Bohemian Rhapsody star and category frontrunner Rami Malek is officially taking home the Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading Role at the 2019 Academy Awards.
Malek's portrayal of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury earned him the accolade Sunday night, as well as the titles of Best Actor at the BAFTAs and Best Actor in a Motion Picture Drama at the Golden Globes earlier this awards season.
"Thank you, Queen. Thank you guys for allowing me to be the tiniest part of your phenomenal, extraordinary legacy. I am forever in your debt," Malek said, during his emotional acceptance speech.
"This is a monumental moment. I am so appreciative to all of you," Malek added. "We made a film about a gay man, an immigrant who lived his life unapologetically as himself. The fact that I’m celebrating him and this story with you tonight is proof that we’re longing for stories like this."
Malek's speech echoed the sentiments he shared via social media upon first learning of his nomination in January.
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Despite mixed reviews and plenty of behind-the-scenes turmoil, Malek escaped a majority of the criticism that plagued Bohemian Rhapsody during its awards campaign.
Competitors in the Best Actor category were Christian Bale (Vice), Bradley Cooper (A Star Is Born), Willem Dafoe (At Eternity's Gate), and Viggo Mortensen (Green Book).
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