Paul Tazewell of 'Wicked' becomes first Black man to win costume design Oscar
It didn't take an act of Ozian magic for "Wicked" costume designer Paul Tazewell to make Oscars history.
Tazewell, who helped bring the fantastical world of Elphaba and Glinda to life through his bewitching looks, was recognized at the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday night when he won the award for best costume design.
Aside from beating out the scene-stealing style of fellow nominees "A Complete Unknown," "Conclave," "Gladiator II" and "Nosferatu," Tazewell made history with his win, becoming the first Black man to nab the honor.
"This is absolutely astounding. Thank you, Academy, for this very significant honor," said Tazewell, who wore a black Dolce & Gabbana suit with a long-sleeved silk shirt. "I'm the first Black man to receive the costume design award for my work on 'Wicked.' I'm so proud of this."
Ahead of his Oscars victory, Tazewell was praised by "Wicked" star Bowen Yang, who helped introduce the costume design category.
"To be costumed by the great Paul Tazewell is one of the biggest honors of my alleged career," Yang joked. "Paul, I'm actually upset with you because I can't talk about your exquisite work without sounding like a total jackass."
He added: "If I have to say the words 'sumptuous fabrics' one more time in an interview, I am going to defy gravity off the side of this stage. Paul, how very dare you for being such a one-of-a-kind talent. I love you so much."
Tazewell also gave a sweet shoutout to the "Wicked" cast, including his "Ozian muses" Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. "I love you so much," he said. "All the other cast, thank you ... for trusting me with bringing your characters to life."
The Ohio-born costumer follows in the historic footsteps of designer Ruth E. Carter, who became the first Black designer to win an Oscar for costume design in 2019 for her work on the Marvel film "Black Panther."
Tazewell's other credits include "West Side Story," "Hamilton" and "Harriet." His work on the Steven Spielberg-directed "West Side Story" earned him a nomination for best costume design in 2022.