Photo: (Getty)
It’s what you’ve been waiting for, baby — the Oscar noms are out! Jared Leto, who played an HIV-positive transgender woman in the movie “Dallas Buyers Club,” has been nominated for best supporting actor.
Jared, who’s already won a Golden Globe for the same role, Tweeted:
I am absolutely blown away by this incredible nomination. – http://t.co/CSunSabGfY
— JARED LETO (@JaredLeto) January 16, 2014
He continues on his link, “I never in my life thought I would have the opportunity to even write these words. Thank you so much to all my fellow AMPAS [ Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences] acting branch members for this honor. Today you not only honor me but also all those around the world living with AIDS and all those we have lost to this disease. Thank you for recognizing them and recognizing their struggle through DALLAS BUYERS CLUB.”
He continued, “This was a fascinating story told by a group of incredibly passionate and committed filmmakers who wanted to create something special and shine a light on a unique and important story.”
“Dallas Buyers Club” is based on a true story, and for Jared, this isn’t just any old role. Not only did he get super into it — he lost a lot of weight and tapped into painful memories of losing someone he knew to AIDS — but he’s also using this as an opportunity to speak up about important issues like HIV/AIDS and transgender rights. Movies aren’t always just about entertainment — they can also be a great way to spread awareness and open people’s eyes to new ideas.