The 93rd Academy Awards brought out the biggest stars in Hollywood. From Zendaya to Don Cheadle, there was no shortage of stars. Making the night even more special, Daniel Kaluuya won his first Oscar and Chloé Zhao became the first Chinese woman to win "Best Director" at the Academy Awards. Not to mention, H.E.R, Tiara Thomas and D'Mile won their first "Best Original Song" Oscar. These incredible moments and much more set up for the show's grand finale.
Heading into the final segment of the show, fans waited with bated breath as the Academy was set to present awards to the best actors and actresses. Many expected to the two stars of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman, to take home the final pair of awards. However, voters within the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences had different ideas. First, the "Best Actress" award was presented to Frances McDormand for her performance in Nomadland. Then, Anthony Hopkins won "Best Actor" for his role in The Father.
After spending nearly 25 years on the big screen, it seemed like it was time for Davis to shine. Unfortunately, the voters failed to recognize her talents. Adding to the night's disappointment, this is Boseman's last opportunity to win an Oscar. There will be no second chances and that made the moment hurt for all of his fans that much more.
In the midst of the immediate backlash, actor Anthony Hopkins thanked Chadwick Boseman during his acceptance speech.
"At 83 years of age, I did not expect to get this award. I really didn't," he said.
"I'm very grateful to the Academy. Thank you. I want to pay tribute to Chadwick Boseman, who was taken from us far too early. And again, thank you all very much. I really did not expect this, so I feel very privileged and honored, thank you."
With or without an Academy Award, Boseman is still the legendary figure we all knew him to be before the award show even began.
Photo Credit: Getty Images