Happy March 16!

One guy who didn’t have one was legendary director Frank Capra, the man behind such great films as Mr. Smith Goes to Washington and It’s a Wonderful Life (JOEY).

On this day in 1934, poor Frank suffered a devastatingly embarrassing moment at the 6th Academy Awards.

Frank was nominated for Best Director for Lady for a Day.

Jerkass presenter Will Rogers awarded the statue by saying “I’ve watched this young man for a long time. Saw him come up from the bottom. It couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy. Come up and get it, Frank!”

Capra was on his way to the stage when he noticed the spotlight was on the actual winner: Frank Lloyd, director of Cavalcade.

He hopefully got over it when he won Best Director the next year. Then again in 1937. Then again in 1939. He’s tied for second-most Best Director Oscars (after John Ford, who had four).

Moral: Capra was an awesome director (Joey) and Will Rogers was dumb dick.

Also, if you’re ever presenting an award, use the winner’s full name!