Oscars acceptance speeches have earned a reputation for being a blend of inspiration, emotion, and occasional awkwardness. Fortunately, this year’s ceremony saw Hollywood’s finest deliver speeches that stirred a myriad of feelings. From heartfelt gratitude to witty remarks, here are the five standout speeches that captured our hearts:
The 5 Most Memorable Oscars Speeches of 2024
1. Tribute by Mary Steenburgen, Lupita Nyong’o, Jamie Lee Curtis, Rita Moreno, and Regina King:
In a nostalgic nod to tradition, five former Best Supporting Actress winners graced the stage to announce this year’s recipient. Mary Steenburgen, Lupita Nyong’o, Jamie Lee Curtis, Rita Moreno, and Regina King delivered poignant speeches praising the nominees, evoking tears with their genuine camaraderie and support for each other.
2. Da’Vine Joy Randolph’s Debut Victory:
In a heartfelt moment, Da’Vine Joy Randolph expressed gratitude for her first-ever Oscar win for her role in “The Holdovers.” Her speech, brimming with emotion, paid tribute to her mother’s encouragement and the individuals who guided her journey. Her poignant words resonated as she emphasized the importance of authenticity, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
3. Cord Jefferson’s Stirring Plea:
Cord Jefferson’s acceptance speech for Best Adapted Screenplay for “American Fiction” was a masterclass in advocacy. With humor and sincerity, he urged the industry to take risks and provide opportunities to diverse voices. His impassioned plea for inclusivity and support for emerging filmmakers struck a chord, earning thunderous applause.
4. Guillermo Rodriguez’s Hilarious Toast:
Guillermo Rodriguez injected humor into the ceremony with his endearing toast to the front row celebrities. Despite being interrupted by the host, his genuine affection for everyone present, especially Jimmy Kimmel, elicited laughter and warm sentiments from the audience.
5. Billie Eilish and Finneas’s Heartfelt Gratitude:
Billie Eilish and Finneas’s acceptance speech for Best Original Song (“What Was I Made For”) was a rollercoaster of emotions. Billie’s candid admission of pre-ceremony nerves transitioned into heartfelt thanks to the Academy and a touching dedication to those impacted by their work. Finneas’s heartfelt acknowledgment of loved ones added a final touch of sincerity to their memorable moment.
These speeches, ranging from nostalgic tributes to impassioned pleas and heartfelt gratitude, epitomized the essence of the Oscars and left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.