The name “Oscar” has an interesting origin. While the official trophy is called the Academy Award of Merit, the nickname “Oscar” reportedly came from a librarian at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, who said the statuette reminded her of her Uncle Oscar.

Oscar is considered the most prestigious trophy. The 13.5-inch, 8.5-pound bronze statuette is the most valuable asset in the entertainment industry. This year, the 98th Academy Awards will take place in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 15, 2026, where many talented and veteran actors from Hollywood and Bollywood will walk the red carpet before settling in for a night of triumphs. The Academy Awards are popularly known as the Oscars. It is the most prestigious accolade in the global film industry. But, do you know how Oscar got its name? Keep on reading to know.

About Oscars

The name “Oscar” has an interesting origin. While the official trophy is called the Academy Award of Merit, the nickname “Oscar” reportedly came from a librarian at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, who said the statuette reminded her of her Uncle Oscar. The name gradually became so popular that the Academy officially adopted it in 1939.

When was the first Oscar held?