LOS ANGELES: Veteran Hollywood actor Jeff Bridges won his first Academy Award for his portrayal of alcoholic country singer Bad Blake in 'The Crazy Heart'.

The actor, who has been nominated four times before, was the favourite to win the coveted trophy, having dominated the category this award season with wins at the Golden Globe and SAG awards among others.

An emotional Bridges said thanked his "mom and dad" who introduced him to the world of showbiz.

"A time to remember. I would like to thank my mom and dad for this. I remember my mom taking me to the showbiz parties and dad giving me acting lessons. I am an extension of them and this award is an honour to them," said Bridges, who went on to thank his director, cast and the crew as well as his wife of 33-years.

The 60-year old beat off competition from Hollywood heartthrob George Clooney (Up In The Air), Morgan Freeman (Invictus), Jeremy Renner 'The Hurt Locker' and Colin Firth (A Single Man'. Last year's Best Actress winner Kate Winslet presented the Oscar trophy to Bridges.

The actor, best known for his roles in 'The Mirror Has Two Faces', 'The Big Lebowski' and the 'Iron Man', has been spurned previously by Academy despite critically acclaimed performances.