The Most Emotional Moments From the 2023 Academy Awards Ceremony

The Oscars can be nerve-wracking, even for veterans of the entertainment industry, and no matter how hard the nominees prepare for their award acceptance, they usually end up surprised and react spontaneously in the end. This year’s Academy Awards seemed to be particularly emotional in so many ways. There were a number of teary-eyed and giggle-inducing moments that will probably be remembered for many years to come. Keep scrolling to see what moments captured everyone’s hearts.

1. Jamie Lee Curtis wins her first Oscar.

Just like her fans, Jamie Lee Curtis was probably hoping for this moment for a long time, but the second she was announced as Best Actress, her emotions took over. Since Curtis is an audience favorite and this was her very first Oscar nomination, we’re guessing that millions of people shared her excitement for this long-awaited moment. In her moving acceptance speech, Curtis dedicated her achievement to her late parents. Her co-stars didn’t hide their happiness either and the whole Everything Everywhere All at Once crew beamed with joy the entire evening.

2. Long overdue recognition finally arrives.

Brendan Fraser has won everyone’s hearts with his role in The Whale, and Hollywood recognized it too. After a long absence, fans are ecstatic to see Fraser back on the big screen. What’s even more satisfying is to witness long-overdue recognition for his work and share in his joy. Fraser’s tearful acceptance speech will be remembered as one of the most emotional highlights of the 95th Academy Awards.

3. Ke Huy Quan sheds tears of joy as he accepts his very first Oscar.

Brendan Fraser was not the only one with teary eyes at the ceremony. Ke Huy Quan’s reaction to his first Oscar award moved viewers across the globe. He mentioned his incredible journey, from a refugee camp to the red carpet. ’’Dreams are something you have to believe in,’’ the actor stressed in his compelling speech, sending a meaningful message to all of those who are still hoping to make their dreams come true regardless of life’s many obstacles.

4. John Travolta’s loving tribute to Olivia Newton-John had our hearts trembling.

Travolta appeared on stage to pay tribute to all the stars who left us this past year, including his dear friend and colleague, Olivia Newton-John. ’’They’ve touched our hearts, they made us smile, and became dear friends who we will always remain hopelessly devoted to,’’ Travolta said with a shaky voice, referencing the famous lyrics from the song Newton-John sings in Grease. After his emotional introduction, Lenny Kravitz took the stage to perform a very special piece dedicated to actors who are no longer with us, including Kirstie Alley and Ray Liotta.

5. It’s totally okay not to hide sadness.

Angela Bassett, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actress in Black Panther, was one of the strongest contenders for an Oscar in this category. When Jamie Lee Curtis’s name was called out instead, Bassett seemed stunned and couldn’t bring herself to smile or clap, which is totally understandable. Later in the evening, she was back in a good mood, but just for a moment, we were able to see a true, unfiltered emotional reaction, which seems to be quite rare.

That’s probably the reason why many fans praised Bassett for showing her genuine feelings. Her Black Panther co-star, Michael B. Jordan, showed his compassion for Angela when he took the stage at the Oscars saying: ’’Hey Auntie, we love you.’’

6. A very proud moment

When her daughter became the first Asian actress to take home the famous golden statue, Michelle Yeoh’s mother shed tears of joy. The entire Yeoh family, who were watching the live broadcast in Kuala Lumpur, erupted in joy and excitement when Yeoh was called to the stage to accept the award.

7. Rihanna left the crowd in awe.

Rihanna’s rousing performance of Black Panther’s “Lift Me Up” left viewers mesmerized and earned her a standing ovation. The soon-to-be mom of 2 looked as stunning as ever in a black shimmering dress, while her boyfriend cheered her on from the audience. What added depth to her performance was the fact that the song was a tribute to the late Black Panther star, Chadwick Boseman.

8. The sweetest surprise

When late-night host Jimmy Kimmel brought out an adorable surprise guest, a donkey called Jenny, nobody could resist smiling. However, one audience member seemed particularly thrilled. Colin Farrell was especially pleased to see his sidekick from The Banshees of Inisherin appear on stage, and he joyfully blew Jenny a kiss.

For more cute celebrity moments and fun facts about the Oscars, check out our articles:

• 12 Peculiar Facts About the Oscars That Made Us Raise Our Eyebrows
• The Evolution of Oscars Red Carpet Fashion Through Decades
• Jamie Lee Curtis Nominated for an Oscar for the First Time at Age 64, and Her Reaction Is Priceless
• Angela Bassett’s Husband Prematurely Celebrates Her “Overdue” Oscar Saying She’s a Guaranteed Winner
• 10+ Sweet Reunions of Famous Screen Couples That Give Us All the Feels