Steven Spielberg Once Bought Oscars of Hollywood Legends for Over $1 Million

Steven Spielberg once again showed his devotion to Hollywood history by purchasing the Oscars of two legendary actors to ensure their preservation.

According to ABC, the acclaimed director acquired awards that had once belonged to Bette Davis and Clark Gable, paying more than $1 million in total.

Davis’ Oscar went up for auction and sold for $578,000. The winning bidder was later revealed to be Spielberg, who immediately donated the award back to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to safeguard its legacy.

Clark Gable’s Oscar followed a similar path. Spielberg placed an anonymous bid and paid $607,500 for the statuette, also returning it to the Academy for permanent preservation.

Speaking to Variety, Spielberg explained his motivation, saying, “If not with the Clark Gable estate, I could think of no better sanctuary for Gabe’s only Oscar than the Motion Picture Academy. The Oscar statuette is the most personal recognition of good work our industry can ever bestow, and it strikes me as a sad sign of our times that this icon could be confused with a commercial treasure.”

Unlike some collectors who view Oscars as financial investments, Spielberg has made it clear that his goal is to protect the history of cinema.

The Oscars he purchased not only honor the careers of Davis and Gable but also serve as a reminder of Hollywood’s golden era. Both Davis and Gable were trailblazers in their time, with Davis known for her powerful performances in classics like All About Eve and Gable immortalized in films such as Gone With the Wind. Preserving their Oscars ensures that future generations can celebrate their achievements.

Spielberg himself is no stranger to Academy recognition. He has won three Oscars in his career, including Best Director for Schindler’s List and Saving Private Ryan. However, his efforts to save the awards of other icons show a deep respect for film history and the people who shaped it.

By purchasing and returning these Oscars, Spielberg has created a legacy beyond his own work, protecting symbols of achievement for two of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.

What do you think of Spielberg’s gesture? Should more collectors follow his example to preserve Hollywood history? Share your thoughts in the comments.