Salma Hayek’s role in Eternals (2021), part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), marked a significant moment in her career and for representation in Hollywood. As Ajak, the wise and nurturing leader of the immortal superheroes, Hayek stepped into a major superhero franchise, a space that historically lacked diversity, particularly for women of color. Her casting as Ajak, a character originally depicted as male in the comics, demonstrated Marvel’s effort to bring more inclusive storytelling to the forefront, offering a fresh take on the superhero genre while elevating Hayek's legacy as a barrier-breaking actress.

In Eternals, Hayek portrayed Ajak as a compassionate but powerful figure, who serves as the moral compass for her team of immortals. Her performance was layered with emotional depth, balancing Ajak’s strength with vulnerability. Hayek's ability to bring nuance to the character set her apart, showcasing her versatility as an actress in a genre typically dominated by action and spectacle. For audiences, seeing a Latina actress in such a commanding role within the MCU was groundbreaking, opening doors for further representation in blockbuster films.

Hayek herself has been vocal about how meaningful this role was to her personally. In interviews, she expressed the significance of portraying a superhero at a time when diversity in Hollywood remains an ongoing battle. She discussed the importance of being able to wear the iconic superhero costume, a symbol of empowerment not just for her but for other women and girls of diverse backgrounds. Hayek emphasized how this casting choice helped redefine beauty and strength, proving that age, ethnicity, and gender do not limit one’s ability to be a hero in the world of cinema.

Salma Hayek’s involvement in Eternals not only reinforced her status as a prominent actress but also contributed to the ongoing conversation about inclusivity in Hollywood. Her portrayal of Ajak brought attention to the value of diverse storytelling, both in terms of gender and cultural representation, within major franchises. As the MCU continues to expand, Hayek’s role in Eternals stands as a reminder that true progress in cinema comes when all voices are heard and represented on the grandest of stages.