50 years have passed since the historic moment when Marlon Brando rejected the Oscar for Best Actor for "The Godfather."
This unforgettable incident, which occurred on March 27, 1973, continues to be a topic of discussion, marking a rebellion that left a lasting impact on the Academy Awards.
In 1972, "The Godfather" revolutionized gangster cinema, with Francis Ford Coppola directing and Marlon Brando portraying the iconic Vito Corleone. Despite initial reluctance from Paramount, the film became a milestone, and Brando's unique portrayal, including the memorable use of cotton in his mouth, left an indelible mark on cinematic history.
The Oscar ceremony that followed was the first to be televised live, adding to its significance. When Brando's name was called, activist Sacheen Littlefeather took the stage on his behalf. Dressed in traditional Aboriginal clothing, she declined the Oscar, citing Brando's refusal due to the mistreatment of American Indians in the film industry and on television. Littlefeather, part of the American Indian Movement advocating for indigenous rights, was both applauded and met with criticism.
The controversy surrounding Brando's rejection persisted. In the subsequent year, the Academy nominated him again for Best Actor in "Last Tango in Paris." Despite his continued status as a provocative figure in the industry, Brando received another nomination in 1990 for Best Supporting Actor in "A Dry White Season." He passed away in 2004 at the age of 80.
Sacheen Littlefeather, the messenger of Brando's public rejection, passed away in October 2022 at the age of 75. Before her death, the Academy issued an apology, acknowledging the undeserved abuse she endured and the toll it took on her career. David Rubin, president of the Academy, expressed regret for the emotional burden Littlefeather endured as a result of her role in this historic event.
