Award shows in 2023 were more than just red carpets and shiny trophies. They were packed with emotional speeches, surprise wins, and unexpected moments that resonated long after the final curtain closed. Let’s revisit 10 moments from award shows in 2023 that left us cheering, laughing, and reflecting:
Moments from Award Shows in 2023 –Â
1. Viola Davis Makes History (Again)
At the SAG Awards, Viola Davis cemented her place as a legend, becoming the first Black actress to win three trophies. Her tearful acceptance speech, dedicated to her late mother and “the stories that need to be told,” was a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and artistic expression.
2. Surprise Upset at the Grammys
In a shocking turn of events, newcomer Olivia Rodrigo’s “Sour” album beat out industry giants like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift to win Album of the Year at the Grammys. Her emotional speech, celebrating young artists and embracing vulnerability, resonated with audiences and sparked generational conversations about music and artistic recognition.
3. Zendaya Shuts Down Body Shamers
At the Oscars, Zendaya shut down online criticisms about her red carpet dress with a simple yet powerful response: “My body is not made for a trend.” Her confidence and self-assuredness empowered viewers to embrace their own bodies and reject unrealistic beauty standards.
4. The Power of Community at the Emmys
The Emmy Awards celebrated the diverse community of storytellers with moving acceptance speeches. From Quinta Brunson’s hilarious and heartfelt address for “Abbott Elementary” to Sheryl Lee Ralph’s empowering message for young artists, the night was filled with moments of unity and inspiration.
5. A Standing Ovation for Betty White (In Memoriam)
At the Golden Globes, the In Memoriam segment paid tribute to the late Betty White with a special standing ovation. The emotional moment, led by Ryan Reynolds and Tina Fey, reminded us of her comedic genius, enduring legacy, and the unifying power of laughter.
6. BTS Makes History at the VMAs
The K-pop superstars BTS made history at the MTV VMAs, sweeping four awards, including Group of the Year. Their acceptance speeches, delivered in both Korean and English, showcased their global impact and commitment to connecting with fans worldwide.
7. A Powerful Plea for Gun Control
Billie Eilish used her performance at the Oscars to deliver a powerful message about gun violence. Dressed in a white Marni gown stained red, she performed “Your Power,” leaving a lasting impact on the audience and sparking important conversations about social change.
8. A Touching Tribute to Chadwick Boseman
At the Screen Actors Guild Awards, Chadwick Boseman received a posthumous award for his performance in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” His co-star, Viola Davis, delivered a moving speech celebrating his legacy and calling for continued support for Black stories and artists.
9. Keegan-Michael Key’s Hilarious Monologue
Host Keegan-Michael Key kicked off the BET Awards with a hilarious monologue that addressed social issues with humor and wit. His sharp observations and comedic timing kept the audience engaged and ensured a night of laughter and meaningful dialogue.
10. A Celebration of Indigenous Talent at the JUNO Awards
The JUNO Awards, celebrating Canadian music, saw a historic win for Indigenous artists. Buffy Sainte-Marie and Tanya Tagaq’s collaboration won Album of the Year, marking a significant moment for Indigenous representation in the Canadian music industry.
These are just a few of the countless memorable moments from award shows in 2023. They remind us that these events can be more than just entertainment; they can be platforms for celebrating talent, sparking conversations, and inspiring change. As we look forward to future award shows, let’s hope they continue to bring us moments that stay with us long after the cameras stop rolling.
What were your favorite moments from award shows in 2023? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation going about the impact and significance of these annual events!