Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic 1979 speech featured a clever fourfold thanks to the same person

Alfred Hitchcock, the legendary "Master of Suspense," remains a timeless inspiration for filmmakers and movie lovers alike. Known for his distinctive style and captivating narratives, Hitchcock’s legacy is as influential today as ever. In 1979, just a year before his death, Hitchcock was honored with the 7th AFI Lifetime Achievement Award. True to form, his acceptance speech blended wit, charm, and gratitude.

A video posted on the official YouTube page of the American Film Institute shows director and producer George Stevens Jr. handing over the trophy to the legendary filmmaker. Adding a humorous touch, Hitchcock briefly tucked the trophy into his suit before beginning his iconic speech. He opened by acknowledging Stevens and his "co-conspirators in the bizarre trade of making films." Hitchcock then quipped, "It has been my observation that a man does not live by murder alone," drawing laughter and applause from the star-studded audience. "He needs affection, approval and encouragement—and occasionally, a hearty meal. Tonight, you have provided me with all three out of four."

Hitchcock admitted that anxiety had tempered his appetite but credited the love and support in the room for lifting his spirits. He expressed how deeply the AFI award resonated with him, describing it as significant because it came from his "fellow dealers in celluloid." Hitchcock then extended gratitude to four individuals who had given him unwavering affection, appreciation and encouragement throughout his career. "First of the four is a film editor, the second is a scriptwriter, the third is the mother of my daughter Pat and the fourth is as fine a cook as has ever performed miracles in a domestic kitchen," he said, blending sincerity with his trademark wit.

To the audience’s delight, Hitchcock revealed that all four roles were filled by one person—his wife, Alma Reville. Footage captured Reville seated beside Hitchcock, attentively listening to his speech. With heartfelt humor, he remarked, "Had this beautiful Miss Reville not accepted a lifetime contract without options as Mrs. Hitchcock some 53 years ago, Mr. Alfred Hitchcock might be in this room tonight, but not at this table—as one of the slower waiters." His heartwarming tribute to his wife drew laughter and applause from the audience. 

Hitchcock also shared a special message for the promising young recipients of the Alfred Hitchcock Fellowship. He reminisced about a childhood story and advised them to stay out of trouble and avoid jail. "Someday, one of you may be standing here with this American Film Institute award. That's what they give to good little boys," he said, ending his speech with a humorous yet poignant note. The audience, including industry giants like Henry Fonda, Ingrid Bergman, Janet Leigh and Anthony Perkins, gave him a standing ovation, marking a memorable moment of the evening.

In another video, Bergman took the stage to praise Hitchcock as an "adorable genius." Bergman, who had starred in three of his films—"Notorious," "Spellbound" and "Under Capricorn"—shared her admiration for the legendary director. French filmmaker François Truffaut spoke about his renowned book, "Hitchcock/Truffaut," calling it “a cookbook full of recipes for making films.” Stars of "Psycho," Anthony Perkins and Janet Leigh, also reflected on their experiences working with Hitchcock. Hitchcock's final film, "Family Plot," released in 1976, starred Karen Black and Bruce Dern.