**Zendaya Pays Homage to Halle Berry at the 2026 Emmys**
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Zendaya made a striking impression at the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards held on September 14, 2026, capturing the essence of Halle Berry’s iconic look from the 2002 premiere of ‘Die Another Day’. The 30-year-old star wore a custom silver sequin gown by Prada, designed with sheer white fabric and enhanced with a mini train, reminiscent of Berry’s memorable ensemble from two decades prior.
Stylist Law Roach confirmed that Berry was a significant inspiration behind Zendaya’s captivating look. Roach shared a post on Instagram which featured side-by-side images showcasing the two actresses, highlighting their similar styles. Halle Berry herself responded warmly to this homage, sharing the post on her own Instagram Stories with an animated heart and tagging both Roach and Zendaya.

Zendaya’s outfit was complemented by carefully chosen accessories, including a Rolex watch and jewellery from Mikimoto. This appearance marked a notable moment for the star as she showcased a freshly styled pixie cut, which added a modern twist to her overall look. Hairstylist Coree Moreno described the hairstyle as a classic pixie reimagined for contemporary sensibilities, infusing it with texture and lift to create a ‘feminine and refined’ appearance that maintained a hint of rebellion.
In the past, both actresses have expressed admiration for one another, with Berry openly celebrating Zendaya’s influence in Hollywood. In a previous statement during the 2021 Sundance Film Festival, Berry referred to Zendaya as a “walking embodiment” of the increasing success of Black women in the industry. Berry expressed her pride in Zendaya’s achievements, remarking that her presence signifies significant change within the film landscape.

Following the Emmys, Berry shared a clip on Instagram from her appearance on ‘The Drew Barrymore Show’, where she expressed her desire to play Zendaya’s mother in a future project. This expression of admiration further exemplifies the mutual respect and connection between the two actresses. Berry’s supportive comments about Zendaya have long been echoed within the industry, as she has consistently advocated for the representation of Black women in film.
In another Instagram Story, Berry posted a link to an interview with Roach published by Refinery29, in which the stylist reiterated the influence Berry had on Zendaya’s Emmy look. Berry’s remark—”She murdered the night”—encapsulated her enthusiasm, further contributing to the camaraderie evident between the two stars.
Such tributes highlight the generational kinship and shared journey of these artists, showcasing how they each navigate the evolving landscape of Hollywood. As a trailblazer herself, Halle Berry’s legacy continues to shape the aspirations of up-and-coming stars like Zendaya, who are forging their paths while honouring the tradition laid down by predecessors.
Now looking ahead, Zendaya’s next major role is set to be in ‘Dune: Part Three’, which is anticipated to hit cinemas on December 18. As she continues to draw accolades and break new ground, the tribute to Halle Berry at the Emmys was a poignant reminder of the rich tapestry of inspiration that exists within the entertainment industry—a celebration of past and present talents.
