Why It’s Valid to Cry During Oscar Speeches

Brittany Krystantos
Oct 3
3 min read

Dear Diary,

So… I cried during the Oscars again.

And no, not during the emotional montage or the In Memoriam tribute.

I cried during someone’s speech.

Like, full body chills, lip quiver, suddenly. I’m-12-again level emotional.

Here’s the thing: I know they’re celebrities. I know they have stylists, PR teams, and $20,000 shoes. But when someone stands on that stage shaking, choking up, and thanking the people who helped them get there? That hits something deep.

Because let’s be honest — we all want to feel seen.

We all want to be told, “You’re worthy. You matter. Your story means something.”

And when someone in a gown says that into a microphone in front of millions, it kind of feels like they’re saying it to all of us.

Some Oscar Speech Moments That Emotionally Wrecked Me:

Michelle Yeoh (Best Actress, 2023):

“Ladies, don’t let anyone ever tell you you are past your prime.”

She said this with her whole chest — and I felt my younger, scared, doubting self clutch her heart like, Wait… we’re not expired?

Brendan Fraser (Best Actor, 2023):

“I started in this business 30 years ago and things didn’t come easily to me… I just want to say thank you for this acknowledgment, because it couldn’t be done without my cast.”

The man was SOBBING. I was sobbing. My ice cream was melting. Healing was happening.

Lupita Nyong’o (Best Supporting Actress, 2014):

“No matter where you’re from, your dreams are valid.”

I’m sorry, if you didn’t cry at that one, you’re legally not allowed in my friend group. It was simple. Soft. Perfect. Straight to the soul.

Ke Huy Quan (Best Supporting Actor, 2023):

“My journey started on a boat. I spent a year in a refugee camp… They say stories like this only happen in the movies. I can’t believe it’s happening to me.”

This wasn’t just a win — it was a full circle moment for every person who’s ever felt like they were behind, unseen, or forgotten.

Oprah Winfrey (Cecil B. DeMille Award, Golden Globes 2018):

“Speaking your truth is the most powerful tool we all have.”

“I want all the girls watching here, now, to know that a new day is on the horizon!”

Okay. CHILLS.

Oprah didn’t just give a speech, she gave us a sermon. That line? That energy? That was for every girl who’s ever been silenced, gaslit, minimized, or told she was too much. She reminded us that truth-telling is power, even if your voice shakes, even if you’re crying in your car, even if you have zero Oscars and just a Postmates receipt and a dream.

So Why Do We Cry?

Because it’s not just about fame or awards.

It’s about hope.

About resilience.

About someone standing there and saying, “I made it. And you can too.”

Even if your version of “making it” is just getting out of bed today.

Cry during the speeches.

Get inspired. Feel all the feelings.

Let a stranger’s joy remind you that good things are still possible for them, for me, for you.

And if all else fails? Just tell your therapist:

“I cried because someone won an Oscar and it made me realize I still have dreams.”

Totally valid