Legendary actor Jackie Chan will be awarded with an honorary Oscar for his “extraordinary achievements in film”.
The decision was announced by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences yesterday (Thursday, 1st September).
The multi-talented actor, who is also skilled as a scriptwriter, director, and martial arts experts, will be recognised during the Governors Awards ceremony which will be held in November.
Editor Anne Coates, casting director Lynn Stalmaster, and documentary maker Frederick Wiseman will also be awarded by the US film academy for their achievements and longtime contributions to the industry. In a statement, Academy president Cheryl Boone Isaacs also described the 4 as “true pioneers and legends in their crafts”.
Despite starting his acting career when he was only 8, and having starred in various blockbuster movies, Chan has never won an Oscar.
During his illustrious career, Chan has acted as the stuntman for Bruce Lee, starred in various big-budgeted movies, and has been acknowledged for executing the “most stunts by a living actor” by Guinness World Records.
UPDATE (14th November, 10:20am):
56 years and over 200 films later, 62-year-old Jackie Chan is now an Oscar-winning actor! The award was presented by Chan’s “Rush Hour” co-star Chris Tucker, Malaysian actress Michelle Yeoh, and Tom Hanks.
“I still can’t believe I’m standing here. It’s a dream,” said the actor at the annual Governors Awards in Hollywood before adding, “After 56 in the film industry, making more than 200 films, I broke so many bones, finally, this is mine!”
He also thanked his hood, Hong Kong, and said that he is proud to be Chinese. Watch his full speech below:
Congratulation Jackie Chan! We’re so happy for you 🙂
Sources: BBC, Oscar’s YouTube.
