James Martin was one of the lead characters in An Irish Goodbye!
The 31-year-old Irish barista is the first person with Down Syndrome to win an academy award for his live-action short film.
James also celebrated his 31st onstage on Sunday, March 13, during the 95th Academy Awards after his short drama film won the prestigious accolade.
However, despite his win, Martin said he would return to his Starbucks job after finishing the film.
An Irish Goodbye was a 2021 film – directed by Tom Berkley and Ross White, and its story revolved around two brothers (who were reunited after their mother’s passing.
While on stage, the short’s co-director, Tom Berkley, announced to the audience that it was James’s birthday, and everybody started singing “Happy Birthday, James.”
“This award is actually the second most important thing about today because it’s James’ birthday,” said Berkley.
“He’s out here in Hollywood wearing a leopard-print suit jacket. We would love to use the rest of our time up here to sing to James.”
Receiving so much love and appreciation from his team and people in the audience, Martin was so moved with joy; he gave a thumbs-up to the crowd.
Last month James told Daily Mail that he would return to his job as a Starbucks barista despite his short film being nominated for the Oscars.
“I help out with all the customers. I’ve been doing that a long time. It’s nice,” he said.
According to Daily Mail, “The actor keeps himself busy, also working in local restaurant Scalini’s as a chef.”
Following his win, many people took to Twitter and applauded James Martin for winning an Oscar.
“the guys who made An Irish Goodbye used their Oscar acceptance speech to have every A-lister in Hollywood sing Happy Birthday to their star, James Martin. iconic!” one wrote.
“Look at this!!!!!!!!! Hollywood loves a story with a happy ending!!!!! Last night we got it!!!! That’s the icing on the birthday cake of Oscar winner JAMES MARTIN who’s 31….” another said.
“Absolutely over the moon for James Martin & everyone involved in An Irish Goodbye for their Oscar win! An incredible achievement that will inspire a generation of actors & film makers I hope you all enjoy the celebrations in LA, a very exciting future ahead for Irish film,” a third wrote.
“the whole room singing happy birthday to james martin was definitely one for my favorite moments of the oscars,” someone wrote.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Source: Daily Mail
