#2: Marie Dressler and Lionel Barrymore (1931)

Many believe the Academy has an anti-comedy bias today, but history tells a different story. At the 4th Academy Awards in 1931, legendary comedic actress Marie Dressler took home Best Actress for her comedy Min and Bill role, proving that humor had its place on Hollywood’s biggest stage.

Beside her, Lionel Barrymore won Best Actor for his gripping portrayal of an alcoholic defense attorney in the drama A Free Soul. Their victories highlighted the Academy’s early willingness to celebrate laughter and intensity, recognizing the full range of cinematic storytelling.