The Californian Century - A Hard Won Oscar

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Stanley Tucci tells the story of Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to win an Oscar in 1940.

McDaniel won the Oscar for best supporting actress for her role as Mammy in Gone With The Wind. But the hotel where the awards were being held almost barred her from attending the ceremony.

Her victory wasn't universally celebrated by African Americans either. She was heavily criticised by civil rights groups for playing a role that perpetuated stereotypes and romanticised slavery.

But in those days, you played by Hollywood's rules, or you didn't play at all.

Producer: Laurence Grissell
Academic Consultant: Dr Ian Scott, University of Manchester

Published on Monday, 16th March 2020.

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