Brendan Fraser gave a moving Oscars speech for ‘The Whale’

At the 95th Academy Awards, good news fell on two Encino man graduates. First, Ke Huy Quan won for his comeback role in Everything everywhere at once. A few hours later, a trophy went to the star of this film: Brendan Fraser won for The whaletaking the Fraser Renaissance to new heights.

Fraser has won numerous awards this awards season, and every speech was emotional. He has been open about the ups and downs of his career, which is now being rectified. This speech was only slightly more tearful.

“Gosh,” Fraser said as he took the stage, which was already a bubbling mess. Along with thanks to the likes of director Darren Aronofsky and A24 for the green light. He also thanked his other nominees: Austin Butler, Colin Farrell, Bill Nighy and Paul Mescal.

“Gentlemen, you have bared your whale-sized hearts for us to see into your souls in a way no one else could,” he said. He also praised his companion whale Oscar nominee Hong Chau, who is so talented, said that “only whales can swim the deep [her] Talent.”

Fraser also reflected on his life. “When I started in this business 30 years ago, it wasn’t easy for me,” he said. “There was an institution I didn’t appreciate at the time—until it stopped.” That certainly makes him appreciate winning an Oscar even more.

You can watch Fraser’s speech in the tweet above.