Jackie Chan's Oscar dream fulfilled: A look back at his iconic journey

Seven years ago, in the heart of Los Angeles, the film industry witnessed a historic moment at the Eighth Annual Governors Awards. Action cinema legend Jackie Chan, a name synonymous with death-defying stunts and infectious humor, was honored with an honorary Oscar, recognizing his monumental contribution to the film industry. As we look back today, Chan's achievement not only marked a personal victory but also symbolized a broader recognition of action cinema in Hollywood's prestigious circles.

It was a night of stars and splendor when Chan, then 62, received his Oscar. In a ceremony that echoed with applause and admiration, Hollywood icons Tom Hanks, Michelle Yeoh, and Chris Tucker bestowed the award upon Chan. Hanks, in his presentation speech, drew comparisons between Chan and legendary figures like John Wayne and Buster Keaton, highlighting Chan's unique blend of action and comedy that revolutionized the genre.

"I Only Make Comedy Action Movies"In an emotional acceptance speech, Chan reminisced about his journey, sharing "My dad always said, ‘Son, you get so many movie awards in the world, when are you going to get one of these?’" Chan's humor shone through as he recounted his playful banter with his father, a touching moment that reflected his humble roots and unwavering dedication.

Chan's anecdote about his encounter with Sylvester Stallone's Oscar, where he touched it, kissed it, smelled it, was not just a humorous recollection but also a testament to his long-standing aspiration for the award. His words, Finally, this is mine, echoed the culmination of a lifelong dream, a journey from a young boy in Hong Kong to an international icon.

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A Tribute to Roots and ResilienceIn his speech, Chan paid homage to his origins and the people who shaped his career. "Thank you, Hong Kong, such an incredible city, my hometown, my hood, who made me" and "China, my country, I am proud to be Chinese", he declared, affirming his deep connection to his roots. His gratitude extended to Hollywood, acknowledging how the industry had nurtured his talent and brought him global fame.

Also Read: How Jackie Chan's childhood Oscar dream became a Hollywood reality.

Today, looking back at that night, we are reminded of Chan's enduring legacy in cinema. His Oscar not only honored his past achievements but also underscored his ongoing influence in the world of film. As we revisit this momentous event, it's clear that Jackie Chan's impact on cinema is as potent as ever, transcending boundaries and inspiring generations.

(Several parts of the text in this article, including the title, were generated with the help of an AI tool.)