After an epic race to the finish, Cillian Murphy has won Best Actor in a Leading Role at the 2024 Oscars, for his work in Oppenheimer.
“I’m a little overwhelmed. Thank you to the Academy. Christopher Nolan and Emma Thompson. It’s been the wildest, most exhilarating, most creatively satisfying journey you have taken me on over the last 20 years,” Cillian said during his acceptance speech.
“I owe you more than I can say. Thank you so much. Every single crew member, every single cast member on Oppenheimer, you guys carried me through. To all my fellow nominees, I remain in awe of you guys, truly.”
“… We made a film about the man who created the atomic bomb. For better or worse, we’re all living in Oppenheimer’s world. I would like to dedicate this to the peacemakers everywhere.”
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Cillian Murphy’s Road to the Oscar
Unlike the Supporting Actor categories, which have been locked up since award season began, the race to Cillian being named Best Actor was a little tighter, as Cillian Murphy and Paul Giamatti have gone head to head all season.
At the Golden Globes, both actors took home a win, with Murphy being awarded Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture — Drama, and Giamatti winning Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy. Giamatti took home the Critics Choice Award for Best Actor, but Murphy took home both the SAG Award and the BAFTA.
In the end, though, it was Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer that won over the Oscar voters.
This is Cillian Murphy’s first nomination and first win.
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