John Lennon's son Sean Lennon wins Oscar and pays emotional tribute to his mother Yoko Ono

11 March 2024, 08:13

A touching moment at the 2024 Oscars saw Sean Ono Lennon pick up a prize and pay tribute to his mother Yoko.

Sean Ono Lennon, the son of music legends John Lennon and Yoko Ono, led the audience in a heartfelt Mother's Day tribute to his mother, Yoko Ono, during his acceptance speech for Best Animated Short Film.

The award was given for War Is Over! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko, a film that beautifully encapsulates an anti-war message through the lens of two World War I soldiers engaged in a game of chess via carrier pigeon, oblivious to the fact that they are on opposing sides of the conflict.

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The film, which marks the first Oscar win for filmmakers Dave Mullins and Brad Booker, draws its inspiration from the iconic anti-war Christmas song 'Happy Xmas (War Is Over)' by John Lennon and Yoko Ono.

During the acceptance speech, Mullins expressed gratitude towards Sean Ono Lennon for his incredible work as an executive producer and creative partner, highlighting the significant role the song and its message played in the creation of the film.

Sean Lennon's gesture of wishing his mother a Happy Mother's Day, which coincides with the UK celebration of the holiday, was a poignant moment that resonated with the audience, both in the Dolby Theatre and those watching around the world.

"I just want to very quickly say my mother turned 91 this February and today is Mother's Day in the UK, so could everyone say happy Mother's Day Yoko?" Sean asked.

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Yoko Ono has largely retreated from the public eye, having moved out of the iconic Dakota apartment in New York City to a farm in the Catskills.

The film's creative team also acknowledged the contributions of Thomas Newman for his score, Peter Jackson for his pivotal role in making the film happen, and the animation team at Weta FX, Lightstorm Entertainment, and Epic Games for their exceptional work.