On Sunday March 2, Ellen DeGenegeres hosted the 86th Annual Academy Awards. While Ellen’s opening monologue and numerous antics kept viewers interested, the attention quickly shifted to Best Supporting Actress winner Lupita Nyong’o.
The “12 Years A Slave” star has swept Hollywood by storm this past season with her highly acclaimed performance and style. Vogue editor Anna Wintour dubbed Nyong’o an It Girl producing even more press for the young actress. Her performance in Steve McQueen’s film has gotten her attention from many stars such as Oprah, Kate Blanchett and Julia Roberts.
Despite the acclaim and praise from fellow celebrities, Nyong’o displayed sincerity when giving her acceptance speech. “When I look down at this golden statue, may it remind me and every little child that no matter where you come from, your dreams are valid.”
Kenya native Nyong’o confessed during Essence’s Black Women in Hollywood luncheon that she grew up wanting to be “fair-skinned.” She was taunted continuously for her dark complexion. Beauty was a concept that she never believed would apply to her.
A young girl sent a letter to Nyong’o which read:
“Dear Lupita, I think you’re really lucky to be this black yet this successful in Hollywood overnight. I was just about to buy Dencher’s Whitner Cream to lighten my skin when you appeared on the world map and saved me.”
“My heart bled a little as I read this,” Nyong’o said. Her role model was supermodel Alek Wek, who has about the same complexion as Nyong’o.
Nyong’o feels very fortunate to have the opportunity to be a role model for young girls. Skin-bleaching is a common treatment in African, Asian and South American countries. Contrary to popular belief, many adore Nyong’o’s dark skin.
DeGeneres called Nyong’o “stunning” and “gorgeous” during their interview on March 4. Queen Latifah made similar remarks when interviewing the actress in November. While critics may disagree, the public has responded quite well. Few dark skin actresses make their way to mainstream entertainment. Nyong’o is the exception.
Senior Hannah McGaughlin was awestruck by the actress. She tweeted, “I still can’t get over how beautiful that dress was on Lupita last night. Literally flawless.”
When winning the Oscar, the Twitter-sphere erupted with enthusiasm. YouTube vlogger Franchesca Ramsey tweeted, “This is a win for black girls. #Oscars.”