The face on Julia Roberts - 'my career will never be this important'...Gwyneth looks vapid as always....Poitier has always been drenched in gravitas and charisma. His power seemed endless when he has young, and it is still evident here. It's hard to believe he's mortal but unfortunately, he is!
@@foto21, none of the younger actors in the video as well as the young actors today can understand how immensely difficult it was for African-American actors and actresses in that time. Sidney Poitier is a hero! The first African-American actress, Hattie McDaniel, who won an Oscar in 1940 as Best Supporting Actress for "Gone with the wind" wasn't even allowed to sit at the same table with European-Americans!
After learning of Sidney’s death today, I had to rush to listen to this speech - as a 26 year old with not much knowledge of the pre-1970 film eras, I must admit I had no idea who this man was or why his role as an actor was so significant. I’m glad I do know now. After watching this acceptance speech, I am moved to tears. Literally crying. The silence swept over an audience of top-tier Hollywood icons says it all. Today we wouldn’t even have half the success of notable African American actors and actresses if - like Sidney recalled - it wasn’t for the choice & courage of a handful of white writers/directors to propel this legend’s talent as he 100% deserved. What a story… what a legacy. May this ultimate icon of a man rest in heavenly peace.
I, too, sought out this video after learning today of Poitier's death. I remembered watching it years ago and being so moved by it. I became a fan of his as a child, and his films had a profound effect on my understanding of bigotry in America. If you can, Ok Girl, try to see my favorite films of his, In the Heat of the Night, To Sir with Love, and Guess Who's Coming to Dinner. I am crying, too.
His film debut in Hollywood was the almost forgotten, great Mankiewicz movie "No Way Out" with an amazing Richard Widmark as his racist adversary. The film was considered potent stuff for 1950, even in 1962 NBC didn't dare to show it on "Saturday Night at the Movies". (Widmark, a fervent anti-racist, apologised after every scene and the two became lifelong friends - Widmark was the first person in Hollywood to invite Poitier into his home.)
"...Before Sidney, Afro-American actors had to take supporting roles in major studio films, that were easy to cut out in certain parts of the country , but you couldn't cut Sidney Poitier out of a Sidney Poitier picture."
That was without a doubt the most magnificent speech delivered by an elegant actor and man. I have loved Sidney Poitier's work since I was a child. He is a pioneer and a legend.
Elijah Espinoza I love Sidney Poitier too! But it would have been good if he had mentioned Paul Robeson, an actor/singer and extremely educated man who, in the 1940s, publicly criticized Hollywood for not having respectful roles for black actors and actresses. Subsequently, by the 1950s, Sidney Poitier was given the role of a young black doctor in his film debut, "No Way Out", and the rest is history!
I don't care if he had memorized that or was reading it off of the teleprompter. That was one of the best, most well-presented, most dignified and memorable speeches I have ever heard. The man was good. Period. End of story. If he hadn't been an actor he could have been a best-selling author with no worries of ever paying bills again.
There would be no Denzel Washington, Will Smith, Samuel L. Jackson or Mogran Freeman.......if there hadn't been Sidney Poitier. A lot of people forget this, and even more don't know this. Living legend.
Sidney is part of the Mount Rushmore of GOATs. Class act of a human actor. Film would not be where it is today without him. Pioneer. Trailblazer. Rebel. Legend. RIP Sidney. Thank you for your dedication to the art of film. Your impact will forever leave a mark on the film world.
WOW!!! What a speech. What presence. He has got all of those egotists in the audience spellbound and silent. "Form is temporary, but class is eternal." THAT IS CLASS!!
People don't speak like that anymore. Now a days, actors imbed silly jokes and political statements, rather than inspire, reflect, and motivate. This magnificent speech touches every fiber of my soul.
Well, one important reason why is....., Sidney Poitier is Bahamian (born in Miami, Florida by chance but was not raised there)...., and many West Indians who are of African descent spoke eloquently, even those who were not very educated, most of the dialectic foundation of the English they speak was that of the influence of Great Britain and other countries. So, there is that. Denzel Washington is an eloquent speaker, but, he was born and raised in Mount Vernon, New York and, I believe, raised in Brooklyn, hence, his more American and rugged speaking style. Harry Belafonte is also of Jamaican descent, although he was born and raised in Harlem, NYC. I guarantee that if you go to any English speaking West Indian island, you will hear plenty of people sounding similar to Mr. Poitier.
When this man spoke, EVERY actor/tress in the room listened. All the cut scenes to the audience show everyone from every generation looking on with awe and reverence for this great actor and even greater man. If more of today's actors took in to account the responsibility and privilege that they've been allowed to do what they o, maybe we'd have more stars like Sidney. Alas the number of these people grow fewer every year as more people turn from talent and dedication to cinematic art to the crude, rude, unpolished, and untalented flash of reality shows and competitions which do nothing to enhance or enrich our lives, merely disrespect and dumb down our intellect and creative pride.
A class act always, groundbreaking actor, legend and a gentleman with so much humility and grace. You will be missed Mr. Sidney Poitier. Rest in eternal peace.
Yes, especially when you compare it to stars nowadays, turning up half dressed, bulging out of dresses, pretending to fall up steps and then ridiculous and tacky acceptance speeches. Sidney is such a wonderful and dignified man, on every level. Every person in that audience is hanging on his every word which is a wonderful tribute to him.
That acceptance speech was EPIC! SIDNEY POITIER has always been and will always be a man who sets a STANDARD for all others to measure up to. WOW! Peace and love...
I've often said there were three men that defined the Civil Rights Movement. Two of them are fairly easy to understand...Jackie Robinson and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The third...was Sidney Poitier. He wasn't vocal, but his presence...being a leading man who bucked stereotype and didn't devalue his Blackness in his films, from Blackboard Jungle to The Defiant Ones to A Raisin in the Sun to Lilies of the Field. He wasn't a token and he wasn't magical. He was a Black man that forced non Black people to see a Black man through a different prism. That had TREMENDOUS weight.
Sidney always played characters of class, dignity, and decency, he was truly ahead of his time, if it wasn't for Dorothy Dandridge and Sidney Portier, there'd be no Halle Barry and Denzel Washington.
@@andrewforte3852 And Mr.Poitier said about another African American actor James Edwards star of 1949's Home Of The Brave there would be no Sidney Poiter.The two men plus countless past black performers paved the way for the current generation of black performers in front & behind the camera.
Rod Steiger once described Sidney Poitier as having "an intelligence and a dignity that is impossible to describe." Mr. Poitier's acceptance speech here truly bears that idea out. One rarely hears such an eloquent speech, delivered with such elegance, and yet one that is such a deep expression of humility and gratitude. He was truly a magficent human being. The world owes him a debt of gratitude on many levels, and he certainly has mine! May you have a well-earned rest, Mr. Poitier!
My mother would make me and my brothers watch his movies when they were on. She held Sidney Poitier up as a shining example of what a proud black man looked like. Growing up in 1960’s Deep South Mississippi as a child wasn’t easy. l recall my mother talking about “In The Heat Of The Night”, especially the scene in which Sidney slaps the bigoted white plantation owner Endicott after getting slapped first. Unthinkable that a black man would do that in Mississippi and live to tell it. I didn’t understand! All that changed as l got older and experienced racial discrimination firsthand, had fist fights with whites because of my blackness and saw the movie as an adult. “Mama, I fully understand now.” I now remember telling her once. And she knew l got it! Sidney Poitier demanded respect and got it! I’m a fan for life. What a great black man!!!!! Rest well, Sidney….😔🕊
He was looking so frail in tonight's Oscar ceremony (03/02/2014), he is now 87. Glad his speech from few years ago is saved to be rewatched. Such dignity and class. Can one receive an Oscar for an Oscar acceptance speech? Imagine all he has seen in his life.
R.I.P. Sir Sydney Poitier. A true one-off and hugely talented pioneer has left us. Thank you, Sir Sydney for your work on and off the screen. You will be remembered for generations to come.
Denzel Washington, Idris Elba, Jamie Foxx, Morgan Freeman, Djimon Hounsou, Forest Whitaker, Will Smith, David Oyelowo, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Don Cheadle, Anthony Mackie, Ice Cube, Common, Chadwick Boseman, Larenz Tate, Laurence Fishburne, Blair Underwood, Tyrese Gibson, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Anthony Anderson, Morris Chestnut, Michael K. Williams, Romany Malco, Kevin Hart, Michael B. Jordan, Terrence Howard and every other African-American actor who are in movies, television and Broadway wouldn't be here if it weren't for Sidney Poitier. LEGENDARY INDEED!!!
Johnny White Correction if it wasn't for Sammi Davis Jr no 1 of black descent would be were they were in the entertainment business including Sidney Poiter did he contribute too the help of it all absolutely but it was Sammi Davis Jr who is truly responsible for anyone who is black hell anyone who isn't white to be successful really .
As a European from the Netherlands, it might be hard to exactly judge and determine the importance of Sidney Poitier for American films. It often seems (though it may be wrong) that discrimination because of race was more visible in the United States than over here. That might not be true, but this is again hard for me to determine because I was born in 1993. What stands as a fact, is that without Mr. Poitier, the face of the movies would have been completely different. He was groundbreaking, he tore down the walls of racial prejudice even before the Civil Rights Movement really took off. In hindsight, his peak may seem short - roughly from 1955 to 1967 - but boy, was it great and important. The classics he starred in are incredible: No Way Out, Blackboard Jungle, Edge of the City, The Defiant Ones, Porgy and Bess, A Raisin in the Sun, Lilies of the Field, A Patch of Blue and of course his trilogy of hits from 1967: To Sir, with Love, In the Heat of the Night and Guess Who's Coming to Dinner. Under the current presidency in his country, namely that of Donald Trump, I often wonder how Mr. Poitier would feel about it. It often seems like a step back in time from an outsider that lives in Europe. We must not forget that African Americans have come a long way and that Sidney Poitier was of vital importance in the growth of their acceptance. Let's not destroy the work that he has done, and let's all stand together against racism and discrimination. Thank you for everything, Sidney. Your grace and class are unequalled. I will keep watching your films.
You hit everything right on the head !! No matter where u came from u analysed his contribution to American & World film culture - & just plain LIFE brilliantly !!
An astonishing speech from a remarkable man,gracious,articulate and respectful, his quality as a man is as inspiring as his talent as an actor.Thank you Mr Poitier.
Best acceptance speech I've ever heard. Look at their faces; not one of them looked away, or looked to see if their 'friends' were applauding as well. They hung on his every word, because of who he is, what he's done, and what he represents. A giant of a man.
When I read his book, "The Measure of a Man", I heard his immaculate and nonchalant voice throughout. He truly is an icon that will be remembered for all time. Thank you Sir!
I am not sure why I keep repeatedly watching this clip often with tears in my eyes, but I suspect perhaps , I am feeling the pain, of a man's journey from an immigrant to mighty global legend, or perhaps a master communicator who can touch the soul of those who care to listen, or perhaps his effortless character-acting skills in all his movies, that left an indelible impact in my heart, whatever it is, this man is truly a Saint amongst his peers. Thank you, for crossing my path, sir.
Neither do I. He was the first actor that showed in "To Sir With Love" also in "Patch of Blue" how to survive and be compassionate with others no matter what race, creed, age or nationality. For this I am ever grateful!
When Sydney started dedicating his award with "....the late...", damn, that really shook my heart. And look at audience! they can't believe it. They are shocked to hear that all his dear friends have come to pass. BEST SPEECH OF ALL TIME.
OMG! Sidney Poitier he is amazing. He shared his award with all the African American actors and actresses that went before him and worked sooo hard. God bless Sidney Poitier. Love him ❤️😘
When we talk of trailblazers in the black community-- it's quite appropriate that Mr. Poitier is always included…can we even imagine the trials and tribulations he faced "back then"? Yet, as he acknowledged so eloquently, you have to give thanks to those who took risks of their own and gave him a chance to shine. His talent carried him, not looks or a six pack…sheer and brilliant talent.
Denzel & Sydney are both honest, high integrity, intelligent , seasoned professionals , actors . Hollywood today needs to be not ; so much in your face bad attitude ! Learn something from this icon of a man .. There's a 1,000 times more opportunity than there was in 1950 .. Sydney Poitier one of the pioneers that opened those doors !
African Americans have been undervalued for too long thank you Mr Poitier for opening the doors. Your life work will still go on to make the World see all Humans as people to accept everyone and not judge by race or color! My heart hurts to hear of his struggles God gave us the right people to open the doors during a time of repression we still have work to do together we will and can make a difference! God Bless we lose a legend today but God has been given an Angel.
Only celebrity I have had a crush on since I was 10, In later years, it became more of an admiration. Very intellectual and wise man with great integrity and depth. God bless you Sir Sidney.
I fell in love with Mr. Poitier after I saw the movie, "To Sir With Love." Then came the movie, Guess Who's Coming to Dinner? I have such admiration for this man. He is classy and man, can he act!!!
I hope you've seen his best and most important film, "In The Heat Of The Nighr". Don't worry, it's nothing like the mostly lame TV series of the same name.
RIP, Mr Poitier. Often times in life, regarding things that we dont think we'd be able to endure or overcome, we say " I couldn't have done it"..and then someone pipes up to say "oh, you really dont know if you could have'. Well, where his journey is concerned, during the era of "Jim Crow" in the deep South, and rampant racism in the 50s and 60s, that was VERY prevalent on the West Coast (including Hollywood, obviously), against black, brown and Asian, I could not have done it...because my humility still has lines that I dont allow anyone to mess with. Sidney's humility and discipline, was "otherwordly". Now, a giant of the film industry gets his eternal rest.
Well said Sir....I am not a religious man or a believer...yet a movie such as Lillie's Of The Field transcended religion and penetrated and affected me deeply...much of that feeling I attribute to Mr.Poitier and his quiet dignity mixed with a wry sense of humour. Truly a fearless pioneer and not only in the movie industry. A man of this depth and character does not come along often. Thank you Sir for opening many eyes !! All the best from Canada
I'm currently in tears. Still mourning the passing of Sidney Poitier. He was my number one favorite actor since I was four years old. I loved him in the movie "In the heat of the night". I thought Mr. Virgil Tibbs was the bravest black man in the world. I wish I could have met him in person just to tell him "you are the greatest".
as the Master spoke I felt a tingle in my spine and found I was enjoying his magnetic voice again under a different umbrella he is so eloquent and classy it troubles me as to why I am not more like him
I have goosebumps, because l have felt personally thanked by this man l have loved my whole life. 'Guess Who Came To Dinner' was my favourite movie of all time. Plus l loved 'To Sir With Love'. A completely beautiful courageous man.
I am from Sri Lankan and was not even born when to sir with love was screened. But 3 decades later watched being teenager. And it still echoes in my ears and mind the memory of that master piece. And it is so rare that a fan feels honored being thanked .
We watched the Defiant Ones last weekend and just watched To Sir With Love. Dignity is what we see when we watch any Portier flick. What a man. I already miss him but feel honored to have been allowed to enjoy his works of art. What a treasure we've been given.
Sidney Poitier I was born in India 1943 not educated came from a family of poverty, I never missed a film of yours and I bought every single film of yours . You are my role model. I am 76 and I love and respect you dearly.
I watched 'To Sir With Love' as a kid and became a fan of Sidney. I am watching this video today on March 21, 2022 only to realize the demise of this legendary actor occurred on Jan 6, 2022.
Oscar Winner Sidney Poitier Receives an Honorary Award ►►ruclips.net/user/shortseuDrod_m6-4
This speech should have been nominated and won an Oscar immediately after
One of the greatest actors on earth
The face on Julia Roberts - 'my career will never be this important'...Gwyneth looks vapid as always....Poitier has always been drenched in gravitas and charisma. His power seemed endless when he has young, and it is still evident here. It's hard to believe he's mortal but unfortunately, he is!
@@foto21, none of the younger actors in the video as well as the young actors today can understand how immensely difficult it was for African-American actors and actresses in that time. Sidney Poitier is a hero!
The first African-American actress, Hattie McDaniel, who won an Oscar in 1940 as Best Supporting Actress for "Gone with the wind" wasn't even allowed to sit at the same table with European-Americans!
Absolutely correct
It was very well said from a great actor and man.
After learning of Sidney’s death today, I had to rush to listen to this speech - as a 26 year old with not much knowledge of the pre-1970 film eras, I must admit I had no idea who this man was or why his role as an actor was so significant. I’m glad I do know now. After watching this acceptance speech, I am moved to tears. Literally crying. The silence swept over an audience of top-tier Hollywood icons says it all. Today we wouldn’t even have half the success of notable African American actors and actresses if - like Sidney recalled - it wasn’t for the choice & courage of a handful of white writers/directors to propel this legend’s talent as he 100% deserved. What a story… what a legacy. May this ultimate icon of a man rest in heavenly peace.
I, too, sought out this video after learning today of Poitier's death. I remembered watching it years ago and being so moved by it. I became a fan of his as a child, and his films had a profound effect on my understanding of bigotry in America. If you can, Ok Girl, try to see my favorite films of his, In the Heat of the Night, To Sir with Love, and Guess Who's Coming to Dinner. I am crying, too.
ITA ok girl
You might look forward to catching some of his older movies... To Sir With Love a nice start.. Enjoy
His film debut in Hollywood was the almost forgotten, great Mankiewicz movie "No Way Out" with an amazing Richard Widmark as his racist adversary. The film was considered potent stuff for 1950, even in 1962 NBC didn't dare to show it on "Saturday Night at the Movies". (Widmark, a fervent anti-racist, apologised after every scene and the two became lifelong friends - Widmark was the first person in Hollywood to invite Poitier into his home.)
🥰
"...Before Sidney, Afro-American actors had to take supporting roles in major studio films, that were easy to cut out in certain parts of the country , but you couldn't cut Sidney Poitier out of a Sidney Poitier picture."
Heavy
Well damn said!!!
Very upsetting to hear. Thank God those days are over
@@jalanemusicofficial4446 bbq l
That’s what I call an intelligent , humble and articulate speech. RIP Sidney Poitier.
I've never seen so much respect from an entire audience...mr Poitier is a legend
Yep
That was without a doubt the most magnificent speech delivered by an elegant actor and man. I have loved Sidney Poitier's work since I was a child. He is a pioneer and a legend.
L
Elijah Espinoza. Amen!👏👏👏
Elijah Espinoza I love Sidney Poitier too! But it would have been good if he had mentioned Paul Robeson, an actor/singer and extremely educated man who, in the 1940s, publicly criticized Hollywood for not having respectful roles for black actors and actresses. Subsequently, by the 1950s, Sidney Poitier was given the role of a young black doctor in his film debut, "No Way Out", and the rest is history!
AGREE
he deserves it
I don't care if he had memorized that or was reading it off of the teleprompter. That was one of the best, most well-presented, most dignified and memorable speeches I have ever heard. The man was good. Period. End of story. If he hadn't been an actor he could have been a best-selling author with no worries of ever paying bills again.
agreed !!!
He wrote too
One of the greatest speeches ever given at the Oscars.
TheBluRayCritic I completely agree!
AMEN!
This is the way a speech should be given! ♥️Love this man.
It's up there with Hattie McDaniels, Jamie Foxx, Monique and the quick and to the point Joe Pesci.
HE'S NEVER GONNA COME BACK LOL LOL LOL CRY MORE 😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😇😇😇😇😇😇😆😆😆😆😆😆😆
There would be no Denzel Washington, Will Smith, Samuel L. Jackson or Mogran Freeman.......if there hadn't been Sidney Poitier.
A lot of people forget this, and even more don't know this.
Living legend.
So true.
Didn't know he was all those guys dad.
420 Blaze Master blaze it my guy
if you were good, you good, if you were a diamond, it will shine one day. ........
Yes sir indeed
I've never seen any actor so loved respected and admired . It's beautiful . A truly great man .
That ladies and gentleman is what you call an acceptance speech. Class
100% such a classic and humbled. Such a legend my goodness such excellence. ❤
“No root had been established to where I was hoping to go..” Powerful words. Your destiny is already established RIP Mr. Poitier 🙏
ROUTE. As in way, path, road. Not like a plant's roots.
Denzel was right on the money about not being able to cut Sidney Poitier out of a Sidney Poitier movie. He was the first black leading man.
Now THAT is a speech. Humble and inspiring. One that truly gives credit to the person who ultimately received the award. Wonderful.
Sidney is part of the Mount Rushmore of GOATs. Class act of a human actor. Film would not be where it is today without him. Pioneer. Trailblazer. Rebel. Legend. RIP Sidney. Thank you for your dedication to the art of film. Your impact will forever leave a mark on the film world.
SIDNEY POITIER IS IN HELL LMAO 🤣 😂 😆 💀 😅 😭 🤣 😂 😆 💀 😅 😭 🤣 😂 😆
Meh!
A good enough actor but heavily overrated as a man.
When Sidney Poitier Speaks, Time Stands Still! A true Legend!,
WOW!!! What a speech. What presence. He has got all of those egotists in the audience spellbound and silent. "Form is temporary, but class is eternal." THAT IS CLASS!!
And to that, I say "Amen, Amen and Amen."
All he did was thank others in this speech, despite being an absolute legend himself. Total class 100%.
People don't speak like that anymore. Now a days, actors imbed silly jokes and political statements, rather than inspire, reflect, and motivate. This magnificent speech touches every fiber of my soul.
Imagine thinking Sidney Poitier was not and is not political. Dumb as all hell.
Thank you for speaking what I was thinking.
U r 100 percent right and Mr Washington is a true man God bless both of them
Well, one important reason why is....., Sidney Poitier is Bahamian (born in Miami, Florida by chance but was not raised there)...., and many West Indians who are of African descent spoke eloquently, even those who were not very educated, most of the dialectic foundation of the English they speak was that of the influence of Great Britain and other countries. So, there is that. Denzel Washington is an eloquent speaker, but, he was born and raised in Mount Vernon, New York and, I believe, raised in Brooklyn, hence, his more American and rugged speaking style. Harry Belafonte is also of Jamaican descent, although he was born and raised in Harlem, NYC. I guarantee that if you go to any English speaking West Indian island, you will hear plenty of people sounding similar to Mr. Poitier.
Absolutely right.
When this man spoke, EVERY actor/tress in the room listened. All the cut scenes to the audience show everyone from every generation looking on with awe and reverence for this great actor and even greater man. If more of today's actors took in to account the responsibility and privilege that they've been allowed to do what they o, maybe we'd have more stars like Sidney. Alas the number of these people grow fewer every year as more people turn from talent and dedication to cinematic art to the crude, rude, unpolished, and untalented flash of reality shows and competitions which do nothing to enhance or enrich our lives, merely disrespect and dumb down our intellect and creative pride.
True
Very well said
SO TRUE!
Well said 👏 👌 👍
Alas, so very true. They grow fewer - now we've lost Sir Sidney, R.I.P. The giants are fading out.
A class act always, groundbreaking actor, legend and a gentleman with so much humility and grace. You will be missed Mr. Sidney Poitier. Rest in eternal peace.
surely the greatest acceptance speech in the history of the Oscars!
See
Yes, especially when you compare it to stars nowadays, turning up half dressed, bulging out of dresses, pretending to fall up steps and then ridiculous and tacky acceptance speeches. Sidney is such a wonderful and dignified man, on every level. Every person in that audience is hanging on his every word which is a wonderful tribute to him.
Condolences to his family and all who loved him. Gone, but never to be forgotten. A magnificent human!
That acceptance speech was EPIC! SIDNEY POITIER has always been and will always be a man who sets a STANDARD for all others to measure up to. WOW!
Peace and love...
I've often said there were three men that defined the Civil Rights Movement. Two of them are fairly easy to understand...Jackie Robinson and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The third...was Sidney Poitier. He wasn't vocal, but his presence...being a leading man who bucked stereotype and didn't devalue his Blackness in his films, from Blackboard Jungle to The Defiant Ones to A Raisin in the Sun to Lilies of the Field. He wasn't a token and he wasn't magical. He was a Black man that forced non Black people to see a Black man through a different prism. That had TREMENDOUS weight.
I can sum up Sidney Poitier in one word. DIGNITY
Simply the best respect a truly great
Class
Wayne Johanson couple more words for mr. Poitier class and elegance.
Sidney always played characters of class, dignity, and decency, he was truly ahead of his time, if it wasn't for Dorothy Dandridge and Sidney Portier, there'd be no Halle Barry and Denzel Washington.
@@andrewforte3852 And Mr.Poitier said about another African American actor James Edwards star of 1949's Home Of The Brave there would be no Sidney Poiter.The two men plus countless past black performers paved the way for the current generation of black performers in front & behind the camera.
Rod Steiger once described Sidney Poitier as having "an intelligence and a dignity that is impossible to describe." Mr. Poitier's acceptance speech here truly bears that idea out. One rarely hears such an eloquent speech, delivered with such elegance, and yet one that is such a deep expression of humility and gratitude. He was truly a magficent human being. The world owes him a debt of gratitude on many levels, and he certainly has mine! May you have a well-earned rest, Mr. Poitier!
Wow, he talks like he is in a Shakespeare play, amazing.
My mother would make me and my brothers watch his movies when they were on. She held Sidney Poitier up as a shining example of what a proud black man looked like. Growing up in 1960’s Deep South Mississippi as a child wasn’t easy. l recall my mother talking about “In The Heat Of The Night”, especially the scene in which Sidney slaps the bigoted white plantation owner Endicott after getting slapped first. Unthinkable that a black man would do that in Mississippi and live to tell it. I didn’t understand! All that changed as l got older and experienced racial discrimination firsthand, had fist fights with whites because of my blackness and saw the movie as an adult. “Mama, I fully understand now.” I now remember telling her once. And she knew l got it! Sidney Poitier demanded respect and got it! I’m a fan for life. What a great black man!!!!! Rest well, Sidney….😔🕊
BRAVO BRAVO! what a speech, what a man! Bless you Mister Poitier! You deserve it!
sugar love he is living isn't death
@@silviaspini4318:
Oh Sweetie, Sugar didn't say he was dead...just LOADS & LOADS OF 💞💞💞
it's much longer than his first :)
He always spelled grace, elegance as well as talent. What a magnificent man.
He was looking so frail in tonight's Oscar ceremony (03/02/2014), he is now 87. Glad his speech from few years ago is saved to be rewatched. Such dignity and class. Can one receive an Oscar for an Oscar acceptance speech? Imagine all he has seen in his life.
It’s crazy now Sidney Poitier is 92 years old and will be 93 this month.
Still alive at 94 to this day.
@@maidahaltrecht6577 sorry to tell you Maida 😔😔😔😭😭😭 Hé has passed on
@@juliashireen6195 I know. I found out on facebook.
@@maidahaltrecht6577 So sad 😭😭😭😭😭
R.I.P. Sir Sydney Poitier. A true one-off and hugely talented pioneer has left us. Thank you, Sir Sydney for your work on and off the screen. You will be remembered for generations to come.
Denzel Washington, Idris Elba, Jamie Foxx, Morgan Freeman, Djimon Hounsou, Forest Whitaker, Will Smith, David Oyelowo, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Don Cheadle, Anthony Mackie, Ice Cube, Common, Chadwick Boseman, Larenz Tate, Laurence Fishburne, Blair Underwood, Tyrese Gibson, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Anthony Anderson, Morris Chestnut, Michael K. Williams, Romany Malco, Kevin Hart, Michael B. Jordan, Terrence Howard and every other African-American actor who are in movies, television and Broadway wouldn't be here if it weren't for Sidney Poitier. LEGENDARY INDEED!!!
yeah if poitier had never been born not a single one of them would be actors today
Johnny White Idris Elba and some others you listed aren't African American, but black British actors
Kumail Shah They are still of African descent
Johnny White Correction if it wasn't for Sammi Davis Jr no 1 of black descent would be were they were in the entertainment business including Sidney Poiter did he contribute too the help of it all absolutely but it was Sammi Davis Jr who is truly responsible for anyone who is black hell anyone who isn't white to be successful really .
You can't know that.
For all you know they might've been more famous Sidney didn't break through..
Just heard about his passing, what an amazing person, literally changed Cinema forever, just by being on the screen, a legend.
Such an inspiring and remarkable man. You paved the way for people of colour all around the world, and I wish you all the best in life.
Just say in America bro
Poitier's influence has truly been felt worldwide.
He is such a gentleman, I absolutely admire him, he has always been one of my favorite actors!!!!!
TO SIR, WITH LOVE.
He was one of a kind nobody could ever match up to him I grieve Him passing away He will always be remembered with true love from all of us
one of the finest actor who broke the norms of his time to achieve what he stood for.
As a European from the Netherlands, it might be hard to exactly judge and determine the importance of Sidney Poitier for American films. It often seems (though it may be wrong) that discrimination because of race was more visible in the United States than over here. That might not be true, but this is again hard for me to determine because I was born in 1993. What stands as a fact, is that without Mr. Poitier, the face of the movies would have been completely different. He was groundbreaking, he tore down the walls of racial prejudice even before the Civil Rights Movement really took off. In hindsight, his peak may seem short - roughly from 1955 to 1967 - but boy, was it great and important. The classics he starred in are incredible: No Way Out, Blackboard Jungle, Edge of the City, The Defiant Ones, Porgy and Bess, A Raisin in the Sun, Lilies of the Field, A Patch of Blue and of course his trilogy of hits from 1967: To Sir, with Love, In the Heat of the Night and Guess Who's Coming to Dinner. Under the current presidency in his country, namely that of Donald Trump, I often wonder how Mr. Poitier would feel about it. It often seems like a step back in time from an outsider that lives in Europe. We must not forget that African Americans have come a long way and that Sidney Poitier was of vital importance in the growth of their acceptance. Let's not destroy the work that he has done, and let's all stand together against racism and discrimination. Thank you for everything, Sidney. Your grace and class are unequalled. I will keep watching your films.
Hear Hear!
Beautiful
Donald Trump????????
Mr. Poitier is a symbol of honor, dignity, courage, and grace. Mr. Trump is a symbol of....
You hit everything right on the head !! No matter where u came from u analysed his contribution to American & World film culture - & just plain LIFE brilliantly !!
A fine actor, A fine man...
Words can’t express how much love and respect I have for this actor. What an incredible speech!
I love Sidney Poitiers Great actor Great human being. Loved his movies
An astonishing speech from a remarkable man,gracious,articulate and respectful, his quality as a man is as inspiring as his talent as an actor.Thank you Mr Poitier.
Best acceptance speech I've ever heard. Look at their faces; not one of them looked away, or looked to see if their 'friends' were applauding as well. They hung on his every word, because of who he is, what he's done, and what he represents. A giant of a man.
Perfectly said.
Timeless elegance and poise...the best honorary award speech I've ever heard.
A real gentleman, who expresses gratitude, and appreciation for the best in humanity's decency. A gentleman to the end.
When I read his book, "The Measure of a Man", I heard his immaculate and nonchalant voice throughout. He truly is an icon that will be remembered for all time. Thank you Sir!
Rest in peace Sir Potier. Carried an entire new generation to greatness
Stunning speech! I saw it live in 2002 but it means so much more today!
I am not sure why I keep repeatedly watching this clip often with tears in my eyes, but I suspect perhaps , I am feeling the pain, of a man's journey from an immigrant to mighty global legend, or perhaps a master communicator who can touch the soul of those who care to listen, or perhaps his effortless character-acting skills in all his movies, that left an indelible impact in my heart, whatever it is, this man is truly a Saint amongst his peers. Thank you, for crossing my path, sir.
You're not alone 👍🏾.
I feel same way you do good to hear lam not alone in my feelings your comment is Oscar worthy with tears in eyes what a loss my friend ❤ 7:34
As classy a person who has ever walked this earth.
Fatima Aziz fuck you
And sooooo handsome.
So classy and so unassuming. A true gentleman.
A gift from God, to any human being in need of inspiration and a lesson in Grace!
I would love to my
Arms around him give him a hug
RIP Sidney Poitier (February 20, 1927 - January 6, 2022), aged 94
You will be remembered as a legend.
It's a shame everyone gets old. I never get tired of seeing his movies - what a talent.
Neither do I. He was the first actor that showed in "To Sir With Love" also in
"Patch of Blue" how to survive and be compassionate with others no matter what race, creed, age or nationality. For this I am ever grateful!
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner i was able to watch
@@crisgildagarcia993 No Way Out was great film about race in the U.S. 70 years old, still a great film with great actors.
If you're watching this, You could know that today we're saying a farewell to a Great Man. One who set the first path.
And THAT is how you accept an award....
A memorable speech by a memorable actor.
Sidney Poitier, a true inspiration for mankind.
What an incredible speech from a truly incredible man.
A speech that touches both my heart and soul…Thank you Mr.Poitier…
You know a guy is beyond being "boss" when he makes a speech about himself getting a lifetime achievement award, about others! Respect!
Exactly❤
The only man, other than my late father, that I've ever loved. And to me, the best actor ever.
When Sydney started dedicating his award with "....the late...", damn, that really shook my heart. And look at audience! they can't believe it. They are shocked to hear that all his dear friends have come to pass. BEST SPEECH OF ALL TIME.
OMG! Sidney Poitier he is amazing. He shared his award with all the African American actors and actresses that went before him and worked sooo hard. God bless Sidney Poitier. Love him ❤️😘
When we talk of trailblazers in the black community-- it's quite appropriate that Mr. Poitier is always included…can we even imagine the trials and tribulations he faced "back then"? Yet, as he acknowledged so eloquently, you have to give thanks to those who took risks of their own and gave him a chance to shine. His talent carried him, not looks or a six pack…sheer and brilliant talent.
What a great loss!!! One of the very few that really deserved the title 'SIR'! R.I.P. brilliant man!!! Farewell!!!!!
This man is the man of class with respect.
One of the greats and he’ll be surely missed. R.I.P.
When I think of Denzel Washington, I think of Sydney Poitier.
I love denzil washingtons role in glory. He won an oscar for it
.. and when i think of Sidney Poitier i think of Nelson Mandela .. and vice versa ..
he can not be matched with Sidney Poitier.....
Every actor will be chasing Poitier he blazed the trail for all black American actors to achieve in the movie industry.
Denzel & Sydney are both honest,
high integrity, intelligent , seasoned professionals , actors .
Hollywood today needs to be not ;
so much in your face bad attitude !
Learn something from this icon of a man .. There's a 1,000 times more
opportunity than there was in 1950 ..
Sydney Poitier one of the pioneers
that opened those doors !
African Americans have been undervalued for too long thank you Mr Poitier for opening the doors. Your life work will still go on to make the World see all Humans as people to accept everyone and not judge by race or color! My heart hurts to hear of his struggles God gave us the right people to open the doors during a time of repression we still have work to do together we will and can make a difference! God Bless we lose a legend today but God has been given an Angel.
Sidney is one the most influential people in my life, and he is the wisest person I've never met.
That speech today is more poignant than ever before… Thank you 🙏 Sidney
Only celebrity I have had a crush on since I was 10, In later years, it became more of an admiration. Very intellectual and wise man with great integrity and depth. God bless you Sir Sidney.
Such grace and class! Breathtaking. Rip Sidney Poitier.
I fell in love with Mr. Poitier after I saw the movie, "To Sir With Love." Then came the movie, Guess Who's Coming to Dinner? I have such admiration for this man. He is classy and man, can he act!!!
Me too..!
I hope you've seen his best and most important film, "In The Heat Of The Nighr". Don't worry, it's nothing like the mostly lame TV series of the same name.
RIP, Mr Poitier. Often times in life, regarding things that we dont think we'd be able to endure or overcome, we say " I couldn't have done it"..and then someone pipes up to say "oh, you really dont know if you could have'. Well, where his journey is concerned, during the era of "Jim Crow" in the deep South, and rampant racism in the 50s and 60s, that was VERY prevalent on the West Coast (including Hollywood, obviously), against black, brown and Asian, I could not have done it...because my humility still has lines that I dont allow anyone to mess with. Sidney's humility and discipline, was "otherwordly". Now, a giant of the film industry gets his eternal rest.
Well said Sir....I am not a religious man or a believer...yet a movie such as Lillie's Of The Field transcended religion and penetrated and affected me deeply...much of that feeling I attribute to Mr.Poitier and his quiet dignity mixed with a wry sense of humour. Truly a fearless pioneer and not only in the movie industry. A man of this depth and character does not come along often. Thank you Sir for opening many eyes !! All the best from Canada
RIP SIR POITIER. YOU WERE ELEGANT, CLASSY, DIGNIFIED AND A TRAILBLAZER.
What an unselfish , dignified, profound, and truthful speech! RIP Sir Sydney Poitier.
A true legend...
That was some deserved standing ovation 👏🏽 Great work he’s had.. Unfortunately today the man has died… Legend
Poitier is love, Poiter is life. Your my hero! ♥♥
One of his greatest accomplishments 2 decades ago, R.I.P. Sidney Poitier...sir. 🙏🏽🙏🏽👼🏽
Great actor, great role model. You were truly a trail blazer RIP and never forgotten.
RIP Sidney Poitier, a great actor and an equally great human being.
One of the most talented/graceful/intelligent actors EVER.
Mr. Sidney Poitier, I salute you:D!
I'm currently in tears. Still mourning the passing of Sidney Poitier. He was my number one favorite actor since I was four years old. I loved him in the movie "In the heat of the night". I thought Mr. Virgil Tibbs was the bravest black man in the world. I wish I could have met him in person just to tell him "you are the greatest".
Total class act. A film hero to all colors. God bless him.
My favorite actor, my first crush, an elegant, classy and supremely talented man.
as the Master spoke I felt a tingle in my spine and found I was enjoying his magnetic voice again under a different umbrella
he is so eloquent and classy it troubles me as to why I am not more like him
They don't make them like that anymore!.Just too beautiful. This gentleman is the epitomy of grace, kindness and most importantly humanity.
I have goosebumps, because l have felt personally thanked by this man l have loved my whole life. 'Guess Who Came To Dinner' was my favourite movie of all time. Plus l loved 'To Sir With Love'. A completely beautiful courageous man.
Spot on
I am from Sri Lankan and was not even born when to sir with love was screened. But 3 decades later watched being teenager. And it still echoes in my ears and mind the memory of that master piece. And it is so rare that a fan feels honored being thanked .
We watched the Defiant Ones last weekend and just watched To Sir With Love. Dignity is what we see when we watch any Portier flick. What a man. I already miss him but feel honored to have been allowed to enjoy his works of art. What a treasure we've been given.
I got a chance to meet him, he so humble and humorous, a great man
Wow...how Fortunate to be n the Presence of such...ROYALTY!!!
Sidney Poitier I was born in India 1943 not educated came from a family of poverty, I never missed a film of yours and I bought every single film of yours . You are my role model. I am 76 and I love and respect you dearly.
Awesome human being, an inspiration to all.
I watched 'To Sir With Love' as a kid and became a fan of Sidney. I am watching this video today on March 21, 2022 only to realize the demise of this legendary actor occurred on Jan 6, 2022.
Just plain class
I like to watch this from time to time: the elegance, the dignity, the class. What a human being!
It was so beautiful and everybody's was about to cry!Moving moment!
Yes i agree, Halle berry, Jada pinkett, etc it was a moving moment he's a legend in the business period, had me shedding a few tears
This warmed my heart. Rest peacefully, kind sir. ❤🙏🏾
To Sir With Love!!!!!