Paul Tazewell made history as the first African American man to win the Oscar for Best Costume Design for his work on “Wicked.” This achievement adds to his Critics Choice, BAFTA, Tony, Emmy, and Costume Designers Guild honors.
Tazewell was previously nominated for an Oscar in 2021 for “West Side Story” and won a Tony for “Hamilton” and an Emmy for “The Wiz Live.” Variety reports he received several industry accolades for “Wicked” this award season, defeating nominees like Janty Yates and David Crossman for “Gladiator II,” Linda Muir for “Nosferatu,” Lisy Christl for “Conclave,” and Arianne Phillips for “A Complete Unknown.”
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After Ruth E. Carter, who won for Black Panther and its follow-up, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Tazewell is just the second Black individual to win in the category.
Tazewell recognized the historic occasion in his victory speech and thanked the Wicked cast and crew, particularly Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, for their pride and hard work.
Tazewell created more than 1,000 Wicked costumes, including the famous black dress worn by Elphaba and the bubble garment worn by Glinda.
