Brendan Fraser Overwhelmed with Joy Upon Receiving Best Actor Oscar for ‘The Whale’

On Sunday, Brendan Fraser was presented with the Academy Award for best actor for his performance in the movie “The Whale”. Fraser, who appeared to be moved to tears, began his speech by expressing gratitude to the film’s director Darren Aronofsky “for throwing me a creative lifeline.”

He was nominated in his category alongside Colin Farrell (“The Banshees of Inisherin”), Paul Mescal (“Aftersun”), Austin Butler (“Elvis) and Bill Nighy (“Living”).

In a speech full of nautical allusions, Fraser applauded the depth of his co-star Hong Chau's talent. Looking back over his 30-year career in Hollywood, he reflected on aspects of his journey that he only truly appreciated once it stopped.

Tears in his eyes, he thanked his children and his partner Jeanne Moore, whom he referred to as his best first mate. His best actor trophy is a fitting climax to Fraser's successful awards-season run, which also saw him win a SAG Award and Critics Choice Award for his performance in The Whale.