Jared Leto refuses to rush in accepting prize at Hollywood Film Awards

Jared Leto refused to be rushed offstage at the Hollywood Film Awards on Monday (21Oct13) as he accepted his first big prize for his performance in moving new drama Dallas Buyers Club.

The star was selected to receive the Hollywood Breakthrough Award at the Los Angeles ceremony in recognition of his role as a HIV-positive cross-dresser in the film, and as he stepped up to the podium, he confessed he was in awe of the honor.

He joked, "It's crazy what happens when people find out you look great in a skirt. You get invited to all the cool parties", before getting serious and adding, "To get an award like this is absolutely incredible... I've actually never received an award for anything. It's not a joke... So to get the breakthrough or breakout award at my ripe young age of 41 is pretty incredible. I couldn't be more humbled and appreciative."

The musical cue prompting Leto to wrap up his acceptance speech soon began to play, but he ignored the prompt and declared he was not going to cut short his big moment as he went on to thank his co-star, Matthew McConaughey.

As the audience laughed, the defiant actor said, "Forty-one years, buddy. Forty-one years... Just a couple more things. Matthew McConaughey, you gave me the opportunity of a lifetime..."

McConaughey also got his time to shine as he picked up the Hollywood Actor title, while Sandra Bullock received the female equivalent and Jake Gyllenhaal and Julia Roberts were presented with supporting actor accolades.

The all-star cast of Roberts' new movie August: Osage County was also honored with the Hollywood Ensemble Acting Award, while Harrison Ford was feted for his career achievements.

There was also an appearance by rapper Kanye West, who turned up at The Beverly Hilton to present the first prize, Hollywood Breakout Director Award, to Steve McQueen, shortly before making his way to baseball stadium AT&T Park in San Francisco, California, where he later proposed to his girlfriend Kim Kardashian.