Politics were front and center when Hearts and Minds won Best Documentary. Director Bert Schneider read a telegram from a Viet Cong ambassador, sparking outrage. Bob Hope quickly drafted a formal apology, read by Sinatra, which drew snarky responses from Warren Beatty and Shirley MacLaine. Ingrid Bergman’s Best Supporting Actress win was bittersweet. She graciously suggested the award should’ve gone to Valentina Cortese, and some saw the win as Hollywood’s attempt at redemption after previously ostracizing her.
One viral image still divides opinion: Jon Voight and Raquel Welch presenting together. While some admire the glamorous photo, others criticize Voight’s body language, calling it uncomfortable. Whether seen as charming or problematic, the 1975 Oscars reflected a turning point in culture—where beauty, controversy, and change all shared the spotlight. These images still resonate, reminding us how far we’ve come.