“Every day I get to spend with you is better than the one that came before it,” Ryan Coogler expressed during his Oscar acceptance speech, reflecting on his deep appreciation for his wife, Zinzi Coogler.
On March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, Ryan Coogler received the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for his film Sinners. This win marked a significant milestone, as he became the second Black writer to achieve this honor.
Ryan and Zinzi Coogler, who have been married since 2016, have a long history together that dates back to their teenage years. They first met while attending Saint Mary’s College in California, where they began dating. Their first date in 2000 included watching the film Bring It On in theaters.
Throughout their relationship, Zinzi has been a pivotal force in Ryan’s life, encouraging him to pursue a career in filmmaking. She even gifted him screenwriting software to help him on his journey.
In addition to her support as a spouse, Zinzi Coogler has carved out her own path in Hollywood. She previously worked as an American Sign Language interpreter and is now a producer, co-founding Proximity Media with Ryan.
The couple shares three children, whose names and genders remain private, but their family life is a central part of their story.
During the Oscars, Ryan also acknowledged the contributions of his cast, including Michael B. Jordan, who won the Best Actor Oscar for his role in Sinners. The film itself garnered a total of 16 nominations, winning awards for Best Original Song and Best Cinematography.
Ryan’s heartfelt words continued as he said, “Thank you for making me believe in myself,” and concluded with, “Zinzi, you are the best wife and mom in the world. I love y’all more than anything.” These sentiments highlight the strong bond and mutual support that define their relationship.
As the couple moves forward, their collaborative efforts in the film industry are expected to continue, with fans eagerly anticipating their future projects together.
