how to write an oscar acceptance speech

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4 Award Acceptance Speech Examples

An award acceptance speech is a pivotal moment for any recipient.

It’s a chance to express gratitude, share personal stories, and inspire others.

Whether you’re accepting an Oscar, a Nobel Prize, or an Employee of the Month award, writing the perfect speech can be both exciting and nerve-wracking.

Award Acceptance Speech Examples

In this article, we’ve compiled six award acceptance speech examples to help guide you in creating your own memorable address.

From heartfelt anecdotes to powerful calls-to-action, these speeches showcase the many ways you can captivate your audience and make your moment in the spotlight truly unforgettable.

Here are six award acceptance speeches to inspire your own:

Short Award Acceptance Speech Example

Thank you so much for this incredible honor. I am truly humbled to be standing here today, accepting this award.

I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to my family, friends, and colleagues who have supported me every step of the way. Your unwavering belief in me has been the driving force behind my success.

I also want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of my entire team. This achievement is not mine alone, but a testament to the collective effort and passion that each of you bring to our work every single day.

As I accept this award, I am reminded of the power we have to make a positive impact in the world. Let us continue to push boundaries, challenge the status quo, and use our talents to create meaningful change.

Once again, thank you for this recognition. I am incredibly grateful and promise to continue striving for excellence in all that I do.

— END OF SPEECH —

Commentary: This short acceptance speech is perfect for more casual events or when time is limited. It expresses gratitude, acknowledges support from others, and ends with a brief call-to-action.

Medium-Length Award Acceptance Speech Example

I am deeply honored and humbled to be standing here today, accepting this prestigious award. As I look out at this incredible audience, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the recognition of my work and the support of so many amazing individuals.

First and foremost, I want to thank my family. Mom, Dad, you have been my rock throughout this entire journey. Your love, guidance, and unwavering belief in me have been the foundation upon which I have built my career. I wouldn’t be here without you.

To my mentor, Sarah, thank you for seeing potential in me when I was just starting out. You took me under your wing, shared your wisdom, and challenged me to grow both personally and professionally. Your influence has been immeasurable.

I also want to express my heartfelt appreciation to my colleagues and collaborators. Each of you has played a vital role in my success. Your talent, dedication, and camaraderie have made even the most challenging projects a joy to tackle.

This award is not just a recognition of my individual efforts, but a celebration of the incredible team I am privileged to work with every day. Together, we have pushed boundaries, defied expectations, and created something truly remarkable.

As I stand here today, I am reminded of the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one’s passion. There have been moments of doubt and obstacles along the way, but I have learned that with hard work, determination, and a supportive network, anything is possible.

To all the aspiring professionals out there, I encourage you to never give up on your dreams. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you, and always stay true to your values.

Once again, thank you for this incredible honor. I am deeply grateful and promise to use this recognition as motivation to continue making a positive impact in my field and beyond.

Commentary: This medium-length speech is suitable for more formal occasions where the recipient has a bit more time to share personal anecdotes and acknowledge key individuals who have contributed to their success. It strikes a balance between gratitude and inspiration.

Long Award Acceptance Speech Example

I stand before you today, overwhelmed with gratitude and humility as I accept this incredible honor. This award is not just a recognition of my work, but a testament to the power of dreams, dedication, and the unwavering support of an incredible community.

As a young child growing up in a small town, I never imagined that I would one day be standing on this stage, accepting such a prestigious accolade. My journey has been one of perseverance, learning, and growth, and I owe so much to the people who have been by my side every step of the way.

First, I want to thank my parents. Mom and Dad, you have been my greatest cheerleaders and my unwavering support system. You taught me the value of hard work, integrity, and compassion. You sacrificed so much to provide me with opportunities and always believed in my potential, even when I doubted myself. Your love and guidance have been the bedrock of my success.

To my amazing spouse and children, thank you for your patience, understanding, and endless love. You have been my sanctuary, my source of joy and laughter, and my motivation to be the best version of myself. I know that the long hours and the time spent away from home have not been easy, but your support and encouragement have meant the world to me.

I also want to express my deepest gratitude to my mentors and colleagues who have shaped my professional journey. To my high school science teacher, Mr. Johnson, thank you for igniting my passion for research and encouraging me to pursue my dreams. Your belief in me set me on a path that has led me to this incredible moment.

To my graduate advisor, Dr. Patel, thank you for your guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support. You challenged me to think critically, pushed me to explore new ideas, and helped me navigate the complexities of academia. Your mentorship has been invaluable, and I am forever grateful.

To my colleagues and collaborators, both past and present, thank you for your dedication, expertise, and camaraderie. Science is a collaborative endeavor, and I have been privileged to work alongside some of the most brilliant minds in our field. Your contributions have been essential to the breakthroughs we have achieved, and I share this recognition with each and every one of you.

I also want to acknowledge the institutions and organizations that have supported my research over the years. To the University of Innovation, thank you for providing an environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and excellence. Your commitment to advancing knowledge and serving the community is truly inspiring.

To the funding agencies and foundations that have generously supported my work, thank you for your trust and investment in our research. Your support has been crucial in enabling us to pursue bold ideas, take risks, and push the boundaries of what is possible.

As I accept this award, I am reminded of the profound responsibility that comes with it. As scientists, we have the power to shape the future, to unlock the mysteries of the universe, and to make a positive impact on society. We must use this power wisely, with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to the greater good.

To the young scientists and aspiring researchers out there, I want to leave you with a message of hope and encouragement. The path ahead may be challenging, but it is also filled with incredible opportunities. Embrace your curiosity, follow your passion, and never stop learning. Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you, and always remember that your unique perspective and experiences are valuable.

Science is not just a career; it is a calling. It is a chance to make a difference, to push the boundaries of human knowledge, and to create a better world for generations to come. As we move forward, let us do so with courage, compassion, and a deep commitment to the pursuit of truth.

Once again, thank you for this incredible honor. I am deeply grateful and humbled, and I promise to continue striving for excellence in all that I do. Together, let us continue to explore, discover, and make a lasting impact on the world.

Commentary: This long award acceptance speech is ideal for prestigious awards ceremonies where the recipient has made significant contributions to their field. It weaves together personal anecdotes, acknowledges key individuals and institutions, and ends with a powerful message of responsibility and hope for the future.

Lengthy Award Acceptance Speech Example

As I stand before you today, accepting this incredible honor, I am overwhelmed with a profound sense of gratitude, humility, and reflection. This moment marks the culmination of a journey that began many years ago, a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and the unwavering support of an extraordinary community.

I want to start by expressing my deepest appreciation to the esteemed committee for recognizing my work and bestowing upon me this prestigious award. Your acknowledgment of my contributions to the field of medical research is truly humbling, and I am honored to be counted among the remarkable individuals who have received this distinction before me.

To my family, who have been my rock and my guiding light throughout this journey, I owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude. Mom and Dad, your love, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in me have been the foundation upon which I have built my life and career. You instilled in me the values of hard work, perseverance, and compassion, and taught me that with dedication and a strong moral compass, no dream is too big to achieve.

To my siblings, thank you for being my constant source of laughter, support, and inspiration. Your own achievements and the way you have navigated life’s challenges have been a testament to the power of resilience and the unbreakable bond of family.

To my amazing spouse, words cannot express the depth of my love and appreciation for you. You have been my partner, my confidant, and my unwavering supporter through the long hours, the setbacks, and the triumphs. Your patience, understanding, and sacrifice have made this journey possible, and I share this honor with you.

I also want to take a moment to acknowledge my incredible team of researchers, scientists, and collaborators. Each of you has played an integral role in the groundbreaking work that we have accomplished together. Your dedication, expertise, and tireless pursuit of knowledge have been the driving force behind our success. I am honored to work alongside such brilliant and passionate individuals who share a common goal of advancing medical science and improving the lives of others.

To the institutions that have supported my research, including the University of Hope and the Global Health Initiative, thank you for providing the resources, infrastructure, and intellectual community that have been essential to our work. Your commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration has created an environment where groundbreaking discoveries can flourish.

I also want to express my gratitude to the patients and families who have been at the heart of our research. Your bravery, resilience, and willingness to participate in our studies have been a constant source of inspiration and motivation. Your stories and experiences have fueled our determination to find answers, to develop new treatments, and to bring hope to those facing the most challenging of circumstances.

As I reflect on the path that has led me to this moment, I am reminded of the mentors and teachers who have shaped my journey. To Dr. Patel, my undergraduate research advisor, thank you for seeing potential in a curious young student and nurturing my love for scientific inquiry. Your guidance and encouragement set me on a path that has been filled with purpose and discovery.

To Dr. Chen, my doctoral supervisor, thank you for challenging me to think critically, to question assumptions, and to push the boundaries of what is known. Your mentorship and unwavering support have been instrumental in my growth as a scientist and as a person.

As I accept this award, I am acutely aware of the profound responsibility that comes with it. The field of medical research is one that holds the power to transform lives, to alleviate suffering, and to bring hope to those who are most in need. It is a field that demands the highest levels of integrity, ethics, and compassion.

To the aspiring scientists and researchers in the audience today, I want to leave you with a message of encouragement and inspiration. The path ahead may be challenging, but it is also filled with incredible opportunities to make a difference in the world. Embrace your curiosity, follow your passion, and never stop asking questions. Surround yourself with mentors, collaborators, and a community that uplifts and inspires you. And always remember that your unique perspective and experiences are valuable assets in the pursuit of knowledge.

As we move forward, let us do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a deep commitment to the greater good. Let us continue to push the boundaries of medical science, to collaborate across disciplines and borders, and to work tirelessly towards a future where health and well-being are accessible to all.

Once again, thank you for this incredible honor. I am deeply grateful and humbled, and I promise to use this recognition as a catalyst for even greater discoveries and advancements in the field of medical research. Together, let us continue to strive for a world where the power of science is harnessed for the benefit of all humanity.

Commentary: This lengthy award acceptance speech is suitable for prestigious awards in fields such as science, medicine, or academia, where the recipient’s work has had a significant impact on society. The speech delves into personal anecdotes, acknowledges mentors, collaborators, and institutions, and emphasizes the responsibility that comes with the recognition. It also includes a powerful call-to-action for aspiring scientists and researchers.

An award acceptance speech is a unique opportunity to express gratitude, share your journey, and inspire others.

By writing a speech that combines personal anecdotes, heartfelt acknowledgments, and a powerful message, you can create a memorable moment that resonates with your audience and celebrates your achievements.

Remember, the key to a great acceptance speech is authenticity.

Speak from the heart, acknowledge those who have supported you, and use your platform to make a positive impact.

Whether your speech is short and sweet or lengthy and profound, the most important thing is to stay true to yourself and the values that have guided your success.

We hope these award acceptance speech examples have provided you with inspiration and guidance as you prepare for your own moment in the spotlight.

Congratulations on your well-deserved recognition, and best of luck delivering a speech that will be remembered for years to come!

What Not to Do If You Win an Oscar

A Hollywood speechwriter on what makes for a great—or a terrible—moment at the mic

The moment an artist wins an Oscar or a Grammy or a Tony, they are handed two things: some kind of statue (sure, nice) and, perhaps more important, 45 seconds—maybe a minute, two tops—of live, relatively unbridled stage time with millions of people watching. They can use that time however they choose, thanking their parents, thanking their agents, thanking God, advocating for causes, crying. After that the music will play.

Wendy Shanker is a writer with a niche skill: She helps celebrity clients draft acceptance speeches so that they can maximize these high-adrenaline, high-profile moments.

Shanker told me that she once found herself moved to tears when a client seemed to be forgoing the drafted speech in favor of something else—only to suddenly realize that Shanker herself had in fact written the words in question. “She’s such a phenomenal actress that I didn’t even recognize my own writing,” Shanker said.

Ahead of this weekend’s Oscars, Shanker and I caught up by phone to discuss the art of acceptance speeches (keep the thank-you list short, she says) and her biggest pet peeve (reading off a phone).

Our conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity.

Caroline Mimbs Nyce: Let’s pretend you get hired by a new A-list client tomorrow. Walk me through your process.

Wendy Shanker: My process is to try and do a lot of research and to get to know that person’s voice as well as I can before I actually connect with them directly. So I’m reading interviews and watching videos. The best is when I do get to work directly with that client as opposed to going through a publicist or a manager. Just even having a really brief conversation with somebody, I can really hear really, really quickly what it is that they want to say and the voice that they want to say it in. And I can also provide a little bit of guidance to them on what might work and what might not work.

A good example of this would be I wrote an acceptance speech—this wasn’t a televised show; this was a private event. A woman was being honored, and her team had said, “Look, whatever you do, don’t talk about her mother.” Her mother is also famous. “Don’t make this about her mother.” I went, “Okay, okay, okay.” And then I got 10 minutes with my client on the phone. And the first thing she said is, “I really just wanted to talk about my mother.”

Read: The speeches that saved the Golden Globes

Nyce: Do you think they were trying to keep her from it?

Shanker: I don’t think they were trying to keep her from it. I just think nobody knows the heart and soul of what that person wants to say in the moment except for that person.

Nyce: Do you ever get intervening agents telling you, “Don’t let them say that. Cut that line”?

Shanker: Yeah, that happens a lot. Most representatives are trying to protect their clients. But a lot of what I do is get this very busy person to focus in on this thing they know is coming and haven’t really thought about. Just like any of us lowly humans, they procrastinate. The conversation with me gives them time to shut out all the other noise and focus on What is it that I really want to say?

Nyce: About how long are acceptance speeches usually?

Shanker: It depends on the show. For a network show that’s airing live, the time is tight; it is 45 seconds or 60 seconds. While the person on the stage is accepting the honor, there are the producers backstage trying to figure out how long they’re going to let them talk. Maybe it says 45 seconds on the clock, but if you’re saying something really good or you’re a legend in the industry, they’re going to let you go a little longer. I’ll also say from the producing side of it that nobody ever wants to cut anybody off.

A lot of people don’t want to prepare because they think they’re going to hex it. And I would like to congratulate anybody who thinks they have the magical-thinking power to win or lose an Oscar by preparing a speech or not preparing a speech.

Nyce: How much can you fit into 45 seconds?

Shanker: I advise clients to have one central thought, especially one that could be connected to your performance or your album or the theme of the project that you were in—something that speaks to a social or cultural issue connected to the work that you are being honored for.

I really, really encourage people to limit the thank-you list. If there’s one special thank you that you want to give out—to your parents or to your fifth-grade theater teacher or to the real-life person whom you were portraying on screen—great! But we don’t need to hear about your agent’s assistant’s assistant’s Uber driver. If you are going to go the list way, write them down, practice it, get everybody in there. “Oh, I’m going to forget somebody!” I should never hear that from you onstage.

Read: My favorite awards-season ritual

Nyce: This gets at the question of “Who are award speeches for?” The people in the room or the audiences at home?

Shanker: We all know that the numbers of people watching awards shows are sinking. And I think that’s because we have so much access to a lot of these people that we laud all the time. The Oscars might have been the only time in a year when I would get to hear Barbra Streisand say something. But now Barbra’s tweeting.

I think people get excited about the pageantry of it. I think people still get excited about films and albums and Broadway shows that mean something to us and mean something to the culture, that give us something that we didn’t have before.

And there’s still so much coverage of these shows. We get excited when our beloved film wins and frustrated when it goes the wrong way. So they continue to have a lot of cultural worth, even if they’re losing the numbers.

Nyce: What have you noticed about the acceptance speeches this season? Are there any that have stood out to you?

Shanker: I do think there’s real joy in seeing people who have been in the industry for a long time and haven’t been recognized speak. Ke Huy Quan has this amazing comeback story, and that’s what a lot of his speeches have centered on. Michelle Yeoh is talking about inclusion and representation in a really wonderful way. It’s thrilling and exciting to hear Jamie Lee Curtis say , “I’m 64, and this is just amazing.” Sheryl Lee Ralph bursting into song —completely memorable. Watching Jennifer Coolidge get a lot of awards in this cycle has been super fun because she’s another person who’s worked for decades in an industry that hasn’t always been kind and generous to her or to her talent. When she’s up there, I think she’s being very genuine, and she’s also savvy about giving the audience what they want.

Nyce: What are some of your acceptance-speech pet peeves?

Shanker: My No. 1 pet peeve is going onstage with your cellphone. To me, it just seems unprepared and casual; it doesn’t step up to the intensity and honor of the moment.

The other thing that really bugs me is false humility. When people approach and go, “I just didn’t think I’d … Who, me?” It’s like, You were nominated. You campaigned for it. You’ve spent months wining and dining and talking to people. You’ve been standing in front of a mirror with a hairbrush since you were 4 years old. This is not a shock. Humility is wonderful, but false humility is annoying.

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It worked for... Julia Roberts, Best Actress, ‘ Erin Brockovich ’, 2001

‘Like me! Like me!’ Cloying and annoying, the worst acceptance speeches try really hard. Points to Julia Roberts, who doesn’t go for in for gushy or hyperventilating. No one looks more like a vintage Hollywood movie star. But crucially, Roberts also comes across as a fully paid-up human being.

That smile sets her off laughing, and she tells the conductor to sit down so he can’t cut her off with the orchestra: ‘I may never get the chance to be here again.’ Goofy and funny, she’s exactly like her character in ‘ Pretty Woman ’. Standing there, hand on hip, she’s having the time of her life. Watch to the end for her ecstatic: ‘I love it up here!’

How to give an Oscar speech

We’ve scoured the best Oscar acceptance speeches to come up with ten winning ways to accept a gold statuette in front of an audience of millions

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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If You Had a Platform Like the Oscars, What Would You Say?

by Monica M. Clark | 10 comments

Did you watch the Oscars last night?

I did. And before that I watched a documentary on the history of the Oscars on Netflix. So it’s safe to say I listened to a lot of Oscar speeches yesterday.

We all know about the music that subtly ushers winners off stage when they talk too much, but if you think about it, Oscar winners are given a minute to give a speech about  anything  AND to have millions and millions of people listen. Oscar speeches are powerful.

Examples of Great Oscar Speeches

Some winners, like John Legend and Julianne Moore, use the Oscar platform to highlight important themes in the movie they represent:

“ Nina Simone said it's an artist's duty to reflect the times we're in. Selma is now because the struggle for justice is right now.” – John Legend, 2015

“ So many people who have this disease feel marginalized. People who have Alzheimer's disease deserve to be seen so we can find a cure. ” – Julianne Moore, 2015

Others view the platform as a chance to embrace the artistic community:

“ There are sixty thousand actors in this Academy…and to that artistic family that strives for excellence, none of you have ever lost and I am proud to share this with you. And I thank you. ” – Dustin Hoffman, 1980

Still others take the opportunity to make a political statement in their Oscar speeches:

“ I'm representing Marlon Brando this evening and he has asked me to tell you…that he very regretfully cannot accept this very generous award. And the reasons for this being are the treatment of American Indians today by the film industry… ” – Sacheen Littlefeather, 1973

“ To every woman who gave birth, to every taxpayer and citizen of this nation, we have fought for everybody else’s equal rights, it’s our time to have wage equality once and for all, and equal rights for women in the United States of America. ” – Patricia Arquette, 2015

What Would You Say In Your Oscar Speech?

We writers often hear about the importance of building a platform, but what will you say when you have one?

What would you do if it was ridiculously large like an opportunity to give an Oscar speech?

Would you use your platform to inspire other writers? To shed light on a political issue? To share your passion for 90s music, the Yankees or Picasso?   Tell us in the comments !

Take fifteen minutes to write an acceptance speech for a highly influential award that you won for your current project. Share in the comments section !

Monica M. Clark

Monica is a lawyer trying to knock out her first novel. She lives in D.C. but is still a New Yorker. You can follow her on her blog or on Twitter (@monicamclark).

10 Comments

I would like to thank the makers of this gorgeous gown, who not unlike the designer-blatantly inspired by others, did not create this masterpiece alone. No, the people who harvested the silk from the worms who died so that their silk could contribute to the threads that make up this lovely cloth. No my little friends, your sacrifice was NOT in vain! Not to leave out the divers, nor the 6000 irritated oysters who painstakingly cultured the 6000 pearls prized out of their mouths only to be strung together by the bleeding hands of this diligent designer to create this glorious gown that you will see and photograph from every angle over the next few minutes and I will only wear once. Yes, you unsung people, this award is for you, too!

I want to thank my producer and director for choosing my Agatha Award-winning and Newbery children’s mystery to put on the screen for a family audience. She made me proud of my novel which I created from dreams of publishing a title literary children would feel reached them. I wanted to join the ranks of classic children’s writers including modern classic novelists such as Patricia Polacco, Karen Cushman, E. L. Konigsberg, Katherine Paterson, and Priscilla Cummings, some of my many literary heroes. Thank you to my late parents who encouraged me to read even when I did not finish my homework. I wanted to be a star in my own play; now I have had the opportunity on this Oscar stage!

I’m with you, Monica, I was there all four hours of the Oscars last night and loved it (except for Birdman winning Best Pic — I enjoyed it and liked the artsy-ness of it, but I want my Best Pic to be more INSPIRING).

If I was winning for Best Screenplay (either original or from other works), I wouldn’t push another agenda. I would just thank the Academy for this incredible honor and remind people that the Arts matter. Bringing stories to life matters — whether it’s to entertain, educate, provoke or inspire. We shouldn’t never take that job for granted and we should always keep reaching for our dreams.

I could tolerate the speeches a little more if they weren’t so ignorant and uninformed….the .77 cents line has been overused and disproven many times over. She simply just regurgitated a White House talking point.

I don’t know if I would say they’re ignorant. Though that statistic is often presented incorrectly, women still face inequality in the workplace. Women are less likely to negotiate a higher starting salary then men. Women are more likely to take jobs that pay less. Perhaps their work is undervalued? Maybe they can’t get the higher paying jobs? It’s hard to say. There’s still a pay gap for the same work in many fields, for example female personal financial advisers earn 58 cents for every dollar men make.

Okay, I have NO IDEA what I’d say, but I’d love to hear a speech more along these lines….Hopefully this makes sense! Also, this would probably be way too long for an Oscar speech, but you could easily cut it down.

“I want to thank the Academy and the wonderful people who have helped me to get here and been my roots and my wings. This is such an honor and truly just being able to participate in this wonderful art form is such a high privilege to me. I am completely in awe of the many lives and people we honor through our films.

We make these movies and pretend that we know what costs they faced and what trials they went through to live such seminal lives or participate in such great movements, but we honestly have no idea. All we can do is stand in awe and appreciation of all they have done for us—the future generations. And I hope we can all take an important lesson from their examples. We are responsible for getting involved.

Whether you are raising children, fighting for social justice, working to improve the world, or working to fix broken governments and power structures, we all need to be involved. The lives worth living—the lives worth celebrating—are those lived by people who get involved. Your life will be defined by what you have worked towards. Fighting for a better tomorrow is always something worth celebrating and honoring.

When we make films we have a very limited amount of time to tell a huge story. We cannot address everything that has happened in someone’s life. We of necessity leave out certain details or parts of the story. Please do not think that those parts are not important. Everything that makes someone who they are is an important part of their story. Just as every person who makes a movement what it is becomes a key player.

I hope that those watching these films see that it is not only the man who leads the march that is worth revering. If all you can do is walk alongside carrying a sign you are still doing something worthwhile.

Whatever you can do to make the world better, you must do. It is part of the social contract that you will take the privileges and gifts given to you by the previous generation and pay it forward. Whatever you can do, you must. And there are still so many things to do to make this world wonderful for our children. From hunger, to discrimination, to health, to education, and on and on, every issue needs its own movement. I hope we can all take the examples from those whose stories we tell, and go forward creating stories that our children will be just as proud to tell tomorrow. Thank you.”

Well, first of all, I’d like to thank that one person who needed a break from everything and went to an old library with only one librarian. And I’d also like to thank that same person for going into the darkest corner and going to the old, dusty shelf only to find a book and deciding to try it. I’d like to thank you, even though I might never know who you are, for actually getting my book one faithful and dedicated reader.

I’d also like to thank my publishers, because that person would have never read that book without you. And thank you, Code-name Shy Girl, for helping me understand what it was like to have a quiet life, because I know my story wouldn’t be have as good without you.

I guess I’d also like to thank my mother. Thanks for putting up with my constant locking myself in my room and doing nothing for a few hours except listen to music and type. This book would have never have been finished otherwise.

Thank you J.K. Rowling for getting me to read more books. I would have never been interested in words without the magical world of Harry Potter. And thank you Agatha Christie, for teaching me to focus on dialogue and plot twists. Thank you Marissa Burt, because I feel StoryBound now. And thank you to all of those other writers whose names I can’t recall, because without you, I would never have found my voice in writing.

And thank you Joe Bunting, because your blog and your book really set everything in place for me.

And thanks for the Butterfly Effect, because with that theory, none of this speech would have really made sense!

Love this post, Monica. Great topic. I’m not able to create a speech right now, but I’ll have fun swirling this challenge around in my mind, exploring the possibilities (and designing the dress).

I want everyone to know that the Cabal and their Illuminati who control Hollywood are on their way down. Soon they will be gone. We will then have access to art of all forms by the most talented people on Earth. No more mediocre movies, canned music or books for adults at the level of a 5th grader. The sheeple will awaken. We will all be intelligent beings again. Our true history will be told, and all the ancient artifacts removed from the coffers of Smithsonian, Yale and the like. All government will be of, by, and for the People. Soon we will need neither governments nor money. We will know that we’re facets of the Source, and we will live like it.

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How to Write an Acceptance Speech

Last Updated: March 21, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham and by wikiHow staff writer, Kyle Hall . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,105,611 times.

When you win an award or honor, it's traditional to share a few words. Writing an acceptance speech can be challenging, so it helps to brainstorm and prepare in advance. You should open your speech with a brief introduction of gratitude, move on to thanking your benefactors, and conclude your speech with some inspiration and optimism. This is your time to shine, but showing humility will leave your audience feeling truly pleased for you and your success.

Brainstorming Ideas

• After you make an initial list of people you want to thank, walk away and come back to the list later. There might be people you forgot to include that you'll remember at a later time.
• If you're worried about leaving someone important out of your speech, ask a close friend or coworker to help with your list. They might think of someone you forgot to include.

• For example, if you're receiving an award for your volunteer work, try searching “volunteer award acceptance speeches” in a search engine. If you're referencing speeches in a physical book, try to find a book that has the speeches organized by award type.

Writing Your Speech

• For example, you could write “I am so honored to be standing here today to receive this community leadership award. Serving my community has been a joy and a privilege that I am grateful for every single day. I wouldn't be able to do it if it weren't for all the amazing people in this city."

• You don't have to say someone's name to show you're thankful for them. For example, instead of thanking all of your coworkers individually, you could say “I can't express enough how grateful I am for all of my amazing colleagues.”
• You can thank the members of the organization giving you the award without listing off their names by saying something like “Thank you so much to the team at the New York Nonprofit Conference for recognizing me with this incredible award.”

• For example, if you're winning an award in recognition of your volunteer work with kids, you could mention how you think more work needs to be done to combat childhood illiteracy.
• Don't use your acceptance speech as a time to rant about your political viewpoints or talk heatedly about a controversial topic (unless it's directly connected to the award you're receiving). You'll likely alienate members of the audience and upset the organization that gave you the award.

Rehearsing Your Speech

• If there's someone mentioned in your speech that can't attend the event, invite them to practice with you. That way they get to hear your speech and you have someone to give you pointers.

• Notice how your voice sounds. Make sure you're speaking loud enough and that what you're saying is clear and understandable.

Writing Help

Community Q&A

• Make eye contact with members of the audience to appear more engaged. [11] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Bring a copy of your speech with you onstage. You might not need to use it, but it's helpful if you forget someone's name. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Avoid reading the copy of speech, but use notes and make sure to look up at the audience more tha you read what you write. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Avoid negative or apologetic statements during your speech. They can make you seem ungrateful. Thanks Helpful 10 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-prepare-an-accepta_b_9290348
• ↑ Lynn Kirkham. Public Speaking Coach. Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
• ↑ https://www.gvsu.edu/ours/oral-presentation-tips-30.htm
• ↑ https://professional.dce.harvard.edu/blog/10-tips-for-improving-your-public-speaking-skills/
• ↑ https://www.washington.edu/doit/presentation-tips-0

About This Article

To write an acceptance speech, start with a brief introduction that expresses your gratitude and makes a connection with your audience. Then, in the body of your speech, focus on the people that you want to thank. Try to avoid thanking too many people so your audience doesn't grow impatient by sticking with the people directly involved with the award and your immediate support system. Finally, conclude your acceptance speech on a brief, positive note and thank the audience one last time. To learn how to rehearse an acceptance speech, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Mastering award acceptance speeches: winning tips, winning tips for award acceptance speeches.

Winning an award is a great feeling, but it is only half the battle. The other half is delivering an acceptance speech that resonates with your audience and makes them feel connected to you. Crafting an inspiring speech requires careful thought and planning, as well as practice and rehearsal . In this blog, we will explore the key elements of an effective award acceptance speech, including storytelling, humor, and balance. We will also discuss practical tips for delivering your speech with confidence and managing stage presence. Lastly, we will touch upon common pitfalls to avoid while giving an acceptance speech. By the end of this blog, you will have all the tools you need to write and deliver a winning award acceptance speech that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Understanding the Importance of an Award Acceptance Speech

An award acceptance speech, whether at the Oscars or the Golden Globes, serves as a platform to express gratitude and humility. When crafted well, it leaves a positive impact on the audience and provides an opportunity to thank specific individuals. Keeping the speech concise and impactful is key, with elements of gratitude, congratulations, and humility. Standing behind the lectern, like Oprah does, can add gravitas to your words and enhance the overall impact of your speech.

The Impact of a Well-Delivered Speech (even if you’re not Oprah or giving on at the Oscars)

Crafting an impactful award acceptance speech goes beyond words; it’s about engaging the audience on a deeper level. Maintaining consistent eye contact establishes a connection, allowing the speaker to convey sincerity and confidence. Integrating storytelling into the speech captivates the audience, leaving a memorable impression and evoking emotions. Examining speech examples from events like the Oscars and the Golden Globes exemplifies the power of a well-delivered address. Adequate preparation and practice at the lectern are essential for a compelling delivery, as demonstrated by iconic figures such as Oprah Winfrey.

The Role of an Acceptance Speech in Building Your Image and Showing Gratitude

Crafting a compelling acceptance speech is more than just a formality; it plays a significant role in shaping one’s public image. An inspiring and impactful speech has the potential to enhance an individual’s reputation and add value to their persona. These speeches are not just routine events; they are celebrated and remembered, making them crucial opportunities for personal branding. Therefore, it is essential to devote ample time to the preparation and delivery of an acceptance speech, as it holds the power to leave a lasting impression on the audience and contribute to the overall public image.

Key Elements to Crafting an Inspiring Acceptance Speech

Crafting an inspiring acceptance speech involves understanding the purpose of the address, striking a balance between gratitude and inspiration, and managing stage presence. Using humor strategically can engage the audience, leaving them on a positive note. Incorporating storytelling and maintaining eye contact establishes a connection with the audience, creating a lasting impression. Additionally, considering the impact of the speech on one’s public image is crucial, as award acceptance speeches contribute significantly to an individual’s reputation, making them memorable in events like the Golden Globes and Oscars. Standing confidently at the lectern, akin to Oprah, can enhance the overall delivery, making the speech impactful and unforgettable.

Establishing the Purpose of Your Speech

Establishing the purpose of your speech is essential. It’s about expressing gratitude sincerely and inspiring others with humility. Acknowledging the support and contributions you’ve received sets the right tone for acceptance and gratitude, leaving a lasting impression. Crafting an award acceptance speech involves understanding the significance of conveying humility and gratitude. This purpose goes beyond winning awards; it’s about recognizing the impact of others in your journey.

Using Storytelling to Engage the Audience

Incorporating personal experiences can add relatability to an acceptance speech, engaging the audience on a deeper level. By infusing storytelling with emotions, an acceptance speech becomes more heartfelt and resonates with the listeners. Employing narrative techniques not only captivates the audience but also makes the speech memorable. A well-crafted acceptance speech often revolves around a personal story, drawing the audience into the speaker’s world. Engaging storytelling has the power to capture and hold the audience’s attention, leaving a lasting impression.

Balancing Humour and Seriousness

Balancing the light-hearted with the profound is key to crafting a compelling award acceptance speech. By infusing appropriate humor, you can create an uplifting atmosphere, engaging the audience and lightening the mood. On the other hand, integrating seriousness adds depth to the speech, making it impactful and resonant. The combination of humor and seriousness makes the speech dynamic, ensuring that it strikes the right balance between gravitas and lightheartedness. This balanced approach captivates the audience, leaving a lasting impression. When delivering your speech at events like the Golden Globes or Oscars, standing behind the lectern, you can take cues from renowned speakers like Oprah to master this art of balancing and keep your audience engaged throughout.

Practical Tips for Delivering an Award Acceptance Speech

Regular practice is crucial for delivering a powerful award acceptance speech. Managing stage presence and body language holds significant importance during the delivery. Additionally, practicing confident eye contact enhances the impact of the speech. Confidence and poise play a major role in effectively delivering an award acceptance speech. It requires substantial time for preparation to ensure a polished delivery. Incorporating personal anecdotes can make an acceptance speech relatable. Balancing humor and seriousness adds depth to the speech, creating a dynamic and impactful delivery. Engaging storytelling techniques can make the speech memorable and capture the audience’s attention.

Importance of Regular Practice

Regular practice plays a significant role in boosting confidence when delivering an acceptance speech. It ensures a polished and refined delivery, reducing the risk of nervousness. Consistent practice is essential for achieving an impactful speech delivery, refining the nuances of the speech. Through regular practice, speakers become better equipped to engage with the audience effectively. The thorough rehearsal of an acceptance speech leads to a more confident and compelling delivery, enhancing the overall impact of the speech. By dedicating time to regular practice, speakers can refine their skills and master the art of delivering an award acceptance speech seamlessly.

Managing Stage Presence and Body Language

A well-delivered award acceptance speech relies heavily on effective stage presence and body language. Mastering these elements enhances the impact of the speech and creates a commanding presence on stage. Confidence in speech delivery is reflected through poised body language, conveying gratitude and confidence to the audience. It’s important to convey genuine emotions through body language and maintain a strong presence at the lectern. The ability to effectively manage stage presence and body language is essential in delivering a memorable and impactful acceptance speech.

What to Avoid While Giving an Award Acceptance Speech?

To deliver an impactful award acceptance speech, avoid rambling and keep it concise. Instead of reading a long list, make eye contact with your audience. Thank event organizers, nominators, and those who supported you. End on a positive note to leave a lasting impression.

Overcoming Common Pitfalls in Award Acceptance Speeches

Overcoming common pitfalls in award acceptance speeches involves thorough preparation and genuine delivery. Practicing acceptance speech examples is essential for readiness, while ensuring that the speech remains heartfelt and not rehearsed. Additionally, incorporating humor, when suitable, can captivate the audience’s attention and create a memorable experience. Structuring the speech with a compelling opening further engages the audience, setting the tone for the rest of the speech. Drawing inspiration from award acceptance speeches on platforms like YouTube can provide valuable insights. By implementing these strategies, speakers can navigate common pitfalls and deliver impactful award acceptance speeches.

In conclusion, delivering an award acceptance speech is an opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your audience. It is important to understand the significance of this moment and how it can contribute to building your image. A well-delivered speech has the power to inspire and engage the audience through effective storytelling and a balance of humor and seriousness. To ensure a successful speech, regular practice is key, along with managing stage presence and body language. It is also important to avoid common pitfalls such as going off-script or being overly self-centered. By following these winning tips, you can deliver an award acceptance speech that leaves a lasting impact.

Short Award Acceptance Speech Examples: Inspiring Examples

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5 Tips to Give the Perfect Award Acceptance Speech

• James Haynes
• September 19, 2022

Table of Contents

Introduction.

Congratulations! You’ve won an award. Maybe you’ve been selected for the prestigious  National Speakers Association’s Speaker Hall of Fame . Maybe you’ve been named volunteer of the year for your local service club. Whatever you’ve won, now you may be wondering: how do I give an award acceptance speech? what kind of a speech am I supposed to give? Where can I find award acceptance speech examples ? How do I make sure my speech is memorable in a good way?

Maybe you’ve never given a speech before, and after toiling for years far from the spotlight, being put on stage is a nerve-wracking prospect for you. One of the best ways to minimize those nerves is to do your homework beforehand so you know exactly where you’re going with your talk, and reading this article is a great start! (For more on managing  nerves when you speak, check out this episode of The Speaker Lab podcast .)

Even if you’re a seasoned speaker, the structure and format of an award acceptance speech may not be what you are used to. To master the shortened format and time limits you may have, you’ll need to structure your speech in a more specialized way. For more on how to do so, read on.

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Determine the goal of your speech

First of all, what is the goal of your acceptance speech? The starting point for most, if not all, acceptance speeches, should be a humble “thank you” for whatever they have received. It may also be appropriate to highlight particular experiences or individuals who helped you to get where you are. But this can be overdone; fake modesty and a long list of thank-yous to people the audience doesn’t know can cause your audience to tune out just as much as a braggy or even vindictive diatribe. How do you strike the balance?

One way to start could be watching others’ acceptance speeches, and ideally not just speeches from the Academy Awards. Award acceptance speech examples can be found on Youtube, Vimeo, and other video-sharing sites. Learn from others but don’t mimic – You’ve probably watched a lot of speakers before haven’t you? You know the things they do that work. It’s easy to want to just duplicate what you saw them do since you know it works. But don’t do that. Learn from why it worked and how you can incorporate a similar (but not copied) methodology into your own talks.

Structuring your speech

Another tip: figure out from the event organizer what the time restrictions are for your talk. You don’t want to plan a 20-minute overture when the event organizers expect you to speak for just a minute or two! This will also set the tone for your talk.

Remember that your speech is supposed to be  shorter  than your typical speech. You shouldn’t have that much to write out. Once you’ve determined a few people you’d like to thank, maybe a story you’d like to tell, and determined the overall goal or vibe of your talk, you should start structuring your speech.

Perhaps you could begin by breaking down your speech into a few sections. For example, you could structure the speech as follows: Introduction, thanking a few specific people, telling a story or an anecdote, and conclusion. This should all take no more than 3-5 minutes. And it will  fly by .

Consider telling stories

Want to tell a story in your acceptance speech? It’s a good idea. Humans relate to stories. We connect to stories. Funny stories. Sad stories. Inspirational stories. We love stories. So tell them. Lots of them. Stories will keep your audience engaged and are also easier for you to memorize.

There’s nothing wrong with telling a 3rd person story or using some case study or example. But especially for an award you’re receiving, telling a story that you lived and experienced generally makes the story better for you and the audience. For the audience, they can oftentimes find themselves in your story. For you as the speaker, it’s much easier (and more powerful) to tell a story that you lived versus one you read in a book.

What kind of story to tell

In an award acceptance speech, any such story should be short and sweet. One way to keep an eye on the length is to try timing yourself telling the story out loud. As Harriet Turk discusses in our  podcast on creating your talk , “If you practice out loud, you learn a whole lot more about what the story hits on and what parts need to be told.” Turk goes on to say that sometimes we find that we try to tell a story the way we wrote it, but authoring a story is much different than presenting a story. A story that reads well in a book may not work as well on stage.

Some examples of stories or anecdotes that you could do well to include would be about a setback you overcame in your role, or how someone helped you in a particularly meaningful way. If that person who helped you is one of those you want to thank, it would serve as an incredibly powerful testament to their character to include such a story. Of course, if something about that story is sensitive, it would be prudent to notify them in advance that you plan to tell that story. Even if not, it could be polite to give them a heads-up, particularly if they will be in the audience for your acceptance speech.

Using humor: advantages and pitfalls

You might wonder whether or not humor is appropriate in an award acceptance speech. Generally, humor is not a bad thing to include if you want to liven up your talk. However, keep in mind that you are being spotlighted as an individual accomplishing something in an award acceptance speech, and harsh joking about other people, in particular, may reflect poorly on your deserving the award. Negative jokes about the organizer, your collaborators, or others in the audience are no-nos.

On that point, as we cover in our 100 speaking tips article,  you don’t need to be crude or inappropriate just for a laugh. It’s not worth it. If you deliver a killer keynote and are flawless throughout, but you make one inappropriate remark, nobody will remember anything else you said. There’s nothing wrong with using humor or making a strong point on something, but don’t do it at the expense of crossing the line and turning people off.

On the other hand, a dash of humor, such as light self-deprecation, can be perfectly good at keeping your speech from sounding sanctimonious or stuffy. When you tell a joke or deliver a punchline, give the audience time to laugh. Sometimes speakers like to rush to the next point, but don’t do that. You need to give the audience a chance to respond to what you just said (in this case to laugh), but also if you rush on to the next thought while the room is still laughing, nobody will hear what you’re saying.

Practice makes perfect

You’re not going to have a Powerpoint. You’re probably not going to have any visual aids. So how are you going to stay focused and find cues for your award acceptance speech?

Consider writing your speech out and timing yourself to ensure you don’t go way over any time allotments you might have. And if you don’t have time limits, consider your audience – they will almost certainly tune out after 15+ minutes of seemingly-endless acknowledgments…

Remember: Professional speakers don’t just make stuff up. They don’t write a few thoughts on a notecard and then shoot from the hip for an entire presentation. They take the time to write and carefully craft their material.

As Harriet Turk discusses in our  podcast on creating your talk , bullet points can be one way to succinctly outline a talk in a way that you can rely on, even when you’re on stage and nervous. “Bullets are easy because they trigger what it is that you’re really wanting to do,” she said, “Whereas if you write it out and then you memorize it, you could have stage fright , or you’ve practiced it so much that you get to a point that you’re nervous and you forget.”

Although you shouldn’t just be reading from a page the whole time, writing out specific names of people you want to thank can help keep you from forgetting anybody.

When you’re on stage

So you’ve written, practiced, and are headed to your acceptance speech venue to give your killer talk. What should you remember when you’re standing on the stage?

As we outline in our 100 speaking tips piece,  remember that on stage, you can be an amplified version of yourself. The bigger the venue, the bigger you need to be on stage. The way you would communicate to a group of 10 people is very different than how you would need to communicate to a room of 10,000. Both should be an authentic version of you, but simply amplified to the setting. The bottom line is don’t try to be something you’re not on stage. Be you.

Keep it slow and steady. When you are talking really fast, it becomes difficult for the audience to follow. It’s hard to keep up and process. Plus the faster you talk, the harder it is to understand what you’re saying. So slow down and enunciate. Give the audience the chance to keep up with where you’re going.

Don’t be afraid of the silence. Silence, to a speaker, can feel deafening but it can be powerful. Silence shows confidence that you’re in control of the talk and the room and you’re continuing to guide them towards a common purpose. When you make a strong point, don’t rush to the next line. Stop and let it hang there. The silence is your friend.

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All in all, giving an award acceptance speech is a great opportunity to practice your speaking skills while simultaneously a big honor! Whether you’re an experienced speaker or haven’t given one for years, these tips and processes can help you conceive of, outline, and deliver an awesome acceptance speech.

If you found this piece helpful, we have a  great podcast with Grant Baldwin on how to create your talk.  He tells us how he prepares for talks, what makes a talk good versus another talk, and what types of structures you can use to organize your content. You can listen to this  podcast on creating a talk here . Want to read more about speaking tips? Take a look at our  100 tips for motivational speaking for any speaking engagement ! Happy speaking!

• Last Updated: May 7, 2024

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14 Gentlemanly Ways to Give an Oscars Acceptance Speech

After his inspirational bongo/spoken-word acceptance speech at the Golden Globes, Matthew “Alright alright alright!” McConaughey has the whole world rooting for him to win best actor this Sunday—if only to see what coked-up cowboy riff he’ll lay down next. But really McConaughey is merely the latest in a proud lineage of notable gentleman’s speeches during awards season. It’s a perpetual conundrum for Hollywood’s leading men and power players: how do you keep your masculinity intact while overcome with vulnerable gratitude—in front of millions around the globe?! How some of the greats have handled it:

Jack Palance: The Man’s Man

Decrying Hollywood’s rampant ageism, Jack Palance mainlined a vein of pure machismo when he won Best Supporting Actor for City Slickers in 1991. Not only did he toss salty language around, but he demonstrated that he still had what it takes for any strenuous activity with his legendary one-armed push-ups. This speech was the swan song for a vanished breed of star.

Adrien Brody: The Heedless Lover

Traditionally, the previous year’s winner for Best Actress hands out the Best Actor Award. Since this is Hollywood, those tend to be some of the most beautiful women in the world. More than one winner has surely thought of stealing a conquering kiss, but only one did. Adrien Brody kicked off his win for The Pianist (2002) by daring to do what far many, many of us have longed to: making out with Halle Berry. Even Jack Nicholson was impressed.

**Joe Pesci: Short But Sweet

Pesci has pretty much defined the psychotic gangster role on the big screen, and when he won Best Supporting Actor for Goodfellas, you might have expected Pesci to unload on the camera. Instead, he kept it short and sweet with a simple, “It’s my privilege, thank you.” Classy and surprising. Though we suspect he might have beat a production assistant senseless with his Oscar backstage.

**Jim Carrey: The Shit Eating Grin

Before ripping on Shia LaBeouf this year, Jim Carrey was happy to mock himself at the Golden Globes. Winning Best Actor for The Truman Show, Carrey showed visible demonic glee at the thought he’d won an acting award. Carrey mocked his own filmography (Once Bitten and Earth Girls Are Easy), joked it would be hard talking out of his ass afterward, and then thanked “the Academy.” But his mile-wide smile made the speech far more infectious than obnoxious.

Cuba Gooding, Jr. :  The Touchdown Dance

Netting a supporting statue for Jerry Maguire in 1997, Cuba Gooding, Jr. ranks perhaps highest all-time for his pure, exuberant energy. Determined to give the ultimate shout-out to everyone from his wife to God to Tom Cruise, Gooding wouldn’t even let the Academy’s infamous orchestra play him off the stage. Shouting over the music as it crescendo-ed, Gooding earned a standing ovation and must have jumped on the stage. About the only thing he didn’t do was spike the Oscar.

**Brad Pitt: Cooler than Kaopectate

Have you ever seen Brad Pitt sweat? We certainly haven’t, not even when the golden god of Hollywood won his first (and to-date only) big acting award, Best Supporting Actor at the Golden Globes for Twelve Monkeys in 1996. Even when he jokes about anxiety, Pitt comes off as the coolest dude in the room; the first thing he did was thank the makers of Kaopectate. The room melted. Honestly, we can’t vouch for you at home to try this one—only Brad Pitt could get away with it.

Roberto Benigni: The Crazy European

Benigni’s star may have faded a bit with the years, but who can forget the night when the manic Italian took home not one, but two Oscars for Life is Beautiful? For the first award (Best Foreign Film), Benigni sputtered hilariously broken English and quoted Dante.  You’d think there’d be nothing left when he won Best Actor, but the actor reached deep inside to say he wanted to kidnap and make love to everybody in the room—as only a possibly crazy, drunk Italian could.

Ving Rhames: Genuine Class

The Golden Globes are less renowned for their classiness than their history of public intoxication. Leave it to Pulp Fiction’s Marsellus Wallace to bestow an unexpected dose of dignity. Winning Best Actor in a Mini-Series in 1998, Ving Rhames called up fellow nominee and screen legend Jack Lemmon, and gave Lemmon his award. A stunned Lemmon quipped, “I wish I could accept this, but I won’t.” But the earnest Rhames wouldn’t take it back. (The Hollywood Foreign Press later made him a duplicate statue.)

James Cameron: Heedless Pride

Okay, so this one’s not an actor, but it’s a classic: on the other side of the spectrum, no one’s ever accused James Cameron of excess modesty. But his directing Oscar for Titanic in 1998 capped off an incredible year where his dream project went from punch line to headline, setting a worldwide box office that would be surpassed only by Cameron himself. Titanic then tied Ben Hur for most Oscar wins. So, you can call it arrogant hubris, but when Cameron shouted he was king of the world, he wasn’t that far off.

Mickey Rourke: Brutal Honesty

In all the self-love of an acceptance speech, expletives and honesty usually take a back seat to joy. Not for Mickey Rourke: winning a BAFTA for The Wrestler in 2009, Rourke bluntly admitted to fucking up his career and then thanked his publicist for telling him “what to eat, what to dress, what to fuck.” Then he copped to enjoying watching his co-star Marisa Tomei without her clothes on. Finally, he dedicated his award to his friend, acting legend and hell-raising kindred spirit, Richard Harris. Standing o!

Colin Firth: Prince Charming

But the king of the BAFTAs would undoubtedly be Colin Firth. First nominated (at last) for A Single Man in 2010, Firth cheekily admitted that he was about to pass on the film, until the refrigerator repairman came and distracted him. Winning again the next year for The King’s Speech, Firth compared working with director Tom Hooper to a prostate exam. Maybe it’s the accent, but somehow Firth’s staid humor came off drier than a martini, and just as delicious.

Jack Nicholson: Success is the Best Revenge

Every acceptance speech by Jack Nicholson—and there have been quite a few—is characterized by its devilish charisma. But his first Oscar win for One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest remains the best speech, and a paragon of the form. Grinning as he poked a little fun at the Academy, Nicholson made sure to thank his agent who “ten years ago advised me that I had no ETC.” Smug, self-satisfied, 100 percent Jack.

**Gene Hackman: Genuine Emotion

It takes a strong man to cry, and they don’t get any stronger than Detective “Popeye” Doyle—the French Connection role in which Gene Hackman won his first Oscar in 1972. Hackman’s speech isn’t particularly funny or profound. But seeing a towering icon of American acting like Hackman choke back tears as he struggles to get through his words reminds you just how much an Oscar means to those lucky enough to win.

John Wayne: Act like a Son of a Bitch​

Way back when, before Marlon Brando sent a Native American actress to decline his Godfather Oscar, the Academy let proxies accept Oscars, and so John Wayne accepted Gary Cooper’s Oscar on his behalf for the classic High Noon. In his trademark, the Duke said a handful of nice things about his friend Cooper, then promised to rearend his agent’s Cadillac for not getting him the part. Of course, when Wayne finally won his Oscar for True Grit, he was a little more humble.

How to Give an Award Acceptance Speech

April 6, 2023

We’ve all done it—imagined giving an acceptance speech for winning gold in Olympic figure skating, Album of the Year, or a Nobel Prize. We’ve watched countless examples of award acceptance speeches that begin with I’d like to thank… Maybe you’ve even practiced this speech, teary-eyed in front of your mirror, thanking all the people who helped you get to where you are today.

While you might think that giving an acceptance speech at one of these prestigious award ceremonies is a pipe dream, it can’t hurt to be prepared. There are all kinds of organizations that put on award ceremonies to honor local businesses, changemakers, excellent students—there are even awards for safe driving. You name it, there’s a prize for it.

This article will discuss several key components of giving an award speech. These include:

• Famous examples of award acceptance speeches
• How to write an award acceptance speech
• Delivering your acceptance speech

By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to give a fantastic award acceptance speech in front of an audience (or just in the mirror).

Examples of Great Award Acceptance Speeches

Before you start putting together your own acceptance speech, find some that exemplify the genre of awards show speeches. These can serve as inspiration for your own acceptance speech. Here are a few from this year’s major awards shows that will go down in history as outstanding, unforgettable speeches, along with top keyword analysis courtesy of Yoodli .

Ke Huy Quan’s Acceptance Speech at the 2023 Academy Awards

Ke Huy Quan won Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars this year for his role in Everything Everywhere All at Once, a film that swept the awards show with seven wins in the directing, acting, and best picture categories. Quan’s most frequently used keywords, according to Yoodli’s speech analytics, include thank, brother, day, love, mom, and much .

Kim Petras’s Acceptance Speech at the 2023 Grammy Awards

On February 5th, 2023, Kim Petras made history by becoming the first transgender woman to win a Grammy. Yoodli’s AI speech coach identifies her top keywords from this speech as award, believed, transgender, hit, go, and home .

Beyoncé’s Acceptance Speech at the 2023 Grammy Awards

The 2023 Grammy Awards was a historic event across the board: on February 5th, 2023, Beyoncé made history as the most awarded artist in the history of the Grammy Awards. The Yoodli speech app identifies five top keywords from Beyoncé’s acceptance speech:  thank ,  like ,  beautiful ,  much , and  trying .

In all of these speeches, notice how top keywords reflect something about the speaker, their work, or the award they are receiving. Examining other successful speeches’ top keywords can help you when coming up with your own acceptance speech. Think about what keywords you want to feature when you accept your award.

Last but not least, there is, of course, Will Smith’s infamous award acceptance at the 2022 Oscars. This speech is not particularly noteworthy in itself—rather, it’s notorious because of what happened before Smith’s acceptance speech. We just couldn’t discuss well known award acceptances without mentioning The Slap.

How to Write an Award Acceptance Speech

How you structure your acceptance speech can differ depending on the event you’re speaking at. Some award shows have strict time limits for award acceptances. Luckily, you can avoid the embarrassment of orchestral music playing you off stage with some simple preparation. For that type of event, you need to prioritize people you want to acknowledge . Next, determine what keywords you want to feature during your speech. When writing your speech, you need to incorporate these people and keywords in as little text as possible.

Not all award ceremonies have such limited time slots, though. If you aren’t concerned about keeping your speech down to 45 seconds, you’ll have a bit more freedom in structuring your speech. Again, you should use keywords and significant people as the guideposts for structuring your script. One strategy you can use to fill the time and captivate your audience is incorporating anecdotes . One way to do this is thinking of a personal story that illustrates how someone helped you on your path to success. That person should be one of the people who contributed to your winning this award. An anecdote like this can serve both to acknowledge someone important to you and to share a more personal side of you with your audience.

The Bottom Line

Regardless of how much time you are allotted, the ability to express yourself concisely is essential when delivering a powerful speech. Tools like Yoodli ‘s AI speech coach are great resources for developing the skill of speaking as concisely as possible. Yoodli gives you automatic feedback on your use of fillers and redundant words. We often use unnecessary fillers without being conscious of them. This is why getting quantitative feedback— you used seven ums in your introduction —is a gamechanger. Minimizing repetition and filler words can not only help you deliver an excellent speech under a time crunch, but also make you a stronger speaker overall.

For most award ceremonies, you won’t need to completely memorize your speech; it’s perfectly acceptable to read from a notecard. However, memorizing a speech can help you deliver it to your fullest potential and reduce nerves. Check out our blog for advice on how to memorize a speech .

The difficulty in delivering one of these speeches is in finding the balance between confidence and humility. You need to be prepared, but not too prepared. If your speech isn’t well-structured and rehearsed, the audience might assume you don’t deserve the award. On the other hand, if your speech is too polished, you run the risk of coming off as arrogant, as if you knew you would win over the other nominees. There is a level of performance and theatricality required for this—maybe this is why great actors give such great acceptance speeches. You don’t have to be an award-winning thespian to find the balance between appearing confident and humble; all you need to do is prepare well and practice. Again, watching examples of famous award acceptance speeches is a great strategy for deciding how to deliver your speech.

A straightforward way to ensure you come across as humble is acknowledging your fellow nominees . For example, say a few words about how honored you feel to be in the same category as such inspiring people as (insert names here). However, there are many awards that only have one nominee. In this case, research the past recipients of the award. You can then express how honored you are to carry on their legacy.

Practice Makes Perfect

Once you’ve written your speech and contemplated how you want to deliver it, all that’s left to do is practice. Practicing a speech is all about becoming comfortable presenting it. The more at ease you are with your material, the more effectively you’ll be able to deliver it. The end goal is for you to feel 100% relaxed while giving your speech. While any amount of practicing will help you improve your delivery, there are three strategies you should implement to make your practice time worthwhile.

First, time your speech . You should always have a stopwatch or timer at hand during your practice sessions. This is to make sure that your speech fits into the time constraints of your award ceremony. Additionally, it helps you ensure your delivery is consistent—if your speech comes in at four and a half minutes one time you deliver it, and seven minutes the next time, something is wrong and you may have missed a section of your script. Every time you rehearse your speech, it should become more routine and feel more comfortable.

Second, you should record yourself practicing your speech. Practicing in front of a mirror is convenient, but it’s difficult to catch presentation pitfalls in the moment. This can more easily be accomplished by taking a video of yourself giving your acceptance speech and watching it back.

Third, it’s essential that you get feedback when you’re practicing. There’s only so much you can notice about your own speech patterns without getting an outside opinion. Recording your rehearsal sessions can make this process easier. If you have a video, you can send it to people in your circle and ask for their constructive criticism.

Finally, you can integrate these three strategies—timing your speech, recording yourself, and getting feedback—seamlessly into your practice time on Yoodli . Yoodli’s AI speech coach can not only time and record your speech for you, it also automatically provides a transcription. Getting feedback on a speech has never been easier: the AI-powered coach provides suggestions on your presentation, including your rate of eye contact, how concise your language is, and potential follow-up questions to your talk in a matter of seconds. Our platform also makes it easy to share recordings you make in the app with colleagues and friends to get their feedback.

In this article, we’ve discussed the ins and outs of giving an award acceptance speech. We covered famous examples of award acceptance speeches, writing a speech, and delivering it. We hope you feel prepared to graciously accept any award. Whether it’s a Pulitzer Prize or employee of the month, the next award you receive is an opportunity to dazzle the world with your elegance and humbleness. Now go out and get your EGOT.

Start practicing with Yoodli.

Getting better at speaking is getting easier. Record or upload a speech and let our AI Speech Coach analyze your speaking and give you feedback.

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A Helpful Guide to Nailing Your Oscars Acceptance Speech

The Oscars is trying it without a host this year , proving that even the Academy knows that after 91 years, it’s time for some change-ups. But while red carpet trends may come and go , there’s one awards show staple that we can always count on: the speeches.

The awards show acceptance speech is a historically hard one to truly perfect—not every attendee arrives prepared, for one thing—but when a good one is carried off, it’s really something to behold. As the founders of an international speech-writing service , we thought it would be a good time to provide a go-to guide to the art of the expertly delivered acceptance. (Even if you’re not nominated this year, who knows what the future will bring?) So without further ado, we’ve rounded up our favorites from Academy Awards history, all of which prove that whether you’re delivering a maid of honor toast or accepting a best picture trophy , there are certain speech-giving rules that will guarantee you a “standing O”—on whatever stage you find yourself.

Use the below historical Oscar moments as your guide to giving a great speech. And if all else fails? Keep it brief, keep it heartfelt, and, please, don’t forget to thank your family. (They won’t forget it.)

PRO TIP #1: HOOK THEM IN Shirley MacLaine, Best Actress for Terms of Endearment (1984)

Faced with a program that tends to run way too long, you’d better believe that the Academy producers are itching to hit that play-off music button, so there’s no time to waste. MacLaine does it right by coming out of the gate with a hysterical opening line—“I’m going to cry, because this show has been as long as my career”—that both breaks the ice, gets the audience on her side, and sets the tone for her whole speech. It’s also just self-deprecating enough that when she one-eightys at the end, clutching her Oscar and proclaiming she really deserves it, everyone, even her fellow nominees, cheer her on.

PRO TIP #2: SHARE THE AIR

John Legend and Common, Best Original Song, “Glory,” from Selma (2015)

It’s obvious Common and Legend have had lots of practice on award stages, because joint speeches are incredibly tough, and these two make it look easy. (It’s hard to know when to pick up the mic and when to hand it over, but they expertly planned it out.) The key: Even though there are two speakers, there’s one cohesive speech. Legend’s portion builds off of Common’s, culminating in a poignant tearjerker. Not even John Travolta’s bizarre amount of face touching could bring it down.

PRO TIP #3: KEEP IT SHORT AND SWEET Julie Andrews, Best Actress for Mary Poppins (1965)

It may be the most tried tip in speech-giving history, but it’s also the truest: When in doubt, just keep it short and sweet. Andrews’s 1965 best actress speech clocks in at just about 30 seconds, managing to both leave the audience wanting more without skimping on the sentiment. (She thanks the whole of America, which is actually a sort of genius method of ensuring you don’t forget any names or lose the crowd by rattling off every agent and manager and hairstylist and PA you’ve ever worked with.)

PRO TIP #4: EXPRESS YOURSELF Halle Berry, Best Actress for Monster’s Ball (2002)

In 2002, Berry became the first black woman to win the Academy Award for best actress, and while meeting that historic and overdue moment may have been daunting, she certainly brought it all: She communicates the magnitude of the moment, and makes us feel it, too, delivering poignant “thank yous” to the black actresses who came before her and paved the way. Even when the show’s producers try to count her off, her (appropriate) frustration is winning. She shakes her Oscar and shouts, “I’ve got to take this time—74 years here!” It culminates with Berry pumping her fist and jumping in the air. All of which remind us why she’s won best actress in the first place.

PRO TIP #5: STICK TO YOUR THEME Viola Davis, Best Supporting Actress for Fences (2017)

Before Davis even accepts her best supporting actress Oscar in 2017, the audience is already on their feet —Davis does her part by giving them good reason to stay there. Every good speech has one theme that’s woven throughout: Davis’s is about living. She explains that the stories she wants to tell belong to the people who came before her, whose lives were frequently ignored, saying: “I became an artist—and thank God I did—because we are the only profession that celebrates what it means to live a life.” And when she closes out her time, she returns to her theme, thanking her husband and daughter for teaching her every day how to live. It’s cohesive, and powerful, and it’s about something far bigger than an awards show—Oscar gold.

PRO TIP #6: GIVE THE PEOPLE WHAT THEY WANT Matthew McConaughey, Best Actor for Dallas Buyers Club (2014)

It’s important to remember that a good speech is not all about you. Consider the people in the room: What do they want to hear? How do they want to feel? It’s an easy, almost hokey trick, but McConaughey gives the people what they what when he closes his best actor speech with his iconic Fast Times at Ridgemont High tagline: “Alright, alright, alright.” As he holds his Oscar close, that line also serves to remind the audience just how far he’s come.

PRO TIP #7: TELL A STORY Jordan Peele, Best Screenplay for Get Out (2018)

Great speeches tell stories, and stories need a beginning, middle, and end. It’s no surprise that Peele, the winner for best screenplay, got that straight away. He starts off by setting the scene, admitting that he put down his pen nearly 20 times while writing Get Out , only to pick it up a 21st. The middle is all about the people who helped him create it. And the end is the resolution: victory. Peele also involves the audience, reminding everybody watching that everyone who bought tickets, told their friends—and screamed at the screen—is a part of this journey, too.

PRO TIP #8: NOVELTY OVER EVERYTHING Best Picture, Moonlight (2016)

When you’re delivering a speech, there are expected variables—bad lighting or play-off music or bored seat fillers—but we doubt the 2016 winners for best picture could have ever anticipated their names would be called halfway through someone else’s speech . So though novelty may not have not been Barry Jenkins and Adele Romanski’s original intention for their speech, it’s certainly something no one will ever forget. Despite the truly insane mix-up , they’re somehow able to fold in the drama without letting it overshadow their big moment. It’s the definition of a memorable moment that people will be talking about the next day—and isn’t that exactly what you’re hoping for ?

Marisa Polansky and Kristine Keller are the founders of Speech Tank , a global speech-writing service based in New York City.

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20 Best Oscar Speeches Ever

The feeling of winning and getting your name called out for an Oscar is indubitably the single most cherished memory and honor of an artist’s life. Striving everyday, being pervasively persistent on the road to the magnificent golden statue is what makes the winning memorable. And winning the trophy often evokes the truest of emotions, whose veracity is the most sanctimonious and pristine in the whole wide world. This has culminated in us witnessing superstars crying their heart out and losing all of their self-consciousness to just be free. The magnanimous platform often humbles the most taciturn of artists, and reiterates their belief in doing what they do. They also use this stage to profoundly express themselves and influence masses of the issues we as a society face. Right from race, politics and capitalism, to Mama June on a hot summer afternoon, the Oscars have seen it all.

There are a few, who aren’t liberated off their performances and image in the media, and come prepared, with a long litany of people to thank. And then there are some, who just enjoy the moment, and wing the whole thing as it were an SNL routine. Remembering these resonating and powerful acceptance speeches, the list envisages to mention some of these blithering addresses, which obliterate all the sense of being. Enjoy the list of the best and most iconic Oscar speeches ever. Happy Watching!

20. Tom Hanks (‘Philadelphia’)

Tom Hanks is one of the most lovable and relatable stars of the industry. His boy-next door charm and kind nature often manage to humble the sternest and uptight of people. He won his first ever Oscar for Jonathan Demme’s 1993 drama film, ‘Philadelphia’, which saw him play Andrew Beckett, a HIV patient whose homosexuality, ironically, is a cause of his insecurities and shame. He is eventually brought out in the limelight by his firm, who fire him for being an AIDS patient. Ridiculed and down-looked upon by the society, he endeavors to fight for himself and therein ensues one of the most endearing battle for justice in cinematic history. ‘Phialdelphia’ become one of the first mainstream movies to highlight the issue of HIV and homosexuality, and did so with maternal care and augmenting style. The tearful Hanks in the above video did accidentally let out two of his homosexual friends, who were still in the closet. But despite that, his powerful message to the world about AIDS and homosexuality made his Oscar acceptance speech one of the most iconic speeches of all time.

19. Sally Field (‘Norma Rae’)

The genius of Sally Field was obscure to my conscience until I witnessed her endearing performance as Ol’ Marry Todd (‘Hateful Eight’ reference) in the 2012 film ‘Lincoln’. Upon further viewings of her provocative performances, I stumbled upon ‘Norma Rae’ and was blissfully moved. No wonder she won the Oscar for her performance. During her acceptance speech, she reiterated the words ‘I like you’ from the movie and confused audiences with her cryptic yet evocative speech. Her child-like enthusiasm and lady-like manners make for an enjoyable watch.

18. Jack Palance (‘City Slickers’)

When a 60-year old man does one-arm superman push-ups, you are bound to have a complex, regardless your age. Such was the case with Jack Palace when he won the Oscar for Best Actor in Supporting Role for the 1992 film ‘City Slickers.’ His protracted repartee with the host Billy Crystal and his dazed and confused look, as what to do next, quickly became the highlight of the show. The hand-gestures, true confessions about the discrimination against the senior citizens of the society were truly heart-touching. “42 years later, you were right, you son of a bitch!” made my day!

17. Julia Roberts (‘Erin Brokovich’)

Julia Roberts is one of the prettiest and desired women in the world. People often misconstrue her good looks with her not being an able actor, and downsize her unblemished talent and ability to captivate audiences. She proved all the naysayers wrong with her Oscar winning performance in ‘Erin Brokovich’. And boy did she make it count! In her fun-filled and emotional address, she touched upon various subjects like her “sisterhood” with the fellow nominees and how her name, starting with an ‘R’ makes her last on every list.Her polite request and warning to the composer made us laugh our hearts out. “And sir, you are doing an amazing job, but you are so quick with the sticks, so why don’t you sit down, because I might never be here again.”

16. Michael Caine (‘The Cider House Rules’)

Sir Michael Caine is only one of the two actors (the other being Jack Nicholson) to have been nominated for an Oscar in every decade since 1960 to the 2000s. The mercurial actor has two Oscars to his name, the latter being  win for ‘The Cider House Rules’. Most prominently recognized for his distinctive working class cockney accent, the man is a legend. The rousing applause and congratulatory hugs from his fellow nominees showed what a reverential figure he is in the industry. What beckoned even more respect for the venerable actor, was his stand for changing “the winner is” to “the Oscar goes to”. Being humble in his win, and his acknowledging of the fellow performances of his nominated peers made this a truly iconic speech.

15. Gwyneth Paltrow (‘Shakespeare in Love’)

The sobbing acceptance speech is perhaps the most articulate and lucid Paltrow ever could have been. Crying rivers and sobbing incessantly, she made others shed tears and took the award to a rapturous and accepting crowd. Even though her performance might not have been the finest among the nominees to her own admission, Paltrow undoubtedly deserved to take the golden statue home. Her honest yet resonant words will forever remain etched into the memory of not just the hundreds present in the auditorium that day, but the millions watching her on TV.

14. Matthew McCaughaney (‘Dallas Buyers Club’)

Alright. Alright.Alright. There is no man more charismatic and easy-flowing as this guy in the industry. This unique blend of raw sexuality and religious solidarity is a blessing for the industry. The sprawling southern accent, which makes every word spoken like a pearl dropping out of his mouth, captivated us on that night. The amazingly well structured speech, which perhaps will give you new found strength to pursue your goals in life, encapsulated the spirit with which he lives his life. In a nutshell, it was simply outstanding.

13. Lupita N’Yongo (’12 Years a Slave’)

The Academy’s racist proclivities have been a topic of constant debates and discussions in recent times. Many have accused them of being partial and disregarding artist of color and their endearing performances. Well, the Academy wasn’t able to help itself but recognize and honor one of the most harrowing performances by an artist in recent times. Playing a slave cotton-worker in one of the numerous souther plantations in ’12 Years a Slave’, N’Yongo solidified her credentials in celluloid with her performance. The eloquent and gracious outfit, coupled with moving words about one of biggest atrocities against mankind, the speech resonated in the auditorium like a lion’s roar and will forever be ensconced in our memories.

12. Adrien Brody (‘The Pianist’)

Adrien Brody became the youngest actor to win an Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading role as Wladyslaw Spillzman, a simpleton musician who becomes a victim of religious persecution and probably the most brutal crime against humanity. The harrowing performance not only garnered universal critical praise, but also brought him under the scanner and into the eyes of global cinephiles. His scandalous smooch with Halle Berry will forever remain one of the most iconic moments in Oscar history. And as they say, “I bet they didn’t tell you this came in your gift basket.”

11. Joe Pesci (‘Goodfellas’)

“It’s my privilege. Thank you.” And like that, he was gone. At two seconds long, it remains the shortest ever Oscar acceptance speech, and doesn’t seem to be breached soon either.

10. Kate Winslet (‘The Reader’)

Kate Winslet is a thoroughly underrated actress in the industry. Her performances over the years have earned her a well deserved seven Academy nominations, also making her the youngest to do so. She was quickly descending into Meryl Streep territory until the elusive win for ‘The Reader’. The role of Hanna Schmitz, a former guard at a Nazi concentration camp, and a present defendant in a war-crimes trial, was tailor-made for the exuberant actress, and her scathing vulnerability on screen. She took us on a ride even your girlfriend couldn’t have taken you, with her tryst with relationships and tenoning grip on reality. A special moment for a special actress.

9. Patricia Arquette (‘Boyhood’)

Equality among both the genders has been an issue that has found its voice with many-a-great personalities of our time. A similar war was waged by Patricia Arquette in her Oscar acceptance speech for her performance in ‘Boyhood’. In a crisp and succinct address, she touched upon the issue of equality among women with wages in the industry. In a formidable baritone and firmness in her rights, she pointed out the fact how men in the industry are more valued with more recognition and higher wages. The speech remains a cornerstone for equality for women not only in the industry, but also various other fields in the world.

8. Leonardo DiCaprio (‘The Revenant’)

When it finally happened, it was worth it. The whole world cringed and rejoiced in profound happiness when Leonardo DiCaprio, perhaps the finest actor of our generation, won his first Oscar after a string of award-worthy nominations. His win was the most talked about piece of news among the masses, inspiring a hoard of caricatures and memes. But what stood out in his speech was the importance lent to one of the most bludgeoning issues at hand : global warming. His valiant defense of natives and their lands, along with an expedient urgency regarding climate change made him a stand out among his peers in being a responsible citizen. He has since been an ambassador for climate change and the awareness of the dire consequences, if left unnoticed.

7. Robin Williams (‘Good Will Hunting’)

The range this guy possessed was really outstanding. One could never have imagined him featuring in dramatic roles, and yet he changed the way dramatic roles were portrayed. Winning the Oscar for his scintillating performance in ‘Good Will Hunting’, with the park monologue being one of the greatest of all time, the humble Williams opted for a subdued approach in his speech.

6. Daniel Day Lewis (‘Lincoln’)

This guy is probably the greatest actor in the history of cinema. His dedication and drive is unmatched in the industry, with many even going on record to dub him as “retarded” and “insane”. He made history with an unprecedented third Oscar win in the Best Actor in a Leading Role category, completing the triumvirate with his portrayal of Abraham Lincoln in Steven Speilberg’s ‘Linclon’. Receiving the award from the great Meryl Streep, the unison saw two of the greatest actors in cinematic history together. With some quick-witted remarks and brutal honesty, Day Lewis won hearts with his endearing homage to the great man of America. A truly well deserved Oscar!

5. Marlon Brando (‘The Godfather’)

Odd choice! The speech mentioned here is the one that Brando didn’t give. Or he gave it in spirit. I don’t know. But what I do know is, the significance of the speech on his behalf forever changed the face of cinema in Hollywood. He didn’t turn out to take his award for his marvelous performance as the godfather in its namesake in protest for atrocities against Native Indians. Their persecution and negative portrayal in the industry didn’t find a supporter in Brando, who sent out a representative with a 15 minute long speech. Even though it didn’t turn out to be that long, it had a significant effect on the way Native Indians were portrayed in the following years. Kudos Brando!

4. Cuba Gooding Jr (‘Jerry Maguire’)

I really feel an actor winning the Oscar for ‘Jerry Maguire’ was bound to happen. But I think they messed up the names and Cuba Gooding Jr ended up winning the award instead of Tom Cruise. Well, the celebration certainly wasn’t downtrodden, with the mercurial actor out speaking the man with the sticks. The over enthusiastic acceptance does make for a fun watch. Perhaps overawed by the win and thanking the charm Gods?

3. Viola Davis (‘Fences’)

She is without doubt the most powerful of thespians in the industry. Her formidable speech and her excruciating and penetrating emotions often make you cringe with pain and agony. We are perhaps lucky, and blessed in some mysterious ways, to have an actress like that in the industry. And one of the most memorable speeches of all time came not long back ago, when Davis won the Best Actress in a supporting role for ‘Fences’. Oh, boy, the way she talked, with this driving force, that compelled us to stand and applaud, that sent shivers down our spines, is unparalleled. Her profound sense of belongingness humbled one and all present there, and made our hearts ring with solidarity.

2. Robert Benigni (‘Life is Wonderful’)

‘Life is Beautiful’ was a revolutionary film when it first came out. The tangible emotions in the film touched one and all, and set the industry on a new course towards acceptance of foreign films. He won two Oscars that night, one for the Best Foreign film, and the other for Best Actor in a leading role, which overwhelmed his person and brought out one of the most funniest and bizarre acceptance speeches of all time. But it was the first one on the night that stood out. Ascending chairs and standing with his arms out in triumph, like he had won the world, followed by his rabbit like cadence, hoping enthusiastically to the stage, Benigni set the night alight. So good a watch! “This is a terrible mistake, because my English isn’t good.”

1. Halle Berry (‘Monster’s Ball’)

This remains the most exhilarating and iconic acceptance speech of all time. Visibly shaken and thrilled to have won the award, Berry had an instantaneous reaction of crying her heart out the moment her name was announced. Not only did she become the first woman of color to win in the leading category, she also etched her name into history books with record breaking views on her acceptance on You-tube. She just couldn’t control herself and sobbed incessantly, with only futile attempts to console her by fellow peers around her. That display of unbridled emotions is emblematic of the discrimination against black artists in the industry and their indignations against the overlooking of worthy performances. The video is so heart-felt and touching, it will give you goose bumps, just the way it did to millions watching that day. “This moment is so much bigger than me. And this is for all women of color, who have a chance with the door today being opened!”

Read More: Best Actors Without Oscars

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Award Acceptance Speech

Award acceptance speech generator.

Navigate the art of delivering a heartfelt award acceptance speech with our expert guide, which includes a variety of inspiring speech examples . This comprehensive resource is designed to assist you in articulating your gratitude and joy effectively. Whether you’re acknowledging a professional honor or a personal milestone, our array of speech examples will guide you in creating a memorable and sincere acceptance speech, ensuring your words leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Download Award Acceptance Speech Bundle

If you have been nominated for an award and you are confident that your chances of winning is high or even if you are not that confident you’ll win, it is only right to prepare a speech when receiving said award. As English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge has said, “He who is best prepared can best serve his moment of inspiration.” Therefore, you should prepare a speech ahead of time regardless of uncertainty in order to avoid stuttering when accepting an award or plainly embarrassing yourself in such a momentous occasion for saying the wrong words.

Outline of an Award Acceptance Speech

When you when an award especially during prestigious events, it is most likely that you are expected to give an award acceptance speech . As the name suggests, it is a speech you give when you accept an award and mainly for expressing how honored and thankful you are to be given such recognition. In the process of writing the speech , you should also know what information you should include. Although there is no set standard on how to write the speech, here is an explanation on the outline of an award acceptance speech:

This part of your speech is basically your introduction. This will be your formal opening, the ice breaker or the attention-grabber for your speech. The main purpose of this part is to show your excitement, your shock and happiness to be given the award. This will also serve as your formal acknowledgement to the people present during the event. In some award acceptance speeches given by professionals in certain filed, this is where they insert a humorous quip. For speech example , during the Oscars in 2010, Sandra Bullock who won the Best Actress Award opened her speech with “Did I really earn this or did I just wear you all down?”

2. Expression of gratitude

This part of the speech is where you express your gratitude for the organization or institution who has given you the award. Although this can also be used to thank important people in your life, thanking the organization also expresses your respect to the body who has given you the award. Aside from that, this is also your way to talk about how thankful you are just for the nomination and how much happy and honored you are that the deciding body chose you despite of all the talented nominees.

3. Address your competition

It is only right that you acknowledge the people who were nominated alongside you. This is the part of your speech where you speak well of your competition. Although they were your competitors for the award, some of them are your close acquaintances or friends and people you have admired for a long time. This is also your time to acknowledge how brilliant they performed in their own right and how worthy they are of the nomination. In addition, you can also mention how these nominees also served as your inspiration during the process of creating your work. Through this you strengthen your friendship with some of them and creating new meaningful relationships with the others.

4. Sharing the glory

On this part of the speech you share your glory to the people who have continuously supported you. Aside from the people executives like talent scouts, directors, producers, managers, supervisors, etc. who have taken a chance on you, this is also where you thank the most important people in your life like your spouse, parents, siblings, friends, mentors and so on. When the late Robin Williams received the Best Supporting Actor during the 1998 Oscars, he humorously thanked his late father saying “Most of all, I want to thank my father, up there, the man who when I said I wanted to be an actor, he said, ‘Wonderful. Just have a back-up profession like welding.'”

5. Conclusion

The conclusion of your speech can be inspirational, funny, challenging and others. You should definitely end your speech with something you can be remembered by. For example you can pose a challenge to the audience, or your can leave with some inspirational message that the audience can ponder on, or you can end your speech with some witty, funny remarks. To end his award acceptance speech during the Mark Twain Comedy Award in 2011, actor-comedian Will Ferrell funny quipped the theater band “Now, you can play it, now you can play the music.” as they have interrupted him in the beginning of his speech.

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Award Acceptance Speech for Students

Short Award Acceptance Speech

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How to Make an Award Acceptance Speech

In order to deliver an outstanding award acceptance speech you should prepared it ahead of time. Although some prepare to deliver it extemporaneously, but in order to save time you can prepare just the basic outline of what you want to say or a list of people you want to thank so as not to forget anyone. However, when you have been given prior knowledge about the award, it is much better to allot time to actually write it. Hence, here is a guide you can refer to when you write an award acceptance speech:

1. Brainstorm ideas

This part of your process will be the foundation or outline as you go along with the actual writing process. This will enable you to generate ideas on how you want your speech to go and what yu want to include in the speech. Aside from that, it will allow you to gather inspiration that you can apply in your own speech.

• Make a list of the reasons why you are thankful for receiving the award.
• Make a list of all the people you want to thank in your speech. Only name the most important ones, and thank the others in general.
• Read or watch other acceptance speeches in order to draw inspiration.

2. Write your speech

Since you already have enough ideas and basically an outline of how your speech should go, you can now proceed to the actual writing process. The writing process should be easy enough since the speech is supposed to be brief and more importantly because you already have a guide. A list of the entire writing process is listed below:

• Write a brief introduction that will set the tone of your entire speech. Make sure you try to express gratitude and connect with the audience right away. You can also start your speech with a funny quip, but try to avoid sarcasm or joking about the merits of the award itself. In addition, the length of your introduction will heavily depend on the time allotted to you to deliver the speech.
• Proceed to the body of your speech focusing on the people you want to express your gratitude to. This speech should be devoted to expressing your gratitude to the body who gave you the award, the people you enabled you to showcase your talents and all the people who have undoubtedly supported you. You can easily refer to the list of people you want to thank that you have made beforehand.
• Avoid thanking too many people. Although this is meant to express your gratitude, the audience will easily get bored if all you do is thank everyone one-by-one. It can also cause disappointments once you forget to mention someone.
• Take caution in making you speech a platform. Although this can be used to address certain controversies or social issues, be wary in doing so since saying the wrong things when you only mean well can still be interpreted badly.
• Conclude your speech on a positive note. Make sure you end your speech in a lighthearted and positive manner in order to maintain the atmosphere and also to make sure you have used up your opportunity in a good way.

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How to Deliver an Award Acceptance Speech

Aside from having a brilliant speech, you should also be to deliver you speech in a brilliant manner. You have to make sure that your delivery is perfect to that the audience can clearly understand you and so that your message can be heard audibly. Here are some tips on how you can deliver your award acceptance speech:

• Show your personality . The delivery of your speech should come from the heart. It is okay to sound a surprised and shocked for it is only human. With that, you should show your personality through the words you say and the actions or gestures you make.
• Be gracious . Being gracious means acknowledging the good work done by your competitors and thanking the organization that selected you for the award. You show how good-natured you are by avoiding the tendency of becoming narcissistic; talk about others more thank yourself.
• Show excitement . Showing your excitement does not mean you have to do cartwheels towards the stage, but you have to make sure that the audience can recognize that you are really happy to have won the award. You can show this through words or through gestures. Some are show visible signs of excitement like getting jitters, heavy breathing, getting teary-eyed, and so on.
• Be modest . It should not be self-congratulatory however heartfelt it may be. Show modesty through avoiding talking more about you than other relevant and important people in your life.
• Practice, practice, practice . Your should prepare, rehearse with a timer, memorize key people to thank and allow time for the unexpected.

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Tips in Writing and Delivering Award Acceptance Speech

Now that you have enough ideas and guide on how to write a brilliant award acceptance speech and how to effectively deliver it, your should also know some of the other important yet forgotten details about it. Hence, here is a list of useful tips you should know when writing and delivering an award acceptance speech:

• It is best to ask how much time you are allotted for the speech.
• Allot time to brainstorm what you want to include in your speech and which to talk about first.
• With the time constraint in mind, begin writing the introduction of your speech.
• Keep your speech short but sincere.
• Wholeheartedly acknowledge those who helped you along the way.
• Express honest appreciation.
• Include witty, humorous remarks to have an entertaining factor.
• Explain how this experience has changed your life for the better.
• End the speech with a bang.
• Aim to make the speech memorable.
• Avoid using notes.
• Give a nod to the organizers.
• Establish a personal connection.
• Be genuine.
• Stop apologizing for the past, for being speechless, for getting emotional, and so on.
• Mention and acknowledge the organization’s goals.
• Keep a lid on the jokes.One or two jokes is already enough.

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Concluding your award acceptance speech, remember to speak from the heart, expressing genuine gratitude. Utilize our guide and examples to eloquently acknowledge those who’ve supported you, making your speech as memorable as the achievement itself. Your words have the power to inspire and resonate, leaving a lasting impact on your audience. Embrace this opportunity to shine and share your journey with grace and appreciation.

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Written Samples

10 award acceptance speech samples.

Crafting the perfect acceptance speech is an art form, a delicate balance of gratitude, humility, and celebration. It’s a moment to acknowledge those who have contributed to your success, reflect on your journey, and inspire others who may follow in your footsteps.

Whether you are a seasoned professional accustomed to the spotlight or a first-time honoree feeling a mix of excitement and nerves, these sample speeches are designed to help you convey your message with eloquence and sincerity.

Award Acceptance Speech Samples

Let these speeches guide you in sharing your story, expressing your gratitude, and celebrating your achievements with an audience who is eager to celebrate with you.

1. The Journey to Excellence

Ladies and gentlemen, I stand before you, humbled and honored to accept this prestigious award. This moment is not just a personal milestone; it is a culmination of years of hard work, relentless dedication, and an unwavering belief in the pursuit of excellence. I am here because of the countless individuals who have shaped my journey—the mentors who guided me, the colleagues who supported me, and the family who stood by me every step of the way.

This award is a testament to the power of collaboration, passion, and perseverance. It symbolizes not only what one can achieve with determination but also what we can accomplish together as a community. As I accept this honor, I am reminded of the early days of struggle, the setbacks that seemed insurmountable, and the victories that were all the sweeter for their difficulty.

To all aspiring individuals out there, let this be a message of hope and inspiration. Your dreams are valid, your hard work will pay off, and your journey, though unique, is a part of a larger story of human endeavor and resilience. Thank you for this incredible honor, and may we all continue to strive for excellence in all that we do.

2. A Tribute to Teamwork

As I accept this award, I am acutely aware that no achievement is an island. This is not just my success, but a shared victory for everyone who has been part of this incredible journey. To my team, you are the unsung heroes, the backbone of every project, and the spirit behind our success. Your dedication, creativity, and spirit of collaboration have not only made our work outstanding but have also made every challenge a joy to overcome.

To our clients and partners, your trust and support have been invaluable. You have challenged us to push boundaries, innovate, and exceed expectations at every turn. And to my family, your love and unwavering belief in me have been my anchor and my guiding light.

This award is a reminder of what we can achieve when we work together towards a common goal. It is a tribute to teamwork, partnership, and shared dreams. Thank you for walking this path with me, for sharing in the hard work and the celebrations, and for being an integral part of this story.

3. Reflecting on the Path of Persistence

Today, as I stand before you, I am filled with a sense of profound gratitude and reflection. This award is a significant milestone, but it is also a moment to look back on the journey that brought me here. It has been a path marked by persistence, learning, and the constant pursuit of improvement. There have been moments of doubt and failure, but each has been a stepping stone to greater understanding and achievement.

I want to express my deepest thanks to those who have been my mentors and guides. Your wisdom and encouragement have been my compass in times of uncertainty. To my peers in the industry, your work continues to inspire and challenge me to be better. And to my family, your sacrifices have not gone unnoticed; your support is the foundation of everything I am.

This award is not the end, but rather a marker along a continuing journey. It is a reminder to keep striving, keep learning, and keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Thank you for this honor, and may we all continue to grow and excel in our endeavors.

4. A Celebration of Vision and Innovation

Receiving this award is a moment of immense pride and joy. It is a recognition of a vision that dared to look beyond the conventional, to innovate and redefine what is possible. I am incredibly grateful to be surrounded by a team of visionaries, thinkers, and creators who share a commitment to excellence and innovation.

Our work is a testament to what can be achieved when you dare to imagine and have the courage to implement those ideas. This award is not just for me; it is for all those who believed in the vision, who contributed their time, talent, and passion to bringing it to life.

I would also like to thank our community and industry for embracing our ideas and allowing us the opportunity to contribute. Your acceptance and recognition are what drive us to keep innovating and striving for better. Thank you for this honor, and here’s to a future of continued innovation and success.

5. Gratitude and Aspiration

This evening, I am filled with gratitude as I accept this award. It is a reflection of not just my work, but the belief, effort, and aspiration of everyone who has been part of this journey. I am deeply thankful for the opportunities I’ve had, the challenges that have made me stronger, and the successes that have been all the more sweet for their difficulty.

To the young individuals looking up to this moment, let this be a symbol of what you can achieve with passion and perseverance. Let it inspire you to set high goals and to keep reaching for them, even when the path is steep and the obstacles many.

My aspiration is that this award not only serves as an acknowledgment of past achievements but also as an inspiration for future endeavors. May we all aspire to create, contribute, and make a difference in whatever field we choose. Thank you for this great honor, and may we all look forward to a future filled with achievement and purpose.

6. Dedication to Craft

Standing here today, I am reminded of the countless hours of dedication, the relentless pursuit of perfection, and the unwavering commitment to our craft. This award is a testament to that dedication and a celebration of the artistic and technical excellence we strive for in our work.

I am immensely grateful to my colleagues, whose talent and commitment are the heartbeat of our success. To our mentors and leaders, thank you for setting the bar high and for guiding us with your wisdom and experience. And to our families and loved ones, your support and sacrifice make all the difference.

This moment is a culmination of many moments, a tapestry woven from our collective passion and dedication. It is an honor to receive this recognition, and I am inspired to continue pushing the limits of our craft. Thank you for this incredible honor, and let us all continue to dedicate ourselves to the pursuit of excellence.

7. A Journey of Growth and Impact

Today is a significant milestone in a journey that has been filled with growth, learning, and impact. Receiving this award is not only a personal honor but also a reflection of the collective effort and commitment of everyone involved in our mission. Our work is driven by a desire to make a difference, to contribute to our field, and to impact the world positively.

I am deeply grateful for the support and collaboration of my colleagues and partners. Your expertise, passion, and dedication have been instrumental in our achievements. To the mentors who have guided me, your wisdom has been invaluable. And to my family, your love and encouragement have been the cornerstone of everything I do.

This award is a reminder of the responsibility we carry to continue growing, innovating, and contributing. It is an encouragement to keep striving for excellence and making an impact in the world. Thank you for this honor, and may we all continue on this path of positive change.

8. Embracing Challenges, Celebrating Success

In accepting this award, I am reminded of the myriad challenges we faced, the obstacles we overcame, and the successes we celebrated. Each step on this journey has been an opportunity to learn, to grow, and to excel. This award is a celebration of that journey, an acknowledgment of the resilience and determination it takes to succeed.

I am immensely grateful to my team, whose hard work and innovation have been the key to our success. Your courage to embrace challenges and your commitment to excellence are what set us apart. To our clients and supporters, your faith in us fuels our ambition and drives us to do better. And to my family, your love and support mean everything.

As we celebrate this success, let us also look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. May we continue to embrace them with the same courage and determination, and may our future endeavors be even more successful and impactful. Thank you for this honor, and here’s to a future of continued success and innovation.

9. Building a Legacy of Excellence

Receiving this award is a profound honor and a moment to reflect on the legacy we are building. It is a recognition of past achievements and a foundation for future ones. Our work is not just about individual success; it is about setting standards, inspiring others, and contributing to a legacy of excellence in our field.

I am deeply thankful to everyone who has been a part of this journey. To my mentors, your guidance has shaped my path. To my colleagues, your talent and dedication make our work outstanding. To our industry, your recognition motivates us to continue setting benchmarks of excellence. And to my family, your love and support are my constant source of strength.

This award is a milestone in our continuing journey of excellence. It is a motivation to keep pushing boundaries, keep innovating, and keep inspiring. Thank you for this honor, and may we all continue to contribute to a legacy of excellence and achievement.

10. A Vision Realized, A Future Inspired

As I accept this award, I am filled with gratitude for the vision that inspired our journey, the hard work that turned it into a reality, and the people who have been part of this remarkable adventure. This recognition is not just for what has been achieved but also for what is yet to come. It is an encouragement to continue pursuing our vision with passion and determination.

To everyone who has supported this journey, your belief in our vision has been the fuel for our success. Your encouragement, advice, and feedback have been invaluable. To the leaders and innovators in our field, your work continues to inspire us. And to my family, your love and support make everything possible.

This award is a reflection of a vision realized and a future inspired. It is a commitment to continue our pursuit of excellence, to keep innovating, and to keep making a difference. Thank you for this tremendous honor, and let’s all look forward to a future of continued success and innovation.

In crafting these speeches, the aim is to provide a template for articulating gratitude, acknowledging the contribution of others, reflecting on the journey, and inspiring future success.

Each speech is an opportunity to connect with the audience, share personal stories, and celebrate the achievements that have led to the moment of recognition. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or preparing for your first acceptance speech, these samples are designed to help you deliver your message with confidence and grace.

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Home / Oscars / Awards Databases / Academy Awards Acceptance Speeches

Academy Awards Acceptance Speech Database

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Year: 2017 (90th) Academy Awards

Category: Actor in a Leading Role

Date & Venue: March 4, 2018; Dolby Theatre

GARY OLDMAN: Well, my deepest thanks to the Academy and its members for this glorious prize. I owe this and so much more to so many. I've lived in America for the longest time and I am deeply grateful to her for the loves and the friendships I have made and the many wonderful gifts it has given me: my home, my livelihood, my family and now Oscar. The movies, such is their power, captivated a young man from South London and gave him a dream. And Douglas Urbanski, my dear, dear friend and brother, you have helped keep that dream alive. Joe Wright, thank you for this [holding out the Oscar]. It only took twenty years for us to work together, but it was well worth the wait. Thank you, Kazu, Lucy, David, for your artistry. Thank you, everyone at Working Title and Universal Focus, for your herculean efforts and support on this film. Thank you, Eric Fellner, Tim Bevan, Lisa Bruce, Anthony McCarten. Dani and her amazing team. And of course, Jim Osborne. I would just like to salute Sir Winston Churchill who has been marvelous company on what can be described as an incredible journey, and my wife Gisele for traveling that road with me and being at my side. Thank you, Alfie, Gully, Charlie, William. My remarkable, remarkable fellow nominees, and my dear friend out there, Denzel. And obviously I'm not gonna win the, uh, you know, the ski. I would like to thank my mother who is older than the Oscar. She is 99 years young next birthday, and she is watching this ceremony from the comfort of her sofa. I say to my mother: Thank you for your love and support. Put the kettle on, I'm bringing Oscar home.

[Ed. note: Host Jimmy Kimmel announced during his opening monologue that whoever gave the shortest acceptance speech that night would go home with a brand new jet ski, which was then showcased onstage by Helen Mirren. The eventual winner was Mark Bridges (Costume Design).]

© Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences [Note: All winners are present except where noted; NOT all winners may have spoken.]

20 Inspiring Award Ceremony Acceptance Speeches

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​​​​​​With award season upon us once again, there's already been plenty of excitement and fanfare around. The buzz about the upcoming Academy Awards is starting, and we've already been treated to all the thrills of this year's Golden Globes and have the Primetime Emmys around the corner.

For the cinephiles for whom movies and series are not just entertainment but an art form, awards season is one of the most exciting times of the year. Over the years, major awards shows like the Academy Awards, Golden Globes, Primetime Emmys, Critic's Choice Awards, and BAFTAs have given us some amazing and influential moments of triumph and vindication for the artists who gave their all to the performances honored by them.

Equally emotional at times have been their moments on stage as they delivered acceptance speeches that stuck out for how inspirational or moving they were. Some used the platform to speak about matters close to their heart, bring awareness to significant social causes, or to just express what an honor it was. With so many memorable acceptance speeches over the years, in no particular order, here's a look back at the 20 that we found most inspiring.

20 Joaquin Phoenix — Academy Award for Best Actor (2020)

Joker (2019)

When Joaquin Phoenix won the Best Actor Oscar for Joker, no one doubted that he deserved the award. The performance was exceptional and layered in so many unique ways that it brought out the character's darkest nuances with sublime skill.

Despite that, what stood out when he accepted his award was that he chose to make a speech about something far more important.

A Speech for All Humanity

There was an air of humility from the moment he began. His words acknowledged that more than all the material perks of being a star, it gave him the opportunity to be a voice for the voiceless. From there, Phoenix eloquently brought to light the on-going issue of climate change and how we should all care about it since it affects us all.

Stream Joker on Max

19 Tyler Perry — BET Award for Ultimate Icon (2019)

Tyler Perry has become one of the most powerful figures in Hollywood and built an empire in the process. He's often seen as an inspiration to people of color for his incredible achievements despite all the adversities he faced in life. In 2019 when he won an Icon Award at the BET Awards, his speech echoed all of these facts in a powerful way.

Related: How the Oscars Lost Cultural Relevance

Paving the Way

His speech started off with a story of how he helped a person selling sweets to cross the road. He then mentions how his first 10 movies were subconsciously for his mother, so she could feel seen and heard. In the same way, he passed a message to others that your skin color should never determine how much success a person can achieve.

18 Austin Butler — BAFTA for Best Actor (2023)

Read Our Review

Austin Butler's performance in Elvis was mesmerizing, and made it truly feel like the King had been brought back to life. Everything from his voice to his mannerisms and moves were perfectly executed and a true treat for fans of the legendary singer and actor.

Sweet and Heartfelt

When he won the BAFTA for that role, Butler's speech was truly heartfelt, since it conveyed a humility in deferring to the grandeur of the role. His tone captured this, as he thanked the people who helped him perfect the role.

As a sweet touch, he ended it by thanking the Presley family and acknowledging how they had helped him truly understand who Elvis really was from those who knew and loved him best.

Stream Elvis on Netflix

17 Brendan Fraser — Academy Award for Best Actor (2023)

2023's The Whale was a film that made waves for its bold subject and the brilliant manner it was executed. The crowning achievement for the film came when Brendan Fraser won the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in it. A veteran of the industry, he's famously faced some very hard times and was even blacklisted and shunned for years because he spoke out about it.

A Standing Ovation

When he delivered his speech, Fraser immediately received a standing ovation. The palpable emotion in the room echoed all he had gone through while remaining a beloved actor despite his much-publicized hardships in the industry. His words weren't anything particularly inspiring, but it was the pure joy and emotion in his tone that conveyed what a special moment it was and made it a truly inspiring one.

Stream The Whale on Paramount+

16 Eddie Redmayne — Academy Award for Best Actor (2015)

The Theory of Everything

His performance in The Theory of Everything made everyone stand up and recognize definitively what a fantastic actor Eddie Redmayne is. His role as Stephen Hawking was exceptional, and he's rightly been held in the highest regard by fans and peers ever since.

A Bit of Everything

Redmayne's speech had a little bit of everything, including a moment when he looked at the Oscar in his hand and seemed almost overwhelmed at the fact that he was actually standing there having won one. While he made jokes and got the crowd laughing, he also very humbly dedicated his award to everyone struggling with ALS.

Rent The Theory of Everything on Apple TV+

15 Bong Joon Ho — Academy Award for Best Director (2020)

In 2020 the film Parasite put foreign movies in the spotlight as it won big at the Oscars. It's director, Bong Joon Ho gave a moving speech through a translator that resulted in a standing ovation in the middle of the speech. A memorable moment, it spoke of Ho's humility as he thanked every one of his film-making heroes, singling out one in particular.

Related: The Best Oscar Acceptance Speeches of All Time, Ranked

Nod to a Legend

While he mentioned other directors that inspired and helped him, Ho heaped praise on Martin Scorsese. He started by mentioning an inspiring quote about how most creative parts of us come from that which is personal, before pointing to the crowd and mentioning that those words came from the great Martin Scorsese. That sent the crowd into rapture as the entire room stood up to acknowledge the iconic director.

Stream Parasite on Max

14 Kate Winslet — Academy Award for Best Actress (2009)

Ever since her role in Titanic , Kate Winslet has rightly been regarded as one of the finest actors around. When she won the Best Actress Oscar for The Reader , her joy was inspiring, since it was plain for everyone to see how much it all still meant to her despite having been an A-lister for many years by that point.

Remembering to Feel Proud

While making a political point and standing up for causes were great, there was also nothing wrong with remembering to feel proud of the achievement either. Winslet's emotion was touching and as she recounted how she had practiced a version of this speech since she was eight-years-old, it was inspiring to hear how she had achieved her dreams all those years later.

Stream The Reader on Prime Video

13 Matthew McConaughey — Academy Award for Best Actor (2014)

Dallas Buyers Club

When he won the Best Actor Award for Dallas Buyers Club, it was finally vindication for Matthew McConaughey as an actor, since he spent much of his early career being typecast and mostly adored for his physical features.

He's since gone on to cement that acceptance with other sterling performances that show what great range and depth he actually has. McConaughey's speech that night at the Oscars remains an inspiring one for many, since he chose to be bold and true to himself with it.

Acknowledging His Faith

Matthew McConaughey's beliefs as a Christian are well-known. However, when he got up on stage, knowing what a massive worldwide platform it was, he emphatically thanked God first for everything he was and had achieved.

Given that Hollywood politics has often been very harsh toward Christian beliefs because of how often it aligned with conservatism, for many Christians out there, McConaughey's speech was inspiring for how boldly he was willing to declare his faith, knowing it could lead to backlash.

A piece from Time Magazine aptly summed up why it was a big deal.

But there were some people who did care. They cared very, very much. Part of the reason people care is that award winners thanking God is far from common at the Oscars. According to the Daily Caller , God has been thanked just 14 times in 100 speeches over the last 30 years. In the last decade, according to Slate , God has been mentioned fewer times than Meryl Streep.

Rent Dallas Buyers Club on Prime Video

12 Chadwick Boseman — AFI Lifetime Achievement Award for Denzel Washington (2019)

When the late Chadwick Boseman delivered a speech for an AFI Lifetime Achievement Award for Denzel Washington, no better person could have been chosen to do it. Boseman owed his career to him and his emotional words perfectly echoed that humbling story.

An Offering from a Sage and a King

While recounting the story, Boseman jokingly referred to Washington as "the dopest" actor around but then also beautifully captured why his act of generosity had meant so much to his career and the cinematic world by extension.

The offering from a Sage and a King is more than silver and gold. It is a seed of hope, a bud of faith. There is no Black Panther without Denzel Washington!

11 Lupita Nyong'o — Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress (2014)

12 Years a Slave

12 Years a Slave was a powerful film that provided a devastatingly brilliant portrayal of the horrors of slavery. It also provided some superb performances, and was an early glimpse of the amazing talent Lupita N yong'o possesses . Winning an Oscar for it was a remarkable achievement given that it was only her second film role.

Suffering for Success

Her speech for the award was filled with emotion but also very inspiring because it paid homage to those who suffered at the hands of slavery.

Related: Exclusive: Eddie Redmayne and A. R Rahman Go Behind the Oscars Speech

A topic that never loses relevance , Lupita's speech recognized the character she played and all she and others had to endure because of this dark period of human history.

Stream 12 Years a Slave on Fubo

10 Leonard DiCaprio — Academy Award for Best Actor (2016)

The Revenant

Prior to starring in The Revenant , the brilliant Leonardo DiCaprio was constantly known as one of the best actors to have never won an Oscar. When his moment finally came, there was a palpable air of joy in the room as one of the greatest living actors was finally recognized the way he fully deserved. Despite the long wait, he still used his platform to speak about what was really most dear to him.

A Win for the Environment

Fans of DiCaprio know that he's one of the most tireless supporters of the fight against climate change and an ardent environmental activist. Having waited so long to win an Oscar, he could have easily made his entire speech about himself. However, after thanking those who helped make the film such a success, he spent most of his speech bringing awareness to environmental issues, which showed a real touch of class on his part.

Rent The Revenant on Apple TV+

9 Taraji P. Henson — SAG Award for Cast in a Motion Picture (2017)

Hidden Figures

When the cast of Hidden Figures won a SAG Award for the poignant film in 2017, Taraji P. Henson delivered the acceptance speech on their behalf. Her moving words echoed the truth behind why it was such a powerful film and one that needed to be made so the women it featured could be recognized for their stunning achievements.

They Were Heroes

The film tells the true story of three brilliant female women of color who were mathematicians that helped put men into space. As Henson aptly mentions, they showed us how to reach the stars, and never complained about the horrific prejudice of their era, but chose instead to focus on solutions.

Stream Hidden Figures on Disney+

8 Denzel Washington —NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor (2017)

The great Denzel Washington isn't just an icon for his unbelievable talent. He's also one because of the role model he has been to entire generations of minorities. His sheer talent and screen presence has long since been changing lives with the way he chooses to act as a beacon of inspiration to others, something he did once again with this acceptance speech.

Inspiring the Next Generation

It was his 20th win at the NAACP Image Awards for that category. One would think by now he may even have become bored by constantly being honored. However, Denzel's iconic status has always been augmented by his deep understanding of how his success can be used to uplift others , and that this award show in particular meant so much to so many struggling minority actors who constantly felt overlooked by the industry.

Related: Academy Awards: Best Acceptance Speeches from the 2020s (So Far), Ranked

Using his words as wisely as ever, he paid homage to other amazing actors like Kerry Washington and Viola Davis and used them as an example to the next generation for why they should never give up on their dreams.

7 Michelle Yeoh — Academy Award for Best Actress (2023)

Everything Everywhere All at Once

Michelle Yeoh's Best Actress win at the 2023 Oscars was a huge moment for diversity in the industry, since she became the first woman of Asian descent to ever win it. Everything Everywhere All at Once played to a ton of acclaim and was an entertaining movie. However, its greater significance came from how it shone a spotlight on Asian actors and their immense talent.

For the Little Boys and Girls

Michelle Yeoh was shaking with emotion as she delivered a speech steeped in poignancy and sentiment. She noted that the award was for "all the little boys and girls that look like me," using her achievement as a beacon for them to realize that their dreams can come true, no matter how many obstacles there may be.

Stream Everything Everywhere All at Once on Prime Video

6 Heath Ledger — Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (2009)

The Dark Knight

His tragic and untimely death sent shock waves around Hollywood and the world, but what made Heath Ledger's passing all the more sad was that his last role gave us an immortal performance . It isn't often that performances like his Joker in The Dark Knight come around. Scintillating and original, it set a high bar for comic book films.

A Bittersweet Moment

What made this acceptance speech stand out was that Heath had already passed on and was awarded the Oscar posthumously. In a fitting moment, it was his family that accepted the award for him and their kind and gracious words spoke only of humility that provided inspiring insight into how well he had been loved by those who knew him best. There was also gratitude that his talent was vindicated despite him no longer being around.

Stream The Dark Knight on Max

5 Viola Davis — Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series (2015)

How to Get Away With Murder

While she'd been around a while, How to Get Away with Murder brought the exceptional talents of Viola Davis to the attention of a wider audience. Winning an Emmy for her role in it was a richly deserved honor since she's proven to be a brilliant actress with an amazing screen presence. Her speech that night echoed the struggle of many others, and she used her words powerfully to highlight that struggle.

Opportunity as a Barrier

A visibly emotional Davis delivered a moving speech that was also a devastating indictment on prejudice in the industry . It's better to see her words for themselves than to try and describe why they were so powerful.

And let me tell you something, the only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity. You cannot win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there.

Stream How to Get Away with Murder on Netflix

4 Ryan Gosling — Goldent Globe for Best Actor In a Comedy or Musical (2017)

When Ryan Gosling won this award, he was at the height of his fame as one of the most desired actors in the world. However, his looks aside, it was moments like this speech that cemented why his armies of fans truly admired him so much.

He Paid Tribute to His Lady

Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes make a stunning couple but have been notoriously private about their personal lives. However, when he accepted the award, Gosling dedicated the speech to Eva Mendes , acknowledging the sacrifices she had made so that he could go off and make the film.

He mentioned that it was a time when she had been experiencing many personal struggles taking care of her brother who later passed away from cancer, and hailed her efforts for enduring that on her own so that he could commit to making La La Land .

Stream La La Land on Netflix

3 Ke Huy Quan — Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (2023)

While most people knew him as the kid from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Ke Huy Quan had a remarkable comeback when he won an Oscar for his role in Everything Everywhere All at Once. It was an inspiring achievement, and his emotion when he accepted the award spoke volumes about how much it meant to him.

Related: 10 Oscar Acceptance Speeches That Sparked Controversy

The American Dream

Delivering the speech in tears, Quan spoke about his time spent as a refugee for a year. He thanked his mother and mentioned how much it meant to them both. Given the immense obstacles he faced to get to where he was, Quan emphatically declared that he was an embodiment of the American Dream.

2 Marlon Brando — Academy Award for Best Actor (1972)

The Godfather

The film is considered a masterpiece and while it was one of the greatest performances in cinematic history, what made Marlon Brando's role in The Godfather even more memorable was how he chose to deal with his Oscar win for it. A moment that played a large part in celebrity activism culture, it made for an unforgettable speech at the ceremony.

No One Knew How to React

​​​​Long before the Academy Awards became synonymous with political statements, Brando made a massive one when he never even showed up to the ceremony. Instead, when he won, he sent a Native American actress and activist named Sacheen Littlefeather to regretfully refuse to accept the award.

She explained that the reason was his protest against the treatment of Native peoples in films and television. It was a shocking moment for its time and while most people saw the deeper meaning behind it and applauded, it was a sign of how different times were back then that some audience members actually booed Littlefeather.

Stream The Godfather on Fubo

1 Halle Berry — Academy Award for Best Actress (2002)

monster's ball

There weren't many Oscar moments as poignant or historical as this one in the long and illustrious history of the ceremony. When Halle Berry won the award for Best Actress for her hauntingly painful role in Monster's Ball , it meant far more than just being a victory for her.

Breaking Barriers

For a long time, there's been a dark shadow of prejudice that's hung over the glamor of Hollywood, especially against women and people of color. It has constantly been decried by the many brilliant artists who have been overlooked because of it.

The emotion when Halle accepted her award was overwhelming, and as she broke down to give her speech, her words were filled with emotion that harkened to that shadow, and resonated with significance.

As she put it, the award wasn't just for her but for every woman of color for whom it vindicated and opened doors, by her becoming the first black woman in history to ever win the award for that category. Unfortunately, her watershed moment has never been repeated since.

Stream Monster's Ball on The Roku Channel

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While some tune into the Oscars to watch the glitz and glamour, Hollywood’s biggest night is also a great lesson in speechwriting—the good and the bad.

Take this past Academy Awards ceremony. When Parasite director/producer Bong Joon-ho made history by becoming the first filmmaker to win best picture for a non-English language film, his speeches transcended language barriers. Returning to the stage for the third time to collect his award for best director, Bong Joon-ho spoke directly to his fellow nominees , saying, via translator, that he wished he could “get a Texas chainsaw, split the Oscar trophy into five and share it.” It was a heart-felt, touching moment for a relatively unknown filmmaker who had just walked into history by besting veteran nominees like Martin Scorsese.

Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for Joaquin Phoenix’s rambling tirade.  During the nearly four-minute acceptance speech, Phoenix spoke about everything from gender inequality and racism to animal rights. The biggest head-scratcher came when the Joker actor turned to the topic of dairy: “We feel entitled to artificially inseminate a cow and steal her baby, even though her cries of anguish are unmistakable. Then we take her milk that’s intended for her calf and we put it in our coffee and our cereal.”

Phoenix wasn’t the first winner of the night to turn political. Earlier, best supporting actor Brad Pitt made a reference to former National Security Advisor John Bolton in a highly praised speech. The difference: Pitt’s speech was direct and carefully thought-out; Phoenix’s appeared to be a laundry list of everything that’s wrong with the world—which wasn’t a great idea because, in Pitt’s words, Oscar speeches should be no longer than 45 seconds.

If you’re getting ready to give any kind of speech or presentation, follow these Oscar-worthy tips:

1. Speak from the Heart

The most-quoted Oscar speech of all time goes to Sally Field , who, after accepting her second Oscar in 1985 for her role in Places in the Heart , famously said: “I can’t deny the fact that you like me, right now, you like me!” (not “you like me; you really like me!”) In interviews, Field explained that she wanted to truly celebrate her win, knowing that she’d been at lower points in her career and could easily end up there again.  

Speeches should express what’s in your mind and heart. Don’t waste time trying to impress your audience with famous quotes or a fancy turn of phrase. Instead, focus on translating your thoughts and feelings into language. Practice reciting the speech in front of the mirror or for friends and family. If it doesn’t sit quite right, go back and try again until you feel comfortable with the words.   

2. Be Funny

Everyone loves a good laugh, especially when it’s unexpected. In 1992, Jack Palance won an Oscar for best supporting actor for City Slickers. At age 73, he threw caution to the wind, poking fun of his co-star and Oscar host Billy Crystal before dropping to the floor to do one-armed pushups, which immediately became one of Hollywood’s most iconic moments.

Levity is a great way to get the audience’s attention and lighten an otherwise serious or sad subject. But it’s also tricky. You don’t want to offend or fall flat. Look for natural transitions where a joke or light moment can move the speech along. And don’t be afraid to poke fun at yourself. It’s much more effective than punching down.

3. Make it Personal

Having grown up in Nashville, Reese Witherspoon was born to play the role of country music legend June Carter Cash. So, when Witherspoon walked to the stage to accept her Oscar for best actress in Walk the Line , she shared stories from her own childhood and those from the woman she so beautifully portrayed. “My grandmother was one of the biggest inspirations in my life. She taught me how to be a real woman, to have strength and self-respect and to never give those things away…People used to ask June how she was doin’ and she used to say ‘I’m just tryin’ to matter,’ and I know what she means. I’m just trying to matter and to live a good life and make work that means something to somebody.”

Stories are what sustain us. When writing a speech, make it personal. Share memories and anecdotes. Those will be the parts the audience will likely remember, and it’s one of the most effective ways to get your point across.

Speechwriting isn’t like writing a column or essay. It’s about marrying the words with who you are as a person. When you speak from a place of honesty, you’re sure to deliver a winning performance every time.

Do you get stage fright? Read our Navigate the Media Maze ebook and learn how to shine at your next on-camera interview.

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21 Of The Most Iconic And Memorable Oscars Acceptance Speeches Of All Time

From the hilarious to the tear-jerkers, here's a list of the best speeches of all time.

Acceptance speeches at the Oscars have a reputation for being emotional, awkward, inspirational or, somehow, all three at the same time.

Let's not forget that these are actors and therefore people who make money from being dramatic or creating drama for a living.

So, is it really any surprise that when these actors win the highest honour in their field, things get very intense very quickly?

From Gwyneth Paltrow sobbing in a pink princess dress to Michael Moore berating George Bush, in celebration of the 96th Academy Awards (March 10), let's take a look back at some of the most memorable Oscars speeches from throughout the years ...

The Most Empowering Oscars Speeches

Michelle yeoh - best actress in a leading role, 2023.

Michelle Yeoh became the first asian woman to win the Best Actress In A Leading Role accolade for her part in Everything Everywhere All at Once at the 95th Academy Awards.

In a rousing speech the 60 year-old star told the audience: 'Thank you for all the little boys and girls who look like me watching tonight, this is a beacon of hope and possibilities.'

Holding up her gold Oscar she exclaimed: 'This is proof that dream big and dreams do come true, and ladies, don’t let anybody tell you you’re past your prime.'

'This is history in the making,' Yeoh rightly said.

Ariana DeBose - Best Supporting Actress, 2022

West Side Story star Ariana DeBose gave an empowering and heartfelt speech when accepting her 'Best Supporting Actress' accolade at the 94th Academy Awards.

She spoke proudly of being an 'openly queer woman of colour' and told the audience 'there is indeed a place for us'.

Referring to her early days as a performer, she said: 'Imagine this little girl in the back seat of a white Ford Focus, look into her eyes.

'You see an openly queer woman of colour, an Afro-Latina, who found her strength in life through art. And that is, I think, what we’re here to celebrate.'

Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross and Jon Batiste - Best Original Score, 2021

Zendaya presented the trio with the Oscar for Best Original Score for their animated film Soul at the 93rd Oscars.

'You know what’s deep is God gave us 12 notes, it’s the same 12 notes that Duke Ellington had, that Bach had, Nina Simone,' Ross began.

'I want to point out that every gift is special. Every contribution with music that comes from the divine into the instruments into the film, into the minds, hearts and souls of every person who hears it, the stories that happen when you listen to it and watch it and the stories you share, the moments you make, the memories you create, man, it’s just so incredibly special. It’s just so incredibly special… we’re incredibly humbled and thankful. I’m thankful to God for those 12 notes.'

Lupita Nyong'o - Best Supporting Actress Oscars Speech, 2014

Nyong'o glided up to accept her award for her role in the harrowing Steve McQueen movie 12 Years A Slave, looking radiant wearing a Prada dress and headband which only added to the angelic nature of the speech. Nyong'o thanked McQueen and her co-stars so authentically before paying tribute to her brother and best friend and ending with a message to the audience, 'May this remind you that no matter where you are from, your dreams are valid.'

John Legend and Common - Best Original Song Oscars Speech, 2015

After a searing performance of their song 'Glory', which accompanied Ava DuVernay's Martin Luther King Jr. drama Selma , John Legend and Common took to the stage to accept their Oscar. The duo spoke about the parallels between the march for equal rights and justice acknowledged in the film and song and the people who continue fighting for their rights today. Legend used his platform to highlight the injustices in the American judicial system and urge for criminal justice reform.

Barry Jenkins and Tarell Alvin McCraney - Best Adapted Screenplay, 2017

The Moonlight director and writer gave an impassioned acceptance speech, encouraging young Black and LGBTQ+ people watching to have the confidence to tell their stories.

'This goes out to all those Black and brown boys and girls and non-gender conforming who don't see themselves, we're trying to show you, you and us. So thank you, this is for you,' said McCraney.

While Jenkins reminded viewers that the Academy and ACLU - America's biggest civil rights organisation - were there for them saying, 'All those people out there who feel like there's no mirror for you and your life is not reflected... we have your back and for the next four years we will not leave you alone and will not forget you.' Later on in the night, the two returned to the stage to accept the award for Best Picture, though were ultimately and understandably caught off guard after La La Land was announced as the wrong winner.

Frances McDormand - Best Actress Oscar Speech, 2018

'I'm hyperventilating a little bit, if I fall over pick me up because I've got some things to say,' began McDormand before paying tribute to her Three Billboards colleagues, her husband Joel Cohen and son Pedro McDormand Cohen before asking all the female nominees from every category in the room to stand with her. 'Meryl if you do it, everyone else will,' she said to Streep in the front row.

She then proceeded to educate ask the men in the room to meet with all the women they see standing to listen to their career ambitions and projects before mentioning two words, and subsequently enticing the audience at home to Google rapidly, 'inclusion rider' - a clause in an actor/filmmaker's contract that ensures a certain level of diversity in the cast and crew on a production.

The Most Entertaining Oscars Speeches

Ben affleck and matt damon - best original screenplay oscars speech, 1997.

Aged just 25 and 27, childhood friends Affleck and Damon won an Oscar for writing their film, Good Will Hunting. The pair shouted their speech, as they reeled off people to thank from Minnie Driver to Robin Williams to their mothers, escalated in volume as they became more excitable and aware of the time limit.

Julia Roberts - Best Actress Oscars Speech, 2001

The actress won the Best Actress Academy Award for portraying environmental lawyer Erin Brockovich in 2001 and accepted it with a hilarious speech which alternated between thanking everyone Roberts has ever met (she literally thanks 'anyone I've ever met in my whole life') at one point and battling with the behind the scenes Oscars crew keeping time on her speech: 'Man with the stick I see you!'

Olivia Colman - Best Actress Oscars Speech, 2019

When Frances McDormand and Sam Rockwell announced the former Peep Show star as the winner and she was stunned into the backs of her seat, while being embraced and kissed by her husband, Ed on one side and a weeping Emma Stone on the other, we knew this was going to be a great speech.

Colman did not disappoint, starting her speech with, 'It's genuinely quite stressful, this is hilarious, I've got an Oscar', before poking her tongue out at the teleprompter when she was told to wrap up and simply pointing and saying 'Lady Gaga' at the star and her fellow nominee in the front row.

Daniel Kaluuya - Best Supporting Actor Speech, 2021

During the ceremony, the British actor won the award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Judas and the Black Messiah. In his speech he paid tribute to Chairman Fred Hampton, who he portrayed in the film, and his work in civil rights.

But he then thanked his parents in what could quite possibly be the funniest shoutout in Oscars' history.

‘I’d like to thank my mum,’ he said. ‘You gave me everything. You gave me your factory settings. So I could stand at my fullest height. Thank you so much for showing me myself, and there’s so much work to do. That’s on everyone in this room. This ain’t no single man job. I look at every single one of you. We’ve got work to do.'

At the end of his speech, the star thanked his parents for bringing him into the world, much to his family's shock, who were watching the ceremony live in London.

‘My mum and my dad...they had sex. It's amazing! I'm here!’ he said, before the crowd went wild with applause.

The Most Emotional Oscars Speeches

Troy kotsur - best supporting actor, 2022.

The actor collected his award for Coda , and made history as the first male deaf actor to win an Academy Award.

'It’s a tough journey as a Deaf actor,' he said during his speech. 'There’s so few opportunities out there, and [Marlee Matlin, his Coda co-star] kept on going. She was persistent. And then so was I with my own career as a stage actor. So here I am today.”

The actor continued, paying tribute to his father: 'My dad, he was the best signer in our family. But he was in a car accident, and he became paralysed from the neck down. And he no longer was able to sign. Dad, I learned so much from you. I’ll always love you. You are my hero.'

Gwyneth Paltrow - Best Actress Oscars Speech, 1999

Paltrow was famously tearful when she won an Oscar for her role in Shakespeare In Love in 1999. The star became the most emotional when paying tribute to her father Bruce Paltrow, who was in the audience with her mother Blythe Danner, and who was diagnosed with oral cancer in 1999. Paltrow passed away from cancer complications in 2002 aged 58.

Halle Berry - Best Actress Oscars Speech, 2002

Berry had tears running down her face when she reached the stage to accept her Academy Award for Monster's Ball , becoming the first Black woman to win the Best Actress award in the process. 'This moment is so much bigger than me,' Berry said as she struggled to speak through tears while recounting her acting heroes. 'It's for every faceless, nameless, woman of colour who now has the chance because this door tonight has been opened.'

Jamie Foxx - Best Actor Oscar Speech, 2005

Starting with some Ray Charles vocals in homage to the singer he portrayed in the Oscar-winning film, Foxx then thanked his daughter (who he brought to the Oscars that night) for telling him just before the award, 'If you don't win Dad, you're still good', before a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother, Marie, where Foxx struggled to hold back tears.

Heath Ledger - Best Supporting Actors Oscars Speech, 2009

In 2009, Ledger was posthumously awarded an Oscar for his role as the Joker in The Dark Knight , a year after his death. The award was received on his behalf by his family, who said they had been 'truly overwhelmed' by the honour and respect attributed to Ledger and accepted it on behalf of his daughter with Michelle Williams, Matilda.

Viola Davis - Best Supporting Actress Oscar Speech, 2017

Davis was overcome with emotion as she delivered her Oscars speech for her role in Fences in 2017, especially when talking about the impact of her parents on her life and career. Emma Stone looked particularly teary-eyed at the end when Davis paid tribute to her husband Julius Tennon and their children. 'I'm so glad you are the foundation of my life,' Davis said as she wrapped up her speech.

The Most Political Oscars Speeches

Marlon brando - best actor oscars speech, 1973.

The actor won his award for The Godfather in 1973 however declined his award and gave the opportunity for a speech to actress Sacheen Littlefeather, who used the platform to criticise the depiction of Native Americans in Hollywood. She passed on the message that Brando couldn't accept the award because of the 'treatment of American Indians today by the film industry and on television and movie reruns'.

Michael Moore - Best Documentary Oscars Speech, 2003

Accepting his award for gun-control documentary Bowling for Columbine, director Michael Moore used his time on stage to criticise the George Bush presidency and Iraq War.

An impassioned Moore raised his voice as he said, 'Shame on you Mr Bush' while the audience roundly booed (though some applause was had) and high-profile celebrities like Adrien Brody looked on awkwardly.

Writing about his Oscars speech for The Hollywood Reporter, in 2017, Moore said: ' Later, my wife and I walked over to the Governors Ball. When I walked in, it was like the Red Sea parting. No one there wanted to be anywhere near the guy who got booed off the stage. One board member told me, "Wow, you really know how to ruin a standing ovation."'

However, he caveated that over the years he has a lot more of a positive reception to his speech than on the night in 2003.

Leonardo DiCaprio - Best Actor Oscar Speech, 2016

In 2016, the world waited with baited breath to see if The Revenant star would finally win an Oscar many thought he should have received years before. He did and nailed his speech in the process, using the platform to eloquently pay tribute to and urge protection of indigenous people while also asking for action on Climate Change, which he called 'the most urgent threat facing our entire species'.

Oh, we can't wait for the Oscars this weekend.

The Sweetest Oscars Speech

Brendan fraser - best actor oscar speech, 2023.

Brendan Fraser won the Oscar for Best Actor for his leading role in The Whale at the 95th Academy Awards. The actor came to the podium with tears in his eyes, and relayed a moving, whale and water themed speech that had everyone in the audience moved, telling his co-workers for the film: 'you laid your whale-sized hearts bare so we could see into your souls like no one else.'

Fraser found success in the late 1990s and 2000s, but after 20 years Fraser has experienced something of a comeback, telling the audience at the Oscars: ' Things they didn’t come easily to me...I just want to say thank you for this acknowledgement.'

Emerald Fennell - Best Original Screenplay Oscar Speech, 2021

Emerald Fennell won the Oscar for the Best Original Screenplay for Promising Young Woman at the 93 rd Oscars, and adorably began her acceptance speech by revealing that she hadn’t actually written anything to say.

‘They said write a speech and I didn’t, because I just didn’t think this would happen, and I’m going to be in trouble with [producer] Stephen Soderbergh,’ she admitted.

‘He’s so heavy and he’s so cold!’ she joked about her Oscar on picking it up, adding: ‘So, the only speech I ever wrote was when I was 10, soI had a look to see if there was anything useful from it, but it mostly thanked Zack Morris from Saved By The Bell , my very supportive husband. ‘Unfortunately, he hasn’t been as much a part of my life as I’d hoped, and so that speech is not that useful.’

Celebrities At Their Very First Oscars: From Meryl Streep To Margot Robbie

Olivia Blair is Entertainment Editor (Luxury) at Hearst UK, working across ELLE, Esquire and Harper's Bazaar. Olivia covers all things entertainment and has interviewed the likes of Margot Robbie, Emma Stone, Michaela Coel and Ryan Gosling over the years.

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