#3: Charles Laughton (1934)

Charles Laughton sits with his Oscar in hand, gazing at the golden statue that marked a turning point in film history. His powerhouse performance in The Private Life of Henry VIII (1934) didn’t just earn him Best Actor—it made him the first British star to claim the honor.

With his booming presence and razor-sharp wit, Laughton brought the infamous Tudor king to life in a way no one had before, making history as both an actor and a trailblazer. His victory signaled Hollywood’s growing recognition of British talent, opening doors for future performers.