the heart.

The SeeHer Award, established in 2017, recognizes leading ladies in the film industry who advocate for gender equality and portray authentic, groundbreaking characters. Previous recipients include Viola Davis in 2017, Zendaya in 2021, Halle Berry in 2022, and Janelle Monáe in 2023.

Lively’s fellow Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants co-star, Amber Tamblyn, also joined in expressing admiration for Ferrera, commenting, “You’re extraordinary and that’s all there is to it. I love you.” The bond between the Sisterhood members remаins strong, both on and off the screen.