The 2015 Emmy Awards were groundbreaking by making Viola Davis the first African-American woman to win the award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series. The award show had many highlights, but Davis’ win and subsequent acceptance speech had social media buzzing with praise and gratitude for the actress’ contribution.
Davis’ role in ABC’s “How to Get Away with Murder” outshined all other accomplishments of the night. When she went to receive her award, Davis brought many audience members to their feet. What she said next did not disappoint.
“And let me tell you something,” Davis said, “the only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity. You cannot win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there.”
Davis’ words come at a time when both gender and racial inequality continue to be prevalent in the film industry. Davis’ noteworthy talent enables her to be in a position where she can publicly address these inherent struggles.
Alongside Davis, Uzo Aduba gave the other emotional speech of the night. Aduba won Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Netflix’s, “Orange is the New Black.” Aduba, who was in tears, expressed her gratitude for all those who helped her reach that stage.
Other shows that made their impact that night included HBO shows, “Game of Thrones” and “Olive Kitteridge.” Both shows received multiple awards, the former going home with the most number of wins – 12 – for a series in a single year.
However, the shock of the night came when “Modern Family” lost to “Veep,” ending the former’s five-year winning streak for the category of Outstanding Comedy Series. There was a collective moment of surprise, promptly followed by hysteria from the unsuspecting cast.
There were many deserving nominees in the audience for the 2015 Emmys. While all of the actors and actresses proved that hard work pays off, they also show that great progress can be made when opportunity is presented to all people. Most of all, those outstanding actors and actresses who went home with a symbol of their hard work and perseverance exemplify the talent and the changes that are developing each passing year.