At the 2025 Oscar ceremony, Adrien Brody made headlines not just for winning, but for breaking records and sparking conversations about his behavior on stage. The actor received his second Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in the film Brutalist, where he portrayed Hungarian architect Laszlo Toth, who immigrates to the USA for a brighter future.
Brody's moment came with his acceptance speech—a record-breaking monologue lasting 5 minutes and 40 seconds, beating the previous record set by Greer Garson when she spoke for 5 minutes and 30 seconds back in 1943 for her role in Mrs. Miniver. During his speech, Brody expressed his gratitude for his life and career, emphasizing the precarious nature of acting. "Acting is a very rough profession. It looks glamorous, and at times it is, but the only thing I have acquired, having received the privilege of returning here, is some perspective. No matter the stage of your career or your achievements, it can all disappear. And this evening is special for the awareness of this and gratitude for the work I still love," Brody stated, reflecting on the fragility of success.
Brody’s acceptance was not without controversy. Just before going on stage, he cheekily spat out his gum and tossed it to his girlfriend, Georgina Chapman, who later revealed she hadn’t even caught it. This moment sparked mixed reactions online, with some users calling it distasteful. Questions arose such as, "Who throws their gum like this? Why not just keep it hidden until after?" Critics expressed sentiments like, "Georgina, you deserve more than this."
Brody’s speech included personal references, as he dedicated the award to Chapman and her children from her previous marriage to disgraced producer Harvey Weinstein. "I share this award with my wonderful partner Georgina, who not only reinforced my self-esteem but also my dignity. To her lovely children, Dash and India, I know it’s been a rollercoaster, but thank you for accepting me in your lives," Brody said with visible emotion. Weinstein, who is currently serving time for sexual assault, had his spokesperson respond the day after the ceremony. Juda Engelmayer stated, "Harvey is happy for Georgina and grateful for the love and attachment they share with their children, which they rightfully deserve."
The mixed feelings didn’t end there. While the audience cheered for Brody, the internet was quick to point out the possibility of Timothe9e Chalamet, who many believed was long overdue for his recognition, potentially having taken the award instead. Some suggested if Chalamet had won, he could have broken Brody’s own record, becoming the youngest recipient of the award.
This year's ceremony was particularly notable as it took place against the backdrop of significant social issues. Brody referenced combating systemic oppression, racism, anti-Semitism, and hatred against diversity, praying for a healthier, happier world. "If the past teaches us anything, it is not to ignore hatred. Let's fight for what is right," he passionately declared from the stage at the Dolby Theatre.
Brody's speech not only focused on personal matters but touched on broader societal issues, aligning with the Oscars' trend of discussing political and humanitarian themes. His powerful performance and record-setting speech have led many to discuss the role of actors and other public figures as advocates for change.
Despite the accolades and applause, the aftermath left Brody facing harsh criticisms online for his on-stage antics. Some spectators were appalled by the gum-throwing incident and felt it reflected poorly on his character. Others brought attention to how he interrupted the ceremony by asking the orchestra to stop playing his off and continue with his speech unimpeded.
Reviewing the event as a whole, Brody's dual achievement—winning his second Oscar and setting the record for the longest speech—marks him as one of Hollywood's most memorable figures at this year's ceremony. Many hope the discussions ignited by his words will lead to more awareness around the themes he discussed, positioning art as the conduit for much-needed dialogue.
Brody's role in Brutalist also marked significant milestones; his performance involved the longest screen time for any Oscar-winning role at 2 hours and 8 minutes. This level of character engagement added to the complexity of the role and showcased Brody's dedication to his craft.
At this year’s Oscars, the ceremony did not just commemorate the power of cinematic art, but also encapsulated the birth of dialogues from within society’s multifaceted issues. With entertainers like Brody at the forefront, the Oscars continue to be much more than just awards—they are platforms driving conversations around pressing issues.