On Monday, Michelle Yeoh cleared the air of confusion regarding the special Oscar moment involving Emma Stone, Jennifer Lawrence, and herself. The significance of the moment confused many viewers during the 2024 Oscars, where Yeoh handed Stone's best actress Oscar to Jennifer Lawrence to pass on to Stone.
Earlier, five former best actress Oscar winners had taken the stage to introduce the nominees, but Yeoh, last year's winner, was the one to present the trophy. In a surprising move, when Stone's name was announced, Yeoh seized an extra moment to pass the award to Lawrence, who then handed it ceremoniously to Stone.
Yeoh later explained her intentions on Instagram: “I confused you, but I wanted to share that glorious moment of handing over [your] Oscar to you together with your best friend Jennifer!!” Evidently, it was her intention to involve Lawrence, Stone’s best friend, in the honor of presenting the award. She enjoined that Stone and Lawrence's enduring bond reminded her of a personal fond friendship with "Bae Jamie Lee Curtis."
Much to the surprise of many, some interpreted the act as racism rather than a gesture of camaraderie, but Yeoh quelled the allegations, lauding Stone and Lawrence for always being "there for each other!!"
Capping it all, Stone graciously acknowledged all the nominees during her acceptance speech and singled out Lily Gladstone for an extra tribute. She also expressed hope for more collaborative opportunities. Her win speaks to the continued success of her acting career, having picked up an Oscar for La La Land in 2017, and previous nominations for The Favourite and Birdman.