Adrien Brody recently added another Oscar to his collection. On Sunday, the 51-year-old was honored with the Best Actor award for his role in Brady Corbet’s film, The Brutalist. While he received acclaim for his outstanding performance, an unexpected incident stole the spotlight during the prestigious ceremony.

Upon approaching the stage to accept his award, Brody took out a piece of gum from his mouth and did something that left fans disgruntled, calling it “disgusting.”

Adrien Brody has long been recognized for his impressive work in film. Even though the 51-year-old actor boasts an Oscar for his past work, his fame hasn’t reached the highest pinnacle of Hollywood stardom. In 2003, at just 29, Brody became the youngest actor to claim an Oscar for Best Actor, thanks to his role in The Pianist. Later on, Timothy Chalamet took over this record-breaking achievement.

Many imagine that winning such an esteemed honor as an Academy Award would secure a plateau among Hollywood’s elite, but that wasn’t quite Brody’s reality. With appearances in notable films like Peter Jackson’s King Kong in 2005, and collaborations with Wes Anderson in films like The Darjeeling Limited and The Grand Budapest Hotel, Brody’s journey was not without hurdles.

Despite his talents, Adrien faced difficulties landing prominent roles like those of his contemporaries Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon. In a candid conversation with Variety, Brody shared that this wasn’t a new battle for him. Starting his career with the PBS film Home at Last as a teenager, he encountered many rejections along the way.

“I’ve had to continuously prove that a leading man can be different, unique, and not stereotypically handsome,” Brody remarked. “But often, casting directors play it safe with more generic choices.”

Unfortunately, many casting agents didn’t believe in his potential as a leading actor.

“I heard it multiple times from my agents, who conveyed it to me directly,” he admitted.

Brody Shines with a New Oscar Win

Though Brody’s name may not be tied to some of the blockbuster titles out there, his latest achievement challenges those who doubted his capabilities. On Sunday, his exceptional performance in The Brutalist earned him another Oscar. In the film, Brody plays Laszlo Toth, a Hungarian Jewish architect who relocated during WWII. In the U.S., he crosses paths with a well-off industrialist, Harrison van Buren (played by Guy Pearce), who quickly notices Toth’s giftedness.

Toth is tasked with creating a community center to honor van Buren’s late mother, but their bond deteriorates over time. The film’s storyline is one familiar to Brody; in The Pianist, he portrayed Wladyslaw Szpilman, a pianist who survived the Holocaust by hiding in his native city of Warsaw.

Brody disclosed that his role in The Pianist, a film over three hours long, was vital preparation for The Brutalist.

“I do what’s necessary to authentically connect with the characters I embody,” Brody shared with NPR. “To truly understand a man on the brink of starvation, you must experience hunger; to capture the essence of a musician, you must learn their craft. It all contributes to an honest portrayal.”

“Adrien Possesses a Timeless Facial Structure”

“The dedication I exhibited for The Pianist, honoring Szpilman’s journey and the six million lives lost in such a dark period, afforded me great insight,” Brody elaborated. “Even though The Brutalist tells a different tale, the character’s immigration struggles echo similar trials, and that knowledge lingered with me for years, enriching my newest role.”

Brody’s performance in The Brutalist fetched him an Oscar nomination and eventual win. At the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles, he joined a prestigious group of multi-awarded Oscar actors like Marlon Brando and Anthony Hopkins. The Brutalist had ten nominations, winning three, including Best Actor, Cinematography, and Original Score.

“Adrien has a face reminiscent of another era,” actress Scarlett Johansson shared with Variety. “His features are exquisitely expressive — ideal for close-ups.”

“Incredibly Grateful for My Journey”

During his acceptance, Brody’s profound gratitude resonated through his speech. With only 45 seconds allotted, he didn’t adhere to the time limit.

“Despite the countdown, let me first express my gratitude for the overwhelming warmth from so many individuals,” Brody began. “Acting appears glamorous, yet it remains a fragile vocation. Having the chance to return offers perspective, reminding me of the industry’s unpredictable nature. I cherish the opportunity to keep pursuing my passion.”

His heartfelt words continued: “Winning symbolizes an incredible milestone, echoed by a sentiment in my character’s own arc, yet it extends beyond a career peak. This accolade marks the beginning of a new chapter. I aspire to spend the next 20 years proving myself worthy of impactful roles.”

Brody Asks for Silence During His Speech

As the allotted time elapsed, the orchestra played, signaling Brody to conclude. Nevertheless, he stretched his speech five more minutes, imploring the music to cease.

“I’m almost done, everyone, my apologies. Please stop the music,” he encouraged with a laugh. “I’ve spoken here before, and I promise brevity.”

Brody emphasized his work’s continued relevance, speaking on themes like war and prejudice. “I hope for a more inclusive world,” he urged.

Off-stage, his partner Georgina Chapman prompted him not to forget about his family.

“A special thank you to my mom and dad, who provided a foundation of kindness and resilience, fortifying my dreams,” he expressed.

Controversy Over Gum Incident

Besides his extended speech, social media focused on another incident. On his way to the stage, Brody discarded his chewing gum towards Georgina Chapman. The action soon ignited fervent discussion online.

“Brody could have spent his speech apologizing for the gum toss,” commented one user.

Another noted, “That was even more shocking than Will Smith’s Oscar moment.”

A third chimed in, “Brody’s wife deserves her own award for taking it with humor.”

Overall, Adrien Brody’s actions stirred considerable chatter alongside the Oscars’ usual glitz and glam. What did you think of this year’s Oscars? Share your thoughts with friends on social media!