The 2020 Oscars were memorable for all sorts of reasons. One that’s sure to put a smile on your face is the fact that they marked the first time in the show’s 92-year history a person with Down syndrome has presented an award.
As per the Hollywood Reporter, actor Zack Gottsagen, who presented an award alongside Peanut Butter Falcon co-star Shia LaBeouf, is the first person with Down syndrome to have done so.
He was greeted with a standing ovation by the crowd, before presenting the Oscar for live-action short film, which went to “The Neighbor’s Widow“.
Gottsagen rose to fame after starring in The Peanut Butter Falcon. Written by Michael Schwartz and Tyler Nilson, the critically-acclaimed flick follows Zak (Gottsagen) after he runs away from his care home to begin a professional boxing career.
Zak soon meets Tyler (LaBeouf), a “small-time outlaw on the run”, and crosses path with Eleanor (Dakota Johnson) who is charged with taking him home.
Social media erupted in celebration as Gottsagen presented the Oscar, with many hailing it a landmark moment. Indeed, in this day and age disability should never be a barrier separating people from doing things.
We’re so happy to see Zack Gottsagen presenting an Oscar. We hope this can pave the way for more inclusion in the future.
Share this article if this put a smile on your face, and if you were happy to see Gottsagen given this opportunity.
