When the Oscars roll in, it’s not just about the fancy outfits and red carpet. It’s full of emotions with all the drama and shocking moments that steal our attention. But the one thing that truly steals the show is those iconic Oscar speeches have made us laugh and cry and left us utterly speechless. Here’s a roundup of Hollywood icons’ most unforgettable Oscar speeches ever delivered.
Frances McDormand (2018)
In 2018, Frances McDormand didn’t just receive an Oscar; she set the stage on fire. From her witty opener about hyperventilating to her call for female nominees to stand together, she didn’t hold back. Remember her fierce call for an “inclusion rider” that had everyone Googling like crazy? That moment was more than just a speech—it was a battle cry for diversity and equality in the movie biz.
Kate Winslet (2009)
Flashback to 2009 when Kate Winslet’s heartfelt acceptance speech left us all reaching for the tissues. She didn’t just thank the usual crew; she gave a shout-out to the unsung heroes behind the scenes. That raw display of gratitude? It’s what Hollywood dreams are made of.
Troy Kotsur (2022)
Troy Kotsur’s 2022 Oscars win marked a historic moment. As the first male deaf actor to receive an Academy Award, his moving tribute to his father and the struggles of the Deaf community resonated deeply.
Emerald Fennell (2021)
Emerald Fennell’s refreshingly honest and relatable Oscars speech in 2021 struck a chord with viewers worldwide. Her candid admission about not preparing a speech and her quirky reference to her childhood crush from “Saved By The Bell” charmed audiences.
Olivia Colman (2019)
In 2019, Olivia Colman’s Oscars speech wasn’t just your typical thank-you note. Her adorable shock, cheeky tongue poking, and impromptu Lady Gaga shout-out made her the queen of the night.
Natalie Portman (2011)
Natalie Portman’s heartfelt Oscars speech in 2011 was a touching tribute to the often-overlooked contributors in the film industry. Beyond expressing gratitude to her family and colleagues, she used her moment to recognize the behind-the-scenes professionals, showcasing her humility and appreciation for the collaborative effort that brings movie magic to life.
Ariana DeBose (2022)
Fresh from her triumph in West Side Story, Ariana DeBose brought power and heart to the 94th Academy Awards. Accepting the Best Supporting Actress award from Daniel Kaluuya and H.E.R., she fearlessly celebrated her identity as an “openly queer woman of color.”
Daniel Kaluuya (2021)
When Daniel Kaluuya, the star of Judas and the Black Messiah, graced the Oscars stage, it wasn’t just his remarkable acting that stole the show. Amidst honoring civil rights icon Chairman Fred Hampton, his lighthearted nod to his parents turned the tide. With his quirky yet profound thank you for their role in bringing him into the world, he managed to bring the house down and create a moment that would go down in Oscar history.
Joe Pesci (1991)
Joe Pesci’s acceptance speech at the 1991 Academy Awards, where he won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role in “Goodfellas,” is remembered for its brevity and impact. His speech consisted of just five words: “It’s my privilege. Thank you.” This succinct and humble expression of gratitude made it one of the shortest acceptance speeches in Oscar history.
Sandra Bullock (2010)
Back in 2010, the ever-humble Sandra Bullock’s Oscar win for The Blind Side was more than just a personal victory. Her heartfelt speech dedicated to her fellow nominees, including Meryl Streep and others, showcased her grace and humility.
Halle Berry (2002)
Halle Berry’s tearful 2002 Oscars acceptance speech as the first Black woman to win the Best Actress award was a profoundly emotional and pivotal milestone in a historic moment that reverberated through the industry.
Matthew McConaughey (2014)
Matthew McConaughey’s 2014 Oscars win was the pinnacle of his career transformation, and his emotional speech took the world by storm. From his heartfelt gratitude to God and family to his poignant acknowledgment of his colleagues, his words resonated deeply, earning the speech the spot of the third most-watched Oscars speech on YouTube and solidifying his place in Hollywood as a serious contender.
Heath Ledger (2009)
Heath Ledger’s posthumous win for his unforgettable portrayal of the Joker in The Dark Knight marked a bittersweet moment in Oscars history. Though he was not present to accept the award, his family’s acceptance on his behalf was an emotional reminder of his immense talent and the legacy he left behind.
Leonardo DiCaprio (2016)
The world held its breath as Leonardo DiCaprio finally clinched his long-awaited Oscar in 2016 for his remarkable performance in The Revenant. His impassioned speech celebrated his success and served as a platform for advocating indigenous rights and addressing the urgent need for climate action. In fact, his captivating words have garnered over 11 million views on YouTube, solidifying his speech as the most-watched Oscars moment in history.
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