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The Best 2016 Oscars Acceptance Speeches

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Winthrop chapter.

Last night’s Oscar Awards show was certainly one that nobody will forget. Between Chris Rock hosting, the diversity debate and so much more, it surely was a night to remember.

However, the best part of the night was hearing the winner’s acceptance speeches.

Here are just a few of the best speeches from the show!

1. Alicia Vikander, Best Supporting Actress for The Danish Girl

This was Vikander’s first nomination and first win. She shared her win with the crew and her co-star Eddie Redmayne. She thanked him for improving her acting and being a great co-star. It was generic but really awesome to see a first time winner.

2. Bear Story, Best Animated Short

The writer-director Gabriel Osorio and producer Pato Escala gave an excellent speech dedicated to their country and family who inspired the story. They were short and to the point which made the speech even better.

3. Mark Rylance, Best Supporting Actor for Bridge of Spies

Another first nomination and first win, Rylance gave a great speech about his passion for storytelling and his appreciation for his opportunity to work with Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks.

4. Amy, Best Documentary

Asif Kapadia directed this tribute to the late Amy Winehouse. The acceptance speech dedicated the film to all of Amy’s fans who stuck with her through her hardships. It was very well spoken and moving to hear.

5. Sam Smith and Jimmy Napes, Best Original Song

Sam and Jimmy’s speech was one of my favorites. Smith was so proud of his achievement and so proud to be an openly gay man with such big success. Props to Smith for being who he really is. Napes was so supportive of Smith and you could really tell that they were great friends which made the award even more special for them.

6. Brie Larson, Best Actress in a Leading Role for Room

It was really no surprise when Larson one Best Actress. She’s been picking up awards for best actress all season. Her speech was filled with thanks to various people ranging from her husband to her adorable co-star Jacob Tremblay. She seemed like a very down to earth girl which is why I loved her speech so much.

7. Leonardo DiCaprio, Best Actor in a Leading Role for The Revenant

After a grueling 20+ years in the industry Leo finally won his much deserved Oscar, and his speech was my personal favorite of the night. He was so grateful for the opportunity to work on the film and he was incredibly thankful to his parents for taking him to auditions when he was a child. He concluded his speech with a call to action on environmental issues, going out in true Leo style.

Congratulations to all of last night’s winners. You deserved it! *Anxiously counts down days until next Oscar season*

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Winthrop University is a small, liberal arts college in Rock Hill, SC.