Gabourey Sidibe was an unknown name to most just 12 months ago, but now she’s almost a household name.

Born May 6, 1983 in Brooklyn, New York, Gabourey, also know as Gabby, had no interest in acting. She had witnessed her mother’s financial struggles as a street singer and wanted the security that an education and a desk job would give her. After attending local colleges, Gabby pursued a degree in psychology at Mercy College. She was in the middle of preparing for an exam when a friend phoned her about an audition for the newest effort from Lee Daniels, Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire. Little did she know that that audition would bring her the stardom most people would say was impossible.

Gabby was one of eight black women to be nominated for Best Actress at the Academy Awards. Others include, Dorothy Dandridge, Diana Ross, Cicely Tyson, Diahann Carroll, Whoopi Goldberg, Angela Bassett and Halle Berry.

Gabby was crying when Oprah presented her to the audience. Awwee. Even though she didn’t win Best Actress she won really big this year overall!!!