Viola Davis gave a rousing acceptance speech at Sunday's 18th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards. Not only telling others to "dream big" but "dream fierce," Davis also recognized award winning actresses Cicely Tyson and Meryl Streep.
"I was 8 years old when I decided to be an actor. I am just so privileged to be gazing on the beautiful face of the woman who inspired me that beautiful day, and that is Cicely Tyson," Davis said accepting Outstanding Performance By A Female Actor In A Leading Role.
- see video via link to the left.
Recognized for her portrayal of Aibileen Clark, Davis won one of three awards recognizing 'The Help' and its cast Sunday.
"When I woke up and realized how difficult it was to be an actor and the rejection was so high, another beautiful face graced the screen when I was in college and that was Meryl [Streep]. She always inspires me. I am so proud to be an actor," Davis went on to say.
- see pictures/photos via link to the left.
While she spent a good part of her acceptance speech celebrating those who came before her, following Octavia Spencer, who won for her role as Minny in The Help, Davis did drive home the point of The Help -- anyone can inspire change.
"The stain of racism and sexism is not just for people of color or women. It's all of our burden," said Davis. "I don't care how ordinary you feel, all of us can inspire change, every single one of us."
The 18th Annual Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards aired Sunday, January 29 on TBS and TNT.
Comments