So Why IS It Called an “Oscar?”

Unless you live in a cave, or under a rock (or just don't watch tv) you probably know the Academy Awards are this weekend. But why is the coveted little statue called the "Oscar?"

The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) began awarding achievement awards annually in the mid to late 1930's.  At first a small and private affair, it quickly became publicized by the media, and grew into the greatest honor an actor can achieve.  But the little statue?  He is officially known as the Academy Award.  Where did Oscar come from?  Several legends abound.  Shortly after he was created, Magaret Herrick, who would become the AMPAS Executive Director, quipped in "it looks like my uncle oscar."  The most popular story is Bette Davis, who named it after her ex-husband, Harmon Oscar Nelson Jr.  By 1939, the name had stuck, and Sunday, many actors dreams of winning the little guy will be realized.