The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences rewarded child actors with a special Oscar from 1935 to 1961. The following article will introduce those who received it.
The History of the Academy Juvenile Award
The Academy Juvenile Award (also known as Juvenile Oscar) was a special honor that was irregularly given to actors under the age of 18. The award was first received by the 6-year-old Shirley Temple in 1935. Subsequently, it was awarded to another 11 actors, with the last recipient being the 14-year-old Hayley Mills in 1961.
Other Child Actors who Received a Special Award
Other awarded child actors included Deanna Durbin (17 years old in 1939), Mickey Rooney (18 years old in 1939), Judy Garland (17 years old in 1940), Margaret O’Brien (8 years old in 1944), Peggy Ann Garner (14 years old in 1946), Claude Jarman, Jr. (12 years old in 1947), Ivan Jandl (12 years old in 1949), Bobby Driscoll (13 years old in 1950), Jon Whiteley (10 years old in 1955), and Vincent Winter (14 years old in 1955).
Recognized Children After the Discontinuation of the Special Category
Tatum O’Neal, Anna Paquin, and Patty Duke are the youngest recipients of classic Oscars. All three girls earned them in the category of Best Actress in a Supporting Role. Tatum O’Neal was 10 years old, Anna Paquin was 11, and Patty Duke was 16.
The Oscar is the most prestigious film award that every actor aspires to. Winning it at a young age is truly admirable.