Adrien Brody's victory at the 2025 Academy Awards was overshadowed by a moment that left viewers divided. The actor, 51, secured his second Oscar for Best Actor for his performance in The Brutalist, but his acceptance was marked by what some onlookers called a "disgusting" act-spitting out his gum and tossing it to his partner, Georgina Chapman, as he made his way to the stage.
Chapman, 48, the former wife of disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, was seen running up to catch the gum before Brody delivered his speech. Social media users reacted swiftly, with many expressing disbelief over the incident. "Adrien Brody THROWING his gum at Georgina Chapman while on the stairs to accept his award is honestly more shocking to me than Will Smith slapping Chris Rock," one viewer wrote. Others called the moment "gross" and "disrespectful."
Despite the controversy, Brody used his speech to reflect on his career and address broader social issues. "Winning an award like this signifies a destination," he said. "But to me, it also, beyond the pinnacle of a career, it is a chance to begin again and the opportunity to hopefully be fortunate enough so that the next 20 years of my life, I can prove that I am worthy of such meaningful, important and relevant roles."
He also paid tribute to Chapman and her two children from her previous marriage, saying, "I know it's been a rollercoaster. Thank you for accepting me into your life." Brody revealed that the children call him "Popsie."
Adding to the backlash, Brody's speech was criticized for its length, with some viewers calling it "self-indulgent." When the show's producers attempted to play him off with music, Brody dismissed it, saying, "Turn the music off... I've done this before. Thank you. It's not my first rodeo." The remark sparked further debate online, with one user commenting, "Adrien Brody managed to say so much and also nothing at all." Another quipped, "His speech is longer than The Brutalist."
Brody's win was one of the major moments of the night, but Anora, directed by Sean Baker, dominated the ceremony. The film took home Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Editing, and Best Actress for Mikey Madison, who pulled off a surprise victory over frontrunner Demi Moore.
Zoe Saldaña also made history, winning Best Supporting Actress for Emilia Pérez, making her the first Oscar winner of Dominican descent.
