John Cena is making the rounds today for streaking at the Oscars. But did you know that this was in reference to the David Niven Oscar streaker that happened in 1974? Here's who the original Oscar streaker was.
Who Was the David Niven Oscar Streaker in 1974?
Back in 1974, a photographer and LGBTQ activist made history by running across the stage in his birthday suit and flashing a "peace" sign.
He made his momentous scene as host David Niven was introducing Elizabeth Taylor, who was set to present the Best Picture award.
Despite this ungodly surprise, Niven maintained his composure and said:
"Well, ladies and gentlemen, that was almost bound to happen... But isn't it fascinating to think that probably the only laugh that man will ever get in his life is by stripping off and showing his shortcomings?"
The event then continued as if nothing had transpired.
So who was the man who would become the David Niven Oscar streaker in 1974? This recognition belongs to Robert Opel, who had already made a name for himself for streaking at Los Angeles council meetings.
After streaking at the Oscars, however, Opel made a name for himself. He even announced that he was running for the US President position in 1976 and referenced his infamous streaking incident at the Oscars.
He used the slogans "Nothing to Hide" and "Not Just Another Crooked Dick."
While there have been reports suggesting that Opel's stunt had been planned, it wasn't actually proven. But Opel also kept a quiet life after the fame.
Unfortunately, he was killed in a confrontation with burglars who had broken into his art studio in 1979.
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John Cena Streaker Scene from the Oscars
At the 2024 Oscars, former WWE star John Cena decided to recreate the infamous Oscar streaker incident.
As host Jimmy Kimmel asked Cena to present the Academy Award for Best Costume Design, the actor awkwardly walked across the stage with nothing but an envelope covering his private parts.
Before Cena popped to the stage, Kimmel asked "Can you imagine if a nude man ran across the stage today? Wouldn't that be crazy?"
The two then had a slight back-and-forth with Cena regretting his decision to go out in the nude.
Since he couldn't open the envelope, Cena asked Kimmel for assistance by dressing him up in a makeshift toga.
This was homage to the 1974 incident, which Cena used to highlight the importance of costume design. The winner of the award was Holly Waddington of Poor Things.
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Was John Cena Really Nude at the Oscars?
Despite appearing nude, Cena wasn't completely nude. In fact, he donned a flesh-colored sling that covered his front and back private areas.
Unfortunately, the audience reception to Cena's semi-nude presence was divided. Here are some of what people said about the incident online:
It's important to note that this was Cena's homage to the 1974 Oscar streaker.
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