Introduced by Katharine Ross and Peter Falk, Bergman gave a modest and apologetic speech, noting that actress Valentina Cortese deserved the award more than she did.
Bergman believed she won the Oscar in part because Hollywood still feels guilty for turning its back on her in 1949 after her scandalous affair with director Roberto Rossellini.
A remarkable moment
The 1975 Academy Awards ceremony at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles, California was truly an event for the ages.
It had it all – elegance, iconic stars, political intrigue and unforgettable films such as The Godfather Part II. In retrospect, this was the peak of Hollywood’s golden era, when celebrities possessed a charm and grace that seems rare today.
So it’s no surprise that the gala is still being talked about today. There’s one photo in particular that has garnered a lot of attention – even though it’s been almost 50 years.
Jon Voight and actress Raquel Welch pose backstage after presenting the award for Best Cinematography during the 47th Academy Awards (Getty Images)
The photo, which captures two of Hollywood’s most iconic figures – Jon Voight and Raquel Welch – continues to spark debate as it perfectly captures the elegance and glamour of the era. However, the shot also sparked criticism.
On that glamorous evening, Jon Voight was dressed in a classic black dinner jacket and stood next to the dazzling Raquel Welch, who shimmered in a dark pink gown that boldly defied gravity. Together they took to the stage as presenters of the Best Cinematography Award. While neither of the legendary actors were nominated on the night, they certainly made a striking impression on the red carpet.
‘John looks like a creep.’
A photo from the event has since gone viral on social media.
While most people adore the iconic image, some commenters raised eyebrows, claiming that Voight’s embrace with Raquel Welch looked inappropriate. ‘Jon looks like a jerk. Raquel doesn’t look comfortable. Unless they’re a couple it’s just creepy,’ one woman remarked. Another added: ‘She looks like he’s touching her without her consent 🥺’.
Jon Voight and actress Raquel Welch pose backstage with Fred J. Kenekamp, who won the award for Best Cinematography, during the 47th Academy Awards at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles, California. (Photo: Michael Montfort/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
However, there were many who came out in defence of the photo and Voight:
‘I was a young woman at the time, and having a man hold me like that at an event or other place happened a lot, and it was normal. It could be very pleasant, but of course some guys were nicer than others and some were nasty, but that was okay.’ Some of the outraged feelings here just make me laugh. Relax people!’ – one commenter stated.
Another added: ‘Everyone is so critical. If you weren’t around at the time, you don’t have an opinion. If you were around at the time, you know there is nothing wrong with this picture! Gezz, people…..’
What do you think? Is this snapshot a fascinating glimpse into the past or does it reveal uncomfortable truths about gender dynamics in Hollywood?