Oscar presentation The golden statuettes, which have since become iconic symbols of Hollywood success, were first presented at the debut awards ceremony organized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1929. Much has changed in film in the last 91 years, but what endures are those unforgettable Oscars moments that viewers and attendees hold near and dear their hearts. Over the years, the Oscars stage has been the setting for tears of emotion, uncontrollable nerves that leave winners speechless, immeasurable happiness and especially the indelible feeling that cinema is not just a job. The mecca of film is still the best factory of dreams in history and at HOLA! USA we invite you to take a magical journey down memory lane by reliving some of the most unforgettable moments from Tinseltown’s biggest night of the year.
First ever Academy Awards – 1929
The first Oscars ceremony was celebrated on May 16, 1929, with a private luncheon at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, attended by less than 300 people, who paid just three dollars for entry. However, it wasn’t until 1953 when the grand gala was televised by NBC. Above, the American star Bob Hope appears at the 1970 gala. Although he never won an Oscar for his performances, he was awarded five honorary statuettes, granted for his contribution to cinema and his many humanitarian activities.