The Oscars kicked off early this morning and it’s clear, that the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite is officially dead. 

Mahershala Ali, a man who’s already won an Oscar and other multiple awards, can add another one to his shelf. The actor won Best Supporting Actor this morning for his role in Green Book. The film, revolves around the on-road journey of pianist Dr. Don Shirley and his driver/bodyguard/friend Tony Vallelonga, played by Viggo Mortensen, through the southern states of America. A journey plagued by subtle racism and one that sparks a rather unconventional friendship. 

In his acceptance speech, Ali thanked co-star Viggo Mortensen and dedicated the award to his grandmother. “I want to dedicate this to my grandmother, who has been in my ear my entire life. Telling me that if at first I don’t succeed, try, try, try again. That I can do anything I put my mind to. Always, always pushing me to think positively and I know that I would not be here without her, that she’s gotten me over the hump in a lot of ways,” he said.

Regina King won her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for the film, If Beale Street Could Talk. She is the third black actress to win both an Oscar and a Primetime Emmy, joining Halle Berry and Viola Davis.

King thanked her mother and Baldwin, the author of the book that was adapted into the film. “James Baldwin birthed this baby. And Barry, you nurtured her, surrounded her with so much love and support. So, it’s appropriate for me to be standing here, because I’m an example of what it looks like when support and love is poured into someone. Mom, I love you so much. Thank you for teaching me that God is always leaning, always has been leaning in my direction,” she said.

(Header Credit – Instagram, @gettyentertainment & @africaonmyback)