Legendary filmmaker Mel Brooks, 97, honored with lifetime achievement Oscar
In a distinguished event held in Hollywood on Tuesday, iconic filmmaker Mel Brooks, at the age of 97, graciously accepted a lifetime achievement Oscar, marking his second Academy Award in a career that has spanned over eight decades.
Brooks, renowned for his groundbreaking satire in films like “The Producers” and “Blazing Saddles,” lightened the atmosphere with humor, expressing regret for parting with his earlier Oscar and promising not to sell this newfound accolade.
The Governors Awards, hosted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, recognized Brooks alongside Angela Bassett, the acclaimed actress who portrayed Tina Turner in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” and Queen Ramonda in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” Bassett emphasized the significance of her recognition as only the second Black actress to receive an honorary Oscar, paying tribute to trailblazers like Hattie McDaniel and calling for an industry that is more inclusive and forward-thinking.
The event also served as a platform for industry veterans and this year’s Oscar contenders to engage with Academy voters. Notable attendees included Christopher Nolan, Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr, Florence Pugh, Emma Stone, Paul Giamatti, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Martin Scorsese, among others, creating an atmosphere of anticipation as the awards season unfolds.
Reflecting on stellar careers, the Governors Awards honored not only Mel Brooks and Angela Bassett but also recognized the contributions of “E.T” editor Carol Littleton and Michelle Satter, the founding senior director of the Sundance Institute’s Artist Programs. The delay of the Governors Awards due to the Hollywood actors’ strike added an extra layer of anticipation for this year’s Oscars, scheduled for March 10, as the industry eagerly awaits to celebrate excellence in filmmaking.
About The Author
