The Most Iconic Speeches in Oscars History

The Oscars, also known as the Academy Awards, is one of the most prestigious award shows in the entertainment industry. Each year, the Oscars recognize outstanding achievements in film, from directing to acting to music. In addition to the glitz and glamour of the red carpet and the excitement of seeing who takes home the coveted golden statuettes, the Oscars have also been the stage for some of the most iconic speeches in history. From heartfelt moments to powerful statements, here are some of the most memorable speeches in Oscars history.

Halle Berry - Breaking Barriers (2002)

In 2002, Halle Berry became the first Black woman to win the Best Actress Oscar for her role in "Monster's Ball." Berry's emotional acceptance speech highlighted the significance of her win, saying, "This moment is so much bigger than me. It's for every nameless, faceless woman of color that now has a chance because this door tonight has been opened." Berry's speech broke barriers and paved the way for future actors of color.

Viola Davis - "The Help" (2012)

In 2012, Viola Davis was nominated for Best Actress for her role in "The Help." While she did not win the award, her speech during the awards ceremony was still iconic. Davis spoke about the importance of telling diverse stories in Hollywood and how film can be a powerful tool for change. She said, "The stain of racism and sexism is not just for people of color or women. It's all of our burden, all of us." Davis' speech was a reminder that Hollywood has a responsibility to tell stories that accurately reflect the world we live in.

Emma Stone - "La La Land" (2017)

In 2017, "La La Land" was mistakenly announced as the winner of Best Picture, only for it to be revealed that "Moonlight" had actually won. Emma Stone, who won the Best Actress Oscar for her role in "La La Land," took the opportunity to gracefully acknowledge the mix-up and express her admiration for "Moonlight." She said, "I still have the envelope in my hand. I'm not going to say that 'Moonlight' is the wrong winner...This is a very strange happening. But I'm so excited for 'Moonlight.' I think it's one of the best films of all time." Stone's quick thinking and graciousness in a confusing moment made her speech one of the most memorable in Oscars history.

Heath Ledger - Posthumous Win (2009)

In 2009, Heath Ledger won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his iconic role as the Joker in "The Dark Knight." Ledger had tragically passed away the previous year, making his win a poignant and emotional moment. Ledger's family accepted the award on his behalf, and his father delivered a moving speech that honored his son's legacy. He said, "This award tonight would have humbly validated Heath's quiet determination to be truly accepted by you all here, his peers, within an industry he so loved."

Oprah Winfrey - Women's Empowerment (2018)

In 2018, Oprah Winfrey was the recipient of the Cecil B. DeMille Award, which honors outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment. Winfrey's speech was a powerful call to action for women's empowerment, and it quickly went viral. She said, "I want all the girls watching here and now to know that a new day is on the horizon! And when that new day finally dawns, it will be because of a lot of magnificent women, many of whom are right here in this room tonight, and some pretty phenomenal men, fighting hard to make sure that they become the leaders who take us to the time when nobody ever has to say 'Me too' again." Winfrey's inspiring words resonated with people all over the world and made her speech one of the most iconic in Oscars history.

The Oscars have given us some of the most memorable moments in entertainment history, and many of those moments have come from the speeches delivered by the winners and presenters. From emotional tributes to powerful calls to action, these speeches have the power to move us and remind us of the impact that film can have on the world. As we look forward to future Oscars ceremonies, we can only hope that the speeches will continue to inspire and empower us.