Ahead of the Oscars, Leslie Odom Jr. explains why “being recognized” is “tremendously meaningful”

Patti Perret/Amazon Studios

The gravity of being honored for his work as an actor and artist is not lost on Oscar nominee Leslie Odom Jr. 

The One Night in Miami star is nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Sam Cooke and Best Original Song for his moving ballad “Speak Now.” Odom Jr. tells ABC Audio that he’s owes everything he is as a creative to the arts. 

“Arts education saved my life,” he says. “And it set my feet on a path.”

“All I ever really wanted to do, all I continue to want to do, my desire, my intention, is