He spoke about what his win meant to him while backstage at the Oscars.
“The one thing I can say about this, as an actor, there are so many of us who dream of one thing. Perhaps it’s not this, it’s just getting a job,” he said. “The fact that I have this is beyond any expectation that myself or my family could have ever had. I’ll just say that.”
He added, “This has been a tough battle and the fact that I’m here is proof that anything is possible. Tonight I’m celebrating with all of you and anyone who has had a dream.”
Malek missed out on posing with his fellow actors Mahershala Ali, Regina King and Olivia Colman, who won for Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress and Best Actress, respectively.
The actor won Best Actor for his portrayal of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury in the biopic Bohemian Rhapsody.
After his name was announced, Malek passionately kissed with his costar and girlfriend Lucy Boynton.
“My mum is in here somewhere, I love you. I love you, lady,” Malek said while accepting the award. “My family, thank you for all of this. My dad didn’t get to see me do any of this, but I think he’s looking down on me right now. This is a monumental moment.”
He went on to thank Queen, as well as producer Graham King.
“I’m so appreciative to all of you, to everyone who has had a hand in getting me here,” Malek continued. “To the Academy, to people who took a chance on me every step of the way. Graham King, [producer] Denis O’Sullivan, everyone at Fox and New Regency, thank you guys so much. I might not have been the obvious choice but I guess it worked out. Thank you Queen. Thank you guys for allowing me to be the tiniest part of your phenomenal, extraordinary legacy. I am forever in your debt.”
Malek wrapped his speech by shouting out Boynton, 25, who plays Mercury’s former fiancée Mary Austin in the musical film.
“Lucy Boynton, you’re the heart of this film,” he concluded. “You are beyond immensely talented you have captured my heart. Thank you so much.”