Unforgettable moments in Oscar history

A look back at iconic Oscar moments.

It’s the most glamorous night of the year.

We remember the best of the Academy Awards.

The Oscars, Hollywood’s most glamorous night, have given us countless unforgettable moments that have gone down in entertainment history.

From groundbreaking wins to surprising upsets and everything in between, these highlights have not only defined careers but have also reflected the evolving landscape of cinema and culture.

We revisit some of the most iconic, joyous and even controversial moments that have left an indelible mark on the Academy Awards.

Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and relive the magic that makes the Oscars a global phenomenon year after year.

The first televised Oscars ceremony

Photo: MundoNOW Archive

The 25th Academy Awards in 1953 marked the first time the ceremony was broadcast on television, opening up a previously exclusive event to millions of viewers at home.

This pivotal moment transformed the Oscars, making it not just an industry event but a nationwide celebration of cinematic achievements.

The decision to televise the awards was a game-changer, significantly increasing the ceremony’s popularity and setting the stage for it to become the global spectacle it is today.

The impact of this shift continues to resonate, as the Oscars remain one of the most watched events worldwide, bringing the magic of movies into the homes of millions.

The Moonlight mix-up was one of the most iconic Oscars moments

Photo: Jason LaVeris/Getty Images

The 2017 Oscars will forever be remembered for the mix-up that occurred during the Best Picture announcement, one of the most jaw-dropping moments in the ceremony’s history.

La La Land was initially declared the winner, but in a stunning turn of events, it was revealed that Moonlight was the actual recipient of the night’s highest honor.

The mix-up, caused by an envelope mistake, led to confusion and disbelief on stage, but was handled with grace by all involved.

This moment, while shocking, highlighted the beauty of live television and the genuine emotions that come with such prestigious recognition.

Hattie McDaniel’s historic win

Photo: Getty Images

In 1940, Hattie McDaniel starred in one of the most iconic Oscars moments by becoming the first Black Oscar winner, taking home the award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Gone with the Wind.

Her win was not just a personal triumph but a significant milestone in Oscar history, challenging the industry’s racial barriers and paving the way for future generations of actors of color.

McDaniel’s acceptance speech, delivered at a segregated hotel, was a poignant moment of recognition in an era of widespread racial discrimination.

Her groundbreaking victory remains a symbol of progress and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and representation in Hollywood.

The standing ovation for Charlie Chaplin

Photo: Getty Images

One of the most iconic Oscar moments occurred in 1972 when Charlie Chaplin received an Honorary Award after more than two decades of self-imposed exile from the United States.

The industry legend received a 12-minute standing ovation, the longest in Oscar history, a testament to his enduring impact on cinema and the affection with which he was held by his peers.

This moment was a powerful reconciliation and a celebration of Chaplin’s genius, highlighting the Oscars’ ability to honor past contributions to the film industry.

Chaplin’s return to the Oscars stage was a poignant reminder of the timeless nature of true artistry and the universal language of film.

Parasite makes history

Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images

The 2020 Oscars were groundbreaking when Parasite, a South Korean black comedy thriller directed by Bong Joon-ho, won Best Picture, making it the first non-English language film to win the award.

This historic win was a monumental moment not only for South Korea but for international cinema, signaling a shift towards a more inclusive recognition of global storytelling.

Parasite’s» victory, along with wins in three other categories, including Best Director, was a celebration of diversity and a call for the industry to embrace and honor stories from all corners of the world.

The film’s success at the Oscars marked a significant step forward in breaking down the barriers of language and culture in cinema.