Filmmaker Ryan Coogler paused mid-speech, eyes shining with emotion, to praise his wife and creative partner while accepting a major directing honor Tuesday night.
Coogler, 39, received the Director Award at the Critics Choice Association’s 8th Annual Celebration of Black Cinema & Television. The ceremony, held in Los Angeles, spotlighted outstanding contributions to film and television by Black artists.
Heartfelt Tribute to Zinzi Coogler
As applause tapered, Coogler shifted his attention to Zinzi Coogler, his wife and longtime collaborator. The couple met as teenagers and married in 2016. Over two decades later, Coogler said she remains central to his life and work.
“Back in 2003, I saw this young woman running circles around everyone on the track,” Coogler said, his voice catching. “I didn’t get her number that day, but I worked up the nerve by the next meet.”
He described how their partnership strengthened him personally and professionally. “She made me a better person, a harder worker and a better filmmaker,” he added.
At one point, he smiled widely and said, “For this movie, she was my boss. It was hard. The best thing I’ve ever done was let her help steer this ship.”
Zinzi serves as a producer on Sinners, Coogler’s latest feature and one of this awards season’s most talked-about films. The movie has collected numerous accolades and Golden Globe nominations, and her role in its creation has drawn attention from critics and fans alike.
Several stars from Sinners, including Michael B. Jordan and Wunmi Mosaku, were present for the festivities. Their support underscored the film’s collaborative spirit.
Coogler’s remarks resonated in a room filled with laughter and applause. “She’s changed my life more times than I can count,” he said, gesturing toward Zinzi.
Earlier in the evening, Coogler also helped honor filmmaker Spike Lee with a Career Achievement Award. He credited Lee with influencing a generation of storytellers, including himself.
“Working with people I respect so deeply reminds me why we make these stories,” Coogler said in an interview after the ceremony. “The love I have for this craft and the people who help me do it is everything.”
For Coogler, the moment was more than a professional milestone. It was a vivid reminder of the partnership that has shaped his journey from Oakland to Hollywood.
“Every film I’ve made has traces of her wisdom,” he said. “This award belongs to both of us.”