In a remarkable tribute to Hollywood trailblazer Hattie McDaniel, Howard University is showcasing a replica of her missing Oscar statuette. The pioneering actress, best known for her iconic role as Mammy in “Gone with the Wind,” became the first African American to win an Academy Award in 1940. However, her Oscar mysteriously vanished over the years.
Now, Howard University is shining a light on McDaniel’s historic achievement by displaying a meticulously crafted replica of her missing Oscar. This exhibit pays homage to her groundbreaking contributions to cinema and her enduring legacy. McDaniel’s groundbreaking win was a pivotal moment in the history of African Americans in film, and her story continues to inspire.
The university’s initiative serves as a powerful reminder of the need to celebrate and preserve the achievements of trailblazers like Hattie McDaniel, ensuring that their contributions to the world of entertainment are never forgotten.
—
Photo Credit: LanKS / Shutterstock.com