George Clooney is a cool dude. And unabashedly romantic.
He proved it again last night when he accepted the Cecil B. DeMille Award, which is presented annually at the Golden Globes to an individual who has offered a lifetime of goodies to the entertainment industry. Yes, as was suggested by last night’s hosts, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, George is a bit young to receive a lifetime achievement award, but he’s also a stellar draw, and reason for people to watch a show.
Before digging into George’s acceptance speech, here’s a brief history lesson. Cecil B. DeMille. Who was he? He was a renowned film producer, and director who was one of the first individuals working into the million dollar budget range. Keep in mind, this was the 1920s. He made his mark in the silent era, before sound sync recording had been mastered, but flourished after.
He wrote, produced and directed story ideas of epic scale, including the 1923 blockbuster, The Ten Commandments. No. Not the Charlton Heston version. And the film is not just Moses in the desert with the Hebrews. It was as forward thinking as you could get in 1923. In 1956, he made a different film of the same name–the Charlton Heston version–and it is widely known as his greatest work. It also served as his last.
The award bearing his name is perfect for George Clooney, because both men are individuals who get stuff done in the entertainment industry.
George, a guy who is never charmed or easily put-off by bull****, was truly humbled as he accepted the award. He thanked many people, and reminded everyone in the room that by being there, they’ve “caught the brass ring.” And then he went on to thank his new wife, Amal, and put all his honeymoon bliss on display for the world.
To see his speech, check out the video below.