2014 Oscars: Matthew McConaughey wins Best Actor

MANILA, Philippines – Matthew McConaughey has won the award for Best Actor for his role as HIV patient Ron Woodroof in Dallas Buyers Club. 

McConaughey plays a homophobe who begins smuggling experimental medicine in Texas when he learns he is HIV-positive. The role earned him his first nomination and Oscar, after a series of star performances in an increasingly serious series of films.

He quickly praised his rivals for the award, saying “all these performances were impeccable, in my opinion. I didn’t see a false note anywhere.”

After a nod to his late father – “He’s probably up there with a cold can of Miller Lite” – McConaughey offered some straightforward advice for the crowd: “Just keep living.”

McConaughey’s co-star Jared Leto earlier won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in the same film. It was also his first nomination and win.

McConaughey’s win is not unexpected, as he was considered one of the frontrunners for the award this season. He previously picked up the Critics’ Choice Award, a Golden Globe, a Screen Actors Guild award, and an Independent Spirit Award, among others.

His win is good news for many, not-so-good for others, particularly passionate supporters of Leonardo DiCaprio. The actor is perceived by many netizens to be long overdue for his Oscar, with 5 nominations under his belt.

Still, there are no hard feelings between the actors themselves – Matthew went out of his way to give Leo a hug after his win was announced. – With reports from Agence France-Presse/Rappler.com

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