The Most Epic Oscars Moments In Hollywood History
With such high stakes, the Academy Awards often feature more drama than the actual movies. The lights get bright, and the talent truly shines... or dramatically folds. These unforgettable mid-show moments captured both the emotional highs and lows of the ceremony and maybe some deserve film adaptations of their own — and probably a few Oscars, too.
Hattie McDaniel Makes History (1940)
In a groundbreaking decision, Hattie McDaniel became the first African-American to win an Oscar. She received it for her part as Mammy in Gone with the Wind, an epic that many viewers give a damn about.
Ben-Hur Wins 11 Oscars (1959)
A religious film featuring a Jewish man enslaved by Romans, Ben-Hur took home 11 Oscars. Charleton Heston won Best Actor, William Wyler won Best Director, and several costume and set designers were recognized for their contributions, too. Ben-Hur, Titanic (1997), and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003) are the only films with so many wins.
Hollywood Recognizes Charlie Chaplin (1972)
In the early days of the Cold War, allegations of Communist sympathies got Charlie Chaplin blacklisted from film. Decades later in 1972, Hollywood returned to its senses and awarded the comedian an honorary Oscar. The crowd gave him an astounding 12 minute standing ovation.
Marlon Brando Sends a Guest (1973)
Marlon Brando skipped the 45th Academy Awards, where he won Best Actor for The Godfather. He did send someone in his place — Native American activist Sacheen Littlefeather. She turned down the statuette and called out the industry's mistreatment of her people.
