Viola Davis Reveals the Funny Secret Behind Her Iconic 2017 Oscars Look
Award-winning actress Viola Davis recently shared a surprising and funny detail from one of the biggest nights of her career. During an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Davis revealed what she was really wearing under her famous red Oscars gown.
Fans remember the powerful moment when Davis won Best Supporting Actress at the 89th Academy Awards for her role in Fences. She walked on stage in a stunning scarlet gown that quickly became one of the most memorable red-carpet looks of the night.
However, the glamorous outfit hid a secret. Instead of traditional heels, Davis was actually wearing custom platform sneakers under the elegant dress.
Platform Sneakers Stole the Show Beneath the Glamorous Gown
During the interview, Davis explained that comfort played a big role in her wardrobe choice that night. While the world saw a polished Hollywood moment, she had something unexpected under the dress.
“Underneath that dress, I had on platform sneakers that were specially made for me,” Davis said while laughing. “They were probably seven inches high.”
The actress said she remembers those shoes every time she sees photos from the awards ceremony. According to Davis, the sneakers helped her feel comfortable and confident as she walked on stage to accept the Oscar.
Host Jimmy Fallon was clearly surprised by the revelation. When he asked if she was serious, Davis laughed and confirmed it, pointing to the photo from the moment she accepted her award.
A Wax Figure Brings the Memory Back to Life
That unforgettable Oscars look has since taken on a life of its own. In 2025, Madame Tussauds Hollywood unveiled a wax figure of Davis wearing the same red gown.
Seeing the statue for the first time was a strange experience for the actress. Davis joked that the realistic details of the figure were almost too accurate.
“It freaked me right the hell out,” she admitted, laughing about the encounter.
Still, Davis said the museum captured every detail perfectly. She even joked that her wax figure might be the best one in the building, though she admitted Jeff Goldblum could be a close second.
Even Hollywood Icons Have Wardrobe Mishaps
The Oscar story was not the only fashion moment Davis shared during the interview. She also revealed a recent wardrobe mishap at the 2026 Actors Awards.
While presenting actor Michael B. Jordan with an award for his role in Sinners, Davis experienced a small accident with her outfit.
“I did rip my dress open, I did,” she told Fallon. “But it’s all good!”
The actress was wearing a custom emerald green gown designed by Gucci at the time. Despite the mishap, Davis handled the moment with humor and grace.
Her stories remind fans that even the most glamorous Hollywood moments come with a few unexpected surprises.
