It was a night of emotional firsts at the 2017 MTV Movie & TV Awards.
As previously documented, Emma Watson took home the trophy for Best Actor in Film and TV, overcoming a field of nominees that included both men and women.
Elsewhere, MTV honored an entire film franchise with its Generation Award for the first time, as opposed to a single individual.
In accepting the honor on behalf of his Fast & Furious co-stars, Vin Diesel took to the stage and talked emotionally about the one co-star who is no longer with us:
Paul Walker.
“In 2002, I was standing on this stage and MTV had given Paul Walker and I an award for best duo,” said Diesel. “And now, 15 years later, I’m with my whole family and you’ve given us the Generation Award.”
Diesel was joined at the event by castmates Tyrese Gibson, Michelle Rodriguez and Jordana Brewster.
He got teary-eyed as he paid thought back over the years, talking about how far the franchise has come and, of course, sharing memories of Walker, who died in a 2013 car crash.
He and Diesel were especially close.
Referring to Walker by the nickname “Pablo,” Diesel addressed his late friend directly at one point, saying simply: “We hope you’re proud.”
Diesel also made a point to thank fans for the honor, telling all those in attendance and all those watching at home:
“I gotta thank a generation that was willing to accept this multicultural franchise, where it didn’t matter what color your skin was or what country you were from…
"When you’re family, you’re family."
Preceding Diesel’s great speech, a video montage of the franchise – along with Walker’s best moments in it – played for the crowd.
Watch the video and the speech below:
