Milwaukee Professionals Association

AND THE WINNERS ARE . . . FOXX, FREEMAN & ROCK

Jamie Foxx, Morgan Freeman and Chris Rock - 77th Academy Awards

Sunday, February 27, 2005

JAMIE FOXX – MORGAN FREEMAN – CHRIS ROCK

>>> Best Actor – “RAY”
>>> Best Supporting Actor – “Million Dollar Baby”
>>> Host - 77th Annual Academy Awards

ACADEMY AWARDS-OSCAR NIGHT
The 77th Annual Academy Awards was held at the Kodak Theater in Los Angeles, California.

The program highlighted this year’s African American History Month with three (3) African Americans in the spotlight.

The three men in the spotlight kept it real and on target.

CHRIS ROCK, the host, was “Chris Rock”, the Comedian.

He razzled and dazzled the audience with jokes and jesters. He was at home with his audience even though his jesting may have been on the edge a time or two. He took a swipe at George Bush – President, actors, himself and Hollywood. They loved it.

His tuxedo with white satin tie was most elegant and it was good-to-look-at on him.

MORGAN FREEMAN is a consummate actor that has been nominated four times before for an Oscar Award. He is a veteran crowd-pleasing actor. He received a standing ovation. I was so proud for him. He commands eloquence without seemingly an effort. It is there. Acting and being an Actor is his calling. Two of my favorite movies with Morgan are: "Shawshank" and "Driving Miss Daisy".

JAMIE FOXX stood extra tall in the eyes of his eleven year-old daughter at the Oscar as he received the Best Actor Award. She was his guest/date/escort for the evening.

In the pre-show by Barbara Waters, Foxx talked about the importance of having family to share the sweet victory of winning these awards. Of how important it is for the family to come together during holidays and special occasions. His deep-rooted ties to family came from "Ms. Estelle", his late grandmother. She coaxed him to learn to play the piano – I am sure he's glad she did.

He spoke highly of the imprint that she put on him regarding, being a man of respect, “a southern gentleman;” and, the importance of thinking, “act like you got good sense.” You could hear as well as feel how important she was/is to him. She died last year close to the completion of the movie, “Ray”.

Jamie spoke of being a positive role model. The importance of bring a Black Actor so as to give “hope”, give “promise” to other African American young. Especially, during a time when so many things for the African American young have so many negatives. I think that’s admirable.

Jamie was nominated for both Best Actor – “RAY” and Best Supporting Actor – “COLLATERAL”.

He had a great year, 2004. He stated, “This is not the pinnacle, just the beginning.” I agree.

Mary Glass