Regina King took home the Oscar for Actress In A Supporting Role at the 91st Academy Awards on Sunday for her performance in If Beale Street Could Talk.

To be standing here representing one of the greatest artists of all time James Baldwin is a little surreal, she said in her acceptance speech. Thanking Baldwin and director Barry Jenkins, she added, Its appropriate for me to be standing here because Im an example of when support and love is poured into someone.

She teared up as she addressed her mother, Gloria King, who was also her date for the evening.

Thank you for teaching me that God is always leaning, always has been leaning in my direction, she said.

Based on the 1974 novel by Baldwin, If Beale Street Could Talk was a critical hit upon its release in December but was largely overlooked during awards season.