Dear Hollywood, my followers, and the great worldwide entertainment community,
As I pause and reflect on this incredible experience, I am overwhelmed with appreciation. My journey from a modest South African village to the global stage has been anything from conventional. And yet, it was made possible by you—the people, community, and industry that took a chance on me, believed in my voice, and allowed me to develop, fail, rise, and become.
Hollywood, this ever-changing canvas of fantasies, accepted me with all of my jagged edges and vulnerabilities. When I first came, I wasn’t sure where I belonged. But you allowed me to try. You assigned me roles that worried, stretched, and eventually changed me. You allowed a lady with no accent, no connections, and only tenacity and fire to deliver meaningful stories. And, more importantly, you offered me the opportunity to become not only an actress, but also a producer, creator, and voice.
Thank you to the directors, writers, producers, and crews with whom I have had the opportunity of working. Thank you for trusting me, challenging me, and constantly pushing the boundaries of what art can be. Every set I walked on taught me something new. Every scene has taught a lesson about humanity.
Thank you to the entire entertainment community—from independent filmmakers to blockbuster crews, red carpets to writers’ rooms—for being my tribe. This industry has experienced revolutions, reckonings, and rebirths. Throughout it all, we’ve stood together, changing, speaking up, and encouraging one another. I’ve seen personally the power of unity—women leading, stories transforming, and previously unheard voices emerging.
Finally, to the next generation of artists, particularly young women and girls who look at the vast, intimidating world and think, “Is there a place for me?” — Yes. There is. And it is brighter and stronger because of you. Never turn down your light. Keep showing up. Keep saying the truth.
I’m not sure what the next chapter will bring, but I know this: I’ll keep working for greater tales, deeper empathy, and more seats at the table for those still waiting outside.
Thank you for walking alongside me. This legacy—whatever it becomes—is not solely mine. It is ours.
With affection and eternal appreciation
Charlize Theron