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Year: 1984 (57th) Academy Awards

Category: Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award

Winner: David L. Wolper

Presenter: Gene Kelly

Date & Venue: March 25, 1985; Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

DAVID L. WOLPER:
Thank you, Gene, for that most gracious reception, and thanks to the Board of Governors of the Academy for this most wonderful honor.

Few people have the opportunity in their lifetime to serve their city, their state, and even their country in a single event of joy and friendship. I was given that honor recently during the Games of the XXIII Olympiad. I rejoice in receiving this award, but I do so not only for myself, but [for] the outstanding Hollywood talents and the sixty thousand citizens of Los Angeles and Southern California who volunteered their time and energy for weeks, months, and some for years. They all share the Olympic dream and helped to create a moment in history. In the spirit of this Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, and in the words of songwriters Ashford and Simpson sung at the Olympic opening ceremonies: "Reach out and touch somebody's hand and make this a better world if you can." I thank you.

© Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
[Note: All winners are present except where noted; NOT all winners may have spoken.]

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