During Sunday night's Oscars, several winners decided to make political statements. Brad Pitt, who won the best-supporting actor award for his role in "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," took a jab at Republican senators who voted against calling witnesses in President Trump's impeachment trial. Pitt mentioned that he only had 45 seconds to speak, which was more time than the Senate gave to John Bolton, who claimed he was willing to testify. Joaquin Phoenix, who won the best actor award, used his acceptance speech to address issues like gender inequality, racism, and animal rights. He specifically criticized the exploitation of cows for milk production.

Additionally, Julia Reichert, co-director of the documentary "American Factory," referenced Karl Marx in her speech about workers' rights. Overall, Pitt's political tone differed from his previous wins, as he kept his speech more somber and serious. He thanked his children, Quentin Tarantino, and Leonardo DiCaprio in his acceptance speech.