DYK This Actor Did Not Turn Up For His Second Oscar But Sent John Wayne To Collect It Instead

Hollywood legend Gary Cooper dominated the screen with his strong, quiet screen presence and a muted style of acting, which radiated his persona. The actor, in his illustrious career, won the Academy Awards twice and was nominated a further three times. He would go on to receive an Academy Honorary Award in 1961 for his career achievements as well. While Cooper was present to collect his first Oscar, the actor, however, did not turn up to collect it the second time around. The award, in turn, was collected by John Wayne.

In 1942, Cooper clinched his inaugural Best Actor Oscar for Sergeant York. The film, a biographical drama on the life of Alvin C York was directed by Howard Hawks and became the highest-grossing film of 1941. Despite repeated refusals, York eventually relented and approved the production of a film based on his life story. This decision came after persistent efforts to secure funding for the establishment of an interdenominational Bible school.

Subsequently, Cooper secured the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal, with the film also earning accolades for Best Film Editing. Additionally, it received nominations in nine other categories, encompassing Best Picture, Director, Supporting Actor (Walter Brennan), and Supporting Actress (Margaret Wycherly).

Despite his acclaimed performance in the classic Western High Noon, Cooper opted not to attend the ceremony to receive his second award. Instead, he sent John Wayne, who praised Cooper's character and friendship, stating, "He's one of the nicest fellows I know."

Produced by Stanley Kramer, High Noon was directed by Fred Zinnemann and saw Gary Cooper essay the role of a twon marshal, whose sense of duty is tested when he must decide either to stay and fight a gang or killers alone or leave town. The film, though surrounded by controversy at the time of release, managed to be nominated for seven Academy Awards, winning four, including Actor, Editing, Score and Song.