Once Hollywood’s biggest star, Charlie Chaplin became one of its most infamous outcasts. Accused of communist sympathies, he was denied re-entry to the U.S. in 1952 and spent 20 years in exile.

By 1972, Hollywood sought to make amends, inviting Chaplin back to receive an Honorary Academy Award for his impact on cinema. At 82 years old, he hesitated—but accepted.

When he stepped onto the Oscar stage, the audience rose in unison. The standing ovation lasted 12 minutes, the longest in Academy Awards history. 

Visibly moved, Chaplin simply placed a hand on his heart and said, "Words seem so futile… I can only say thank you."

He passed away in 1977, leaving behind a legacy of humor, resilience, and cinematic brilliance.