Awards season is dazzling in full force, and it’s the perfect moment to spotlight the fabulous LGBTQ+ highlights from the 75th Emmy Awards.
Elton John is an EGOT winner
Starting off, we have to talk about Sir Elton John’s incredible achievement: becoming the 19th person to achieve EGOT status. In other words, they have received an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award throughout their career.
The legendary singer-songwriter won the Outstanding Variety Special (Live) award for his work on his live concert special, Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium.
Though John could not attend the ceremony due to knee surgery, the special’s producer, Ben Winston, and John’s husband, David Furnish, accepted it on his behalf. Nevertheless, the icon crafted a unique statement to articulate his emotions about this particular moment.
“I am incredibly humbled to be joining the unbelievably talented group of EGOT winners tonight,” he said. “The journey to this moment has been filled with passion, dedication, and the unwavering support of my fans all around the world. Tonight is a testament to the power of the arts and the joy that it brings to all our lives. Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my career, I am incredibly grateful.”
Pedro Pascal brought his trans sister Lux as his date
Pedro Pascal’s incredibly styled sling was not the only thing on his arm on Monday night. The actor also brought his beautiful sister, 31-year-old trans actress and model Lux Pascal, as his date for the evening.
Pascal has always been vocal about his love and respect for his sister, and we cannot handle the cuteness.
“Pedro has been an important part of this,” Lux said in a previous interview with Ya. “He’s also an artist and has served as a guide for me. He was one of the first people to gift me the tools that started shaping my identity.”
Last year, Pedro told Esquire that Lux “is and has always been one of the most powerful people and personalities I’ve ever known. My protective side is lethal, but I need her more than she needs me.”
Jennifer Coolidge’s message to the “evil gays”
Jennifer Coolidge, the queen of comedy, triumphed in the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series category. She clinched the trophy for her hilariously quirky portrayal of the late Tanya McQoid in The White Lotus.
Known for her unforgettable speeches, Coolidge had her fans on the edge of their seats in anticipation of her next TV gem. True to form, she delivered with her trademark blend of humor and heart. “Mike White, thanks for this role of a lifetime… He’s convinced I’m definitely dead, so I guess I am!” she quipped.
Coolidge then playfully thanked “all the evil gays,” nodding to a famous line from the show, adding, “These gays… they’re trying to murder me!” Wrapping up her speech, she shared a slice of inspiration, “I had this little dream in my little town. Everyone said it was a no-go, but look at me now! So hey, don’t ever give up on your dreams.”
Niecy Nash-Betts wins first Pimetime Emmy
In a moment that blended heart and humor, Niecy Nash-Betts lit up the Emmy stage, scooping up the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series. Her unforgettable role as Glenda Cleveland in the buzzworthy “Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” series earned her this well-deserved accolade.
With her signature sparkle, the 53-year-old actress expressed her gratitude to Ryan Murphy and co-star Evan Peters. She also gave a shoutout to her wife, queer singer Jessica Betts, crediting her for being the rock that helped her through the emotional toll of the role.
But the highlight? Nash-Betts’ hilarious yet heartfelt pat on the back to herself: “Go on, girl, with your bad self. You did that!
“Finally, I accept this award on behalf of every Black and brown woman who has fallen unheard, yet overpoliced,” she said. “Like Glenda Clevelend, like Sandra Bland, like Breonna Taylor. As an artist, my job is to speak truth to power, and baby I’m gonna do it till the day I die. Momma, I won!”
Big Wins for The Bear
Queer actress Ayo Edebiri, also known for her iconic role in the lesbian comedy Bottoms, took home the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy for The Bear. In the show, Edebiri shines as Sydney, a young, ambitious chef navigating the high-pressure world of a gourmet kitchen. Her portrayal embodies resilience and determination, making Sydney a relatable and inspiring character amidst the show’s intense culinary backdrop.
“This is a show about family and found family and real family, and my parents are here tonight and I’m making them sit far away from me because I’m a bad kid but thank you,” Edebiri said during her speech.
“Thank you so much for loving me and letting me feel beautiful and Black and proud of all of that. I love you so much. Probably not a dream to immigrate to this country and have your daughter go ‘I wanna do improv,’ but you are real ones.”
Speaking of The Bear, another memorable moment from Monday night occurred during the show’s win for Outstanding Comedy Series. Watch the intense kiss between Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Matty Matheson (Neil and Richie in the series) below.
Honorable Mentions:
- RuPaul’s Drag Race– The reality series is on a roll, clinching its fifth Emmy Award for Outstanding Reality Show Competition. This victory marks a historic milestone, solidifying its status as the second most-awarded competition show in history, right behind The Amazing Race.
- Matthew Macfadyen calling Nicholas Braun his ‘on-screen’ wife in his acceptance speech for Succession.
- ALL THE RED CARPET LEWKS
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