Why Brad Pitt Decided to Make His Oscars Acceptance Speech Political

Brad Pitt’s awards season has been fruitful (he won an Oscar, a Golden Globe, a BAFTA, and a SAG ... ), but it’s his witty and eloquent acceptance speeches that have really stood out this year.

At the 2020 Oscars, Pitt added an uncharacteristic political flavor to his speech, telling the crowd, "They told me I only had 45 seconds this year, which is 45 seconds more than the Senate gave John Bolton this week." Pitt's jab was in reference to the Senate’s decision not to hear from witnesses in President Trump’s impeachment trial.

Following his win, Pitt told reporters the allusion was made because he “was really disappointed with this week,” explaining, “I think when gamesmanship trumps doing the right thing it’s a sad day and we shouldn’t let it slide. And I’m very serious about that.”

Pitt also addressed rumors that he’s been using a speech writer this season, telling the press room, “I’ve always been tentative about speeches, they make me nervous, so this round I figured if I’m going to do this I’m going to put some real work into it, trying to get real comfortable, and this is the result of that. I have some really funny friends, but it’s got to come from the heart.”

When asked whether he’d support his and Angelina Jolie’s six children if they chose to become actors, Pitt said, “We can have that conversation once they turn 18.” OK, Dad. “Listen I want them to follow their bliss, and to follow their passions, whatever they’re most interested in and then I think it’s about guiding as you can, but the thing is to try everything on and finding their passion. So, sure, why not?”

Next up for Pitt? He plans to “disappear for a while and go back to making things.” OK, but come back soon ...

—With reporting by Brandi Fowler