John Wayne Academy Award Acceptance Speech–True Grit

On the evening of April 7, 1970 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion actor John Wayne was awarded his only Oscar. The presenter was Barbara Streisand. He won for his performance in the film True Grit.

Below are the few brief remarks he made at the podium that evening.

Wow! If I’d have known that I would have put that patch on thirty-five years earlier. Ladies and gentlemen, I’m no stranger to this podium. I’ve come up here and picked up these beautiful golden men before, but always for friends. One night I picked up two: one for Admiral John Ford, one for our beloved Gary Cooper. I was very clever and witty that night, the envy of even Bob Hope, but tonight I don’t feel very clever or very witty. I feel very grateful, very humble, and all thanks to many, many people. I want to thank the members of the Academy. To all you people who are watching on television, thank you for taking such a warm interest in our glorious industry. Good night.

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