George C. Scott became the second person to refuse his award ( Best Actor in 1970 for '' Patton '' ) at the 43rd Academy Awards ceremony . Scott described it as a " meat parade " , saying , " I do n't want any part of it . " The third person to refuse the award was Marlon Brando , who refused his award ( Best Actor for 1972 's '' The Godfather '' ) , citing the film industry 's discrimination and mistreatment of Native Americans . At the 45th Academy Awards ceremony , Brando sent actress and civil rights activist Sacheen Littlefeather to read a 15-page speech , detailing his criticisms , which was booed by the audience
45th Academy Awards
45th Academy Awards
Academy Awards