James Baskett became the second African American to receive an Academy Award when he was honored with a Special Oscar for his performance as Uncle Remus in Disney’s Song of the South. He was also the first African American actor hired by Disney. Despite the recognition, Baskett faced harsh racial discrimination—he was barred from attending the film’s premiere in Atlanta due to segregation laws. His award was a milestone in Hollywood history, though the film itself remains highly controversial for its portrayal of race.
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