6. Art Carney Wins Over Al Pacino and Jack Nicholson (1975)
At the 47th Academy Awards in 1975, veteran actor Art Carney won Best Actor for his role in ‘Harry and Tonto,’ surpassing favorites Al Pacino (‘The Godfather Part II’) and Jack Nicholson (‘Chinatown’). Carney’s heartfelt portrayal of an elderly man on a cross-country journey with his pet cat was unexpected, as many anticipated Pacino or Nicholson to take home the award. This win remains one of the most surprising upsets in Oscar history. For more details, refer to this article from The Hollywood Reporter: Oscars: Art Carney’s Unexpected Win in 1975.
