Uncle Remus

January 30, 1948, Walt Disney writes a personal letter to Jean Hersholt, president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, suggesting that James Baskett be awarded a special Academy Award for his work as Uncle Remus in Song of the South. Disney is not alone in his praise of Baskett’s performance. Hollywood columnist Hedda Hopper is one of the many journalists who declares that Baskett should receive an Academy Award as well. On March 20, 1948, Baskett receives an Honorary Academy Award for his performance as Uncle Remus. He is the first black man to win an Academy Award.