By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel
Adrien Brody’s recent win for Best Actor at the 97th Academy Awards for his role in “The Brutalist” marks his second Oscar in this category, making him one of the few actors to achieve this honor.
Here are five notable aspects of his career and life:
- Early Life and Background
Born on April 14, 1973, in New York City, Adrien Brody is the son of Sylvia Plachy, a renowned photographer, and Elliot Brody, a history professor and painter. His diverse heritage includes Polish-Jewish and Hungarian-Catholic roots.
From a young age, Brody was drawn to the arts, performing magic shows as “The Amazing Adrien.” He honed his acting skills at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts and briefly attended Stony Brook University and Queens College.
- Breakthrough with “The Pianist”
Brody’s portrayal of Władysław Szpilman in Roman Polanski’s “The Pianist” (2002) catapulted him to international acclaim. At 29, he became the youngest actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor.
His commitment to the role was profound; he learned to play Chopin pieces on the piano and lost 30 pounds to authentically depict the harrowing experiences of a Holocaust survivor.
- Diverse Filmography
Brody’s career is marked by versatility. He has collaborated with esteemed directors like Wes Anderson in “The Grand Budapest Hotel” (2014) and Woody Allen in “Midnight in Paris” (2011).
His roles range from the thriller “The Village” (2004) to the action-packed “Predators” (2010), showcasing his adaptability across genres.
- Recent Acclaim for “The Brutalist”
In “The Brutalist” (2024), Brody portrays a Hungarian-Jewish architect and Holocaust survivor striving to rebuild his life in post-war America.
His performance garnered widespread critical acclaim, earning him his second Academy Award for Best Actor. The film itself was lauded for its direction, screenplay, and cinematography, further cementing Brody’s status in Hollywood.
- Personal Life and Artistic Pursuits
Beyond acting, Brody has ventured into producing and maintains a passion for painting, influenced by his father’s artistic background.
He has been in a relationship with fashion designer and actress Georgina Chapman since 2020. Brody’s dedication to his craft and his ability to immerse himself deeply into roles continue to define his enduring career.
Other Notable Winners at the 2025 Oscars
The 97th Academy Awards celebrated a diverse array of talents and films:
Best Picture and Best Director: “Anora,” directed by Sean Baker, dominated the evening with five awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. The film’s innovative storytelling and compelling performances captivated audiences and critics alike.
Best Actress: Mikey Madison received the Best Actress award for her role in “Anora,” delivering a performance that resonated deeply with viewers.
Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldaña won for her role in “Emilia Pérez,” marking a significant milestone in her career.
Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin’s portrayal in “A Real Pain” earned him the Best Supporting Actor award, reflecting his nuanced acting skills.
Best Animated Feature: “Flow” took home this award, highlighting its exceptional animation and storytelling.
The ceremony, hosted by Conan O’Brien, was noted for its memorable moments, including heartfelt speeches and a tribute to cinematic achievements.
