Octavia Spencer took home the gold last night at the 84th Annual Academy Awards. Spencer, who brought nuance and heart to her role as a southern maid in the civil-rights-era drama "The Help," is the fifth Black woman to win Best Supporting Actress, beating out fellow nominees Berenice Bejo ("The Artist"), Jessica Chastain ("The Help"), Melissa McCarthy ("Bridesmaids"), and Janet McTeer ("Albert Nobbs").
"Thank you Academy for putting me with the hottest guy in the room," Spencer said during her acceptance speech, referring to the golden Oscar statuette. Fighting back tears and thanking her family and fellow cast members, she continued, "I'm wrapping up, I'm sorry, I am freaking out. Thank you world."
Previously known for smaller roles in movies such as "Spider-Man" and "Beauty Shop," Spencer hopes her win will inspire. "I hope it's a hallmark of more for young aspiring actresses of color. I hope that in some way I can be some kind of beacon of hope, especially because I am not the typical Hollywood beauty."
How happy are we for Octavia? Also, will her win help force Hollywood to give more recognition to actresses of color?
