After huge hits in the ’90s and 2000s, comedian Brendan Fraser disappeared for two decades.
• Also read: Brendan Fraser: Americans just found out that they’ve always mispronounced his name, but we in Quebec pronounce it correctly
But recently he’s made a comeback in his craft, thanks in part to the film The Whale, directed by Darren Aronofsky.
On Sunday night, the 54-year-old Canadian won the Best Actor trophy at the Critics’ Choice Awards.
In his emotional speech, the comedy actor expressed his gratitude to Aronofsky.
“I was in the jungle, and I probably should have left a trail of crumbs, but you found me, and like the best directors, you just showed me where to go and where to be.”
He ended his speech with his eyes in the water and the tremolo in his voice, with a message of hope that paralleled the story of Charlie, the character he plays in The Whale, and his own.
“If, like Charlie, who I portrayed in this film, you are struggling with obesity or feeling overwhelmed by the darkness, I want you to know that if you too have the strength to just stand up and walk to the light ‘good things will happen to you.’
Since the release of The Whale, Fraser has garnered awards and nominations for her performance. In fact, many believe he’s well placed to win his first career Oscar.