We’re not the only ones in love with the wise women of Wakanda!
On Sunday night, the E! People’s Choice Awards named Danai Gurira “Action Movie Star of 2018” for her performance as Okoye in Marvel’s record-breaking blockbuster, Black Panther.
As the leader of the militant Dora Milaje, Okoye is a no-nonsense woman who works with her sisters to protect the King and their country in the film.
During her acceptance speech, Gurira spent her time at the podium expressing how grateful she was to be considered an action star instead of a female action star by the network.
“Thank you for affirming that women and girls— when they are given the chance to hang with the boys—can hang with the best of them. Thank you,” she said.
Her fellow nominees in the category included her Black Panther co-star, Chadwick Boseman, along with Chris Hemsworth, Ryan Reynolds and Chris Pratt.
She also thanked the film’s director for giving her and her co-stars the opportunity to do something other than portray the typical damsels in distress.
“I have to give love and appreciation to Mr. Ryan Coogler, the storyteller behind this, and for giving me this role and entrusting women to be collaborators, to be front and center and to have space and tell a story with him,” she continued on stage. “Thank you very much, Mr. Coogler.”
We can’t wait to see her back in action in the sequel!
