Sacheen Littlefeather, the activist who rejected Oscar on Brando’s behalf dies

Sacheen Littlefeather, the Native American actress and activist—who is most famous for declining to accept an Oscar on Marlon Brando's behalf—has passed away. 

The news was announced by the Academy of Motion Pictures.

Littlefeather was initially blacklisted by Hollywood, after taking to the stage of the 1973 Oscars on Brando's behalf, and refusing to accept the award he had won in the 'Best Actor' category for his performance in "The Godfather".

Giving a powerful speech, Littlefeather had rejected the award as part of Marlon Brando's own protests of Hollywood's depictions of Native Americans.

At the time, her remarks were met with a little support, but she was also booed by several actors, including John Wayne, who were unhappy that she took a political stand at the ceremony.

Earlier in 2022, 49 years after the event, the Academy issued an apology to Littlefeather.

In response, the actress had expressed joy at her mistreatment finally being acknowledged, stating, "This is a dream come true. It is profoundly heartening to see how much has changed since I did not accept the Academy Award 50 years ago."