The 2025 Emmy Awards proved to be a spectacular night for the LGBTQ+ community. The buzz began with a familiar triumph for Alan Cumming, who for the second consecutive year took home the award for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program for his work on the hit show, The Traitors. On stage, he reflected on the difficult times we live in and the importance of joy, while wearing a pin featuring the trans flag colours, symbolising support for Not A Phase, a UK-based trans-led organisation focused on improving the lives of trans+ adults. Speaking to Variety, Cumming emphasised his sense of duty to advocate for marginalised communities, especially as trans people face escalating persecution in some regions.
Meanwhile, Hannah Einbinder won Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Ava Daniels in the final season of Hacks. This marked the 30-year-old’s first Emmy win, a remarkable achievement for an actress on her debut acting role. Her portrayal of the chaotic, bisexual writer has resonated with audiences and critics alike. Einbinder’s red carpet appearance was politically charged, featuring a red Artists4Ceasefire pin, and in her acceptance speech she made a bold statement advocating for Palestine and denouncing ICE. She later expanded on her speech, sharing with the press the personal connection she feels to the conflict through her friends working on the front lines in Gaza. As a Jewish person, she stressed the importance of distinguishing her cultural and religious identity from the actions of the Israeli state, highlighting the complexity of the issue and her commitment to justice and humanitarianism. Supporting this message, Hacks co-star Megan Stalter carried a black handbag emblazoned with the word CEASEFIRE! at the ceremony, demonstrating solidarity with peace activism.
The night also saw historic milestones in representation. Tramell Tillman, who stars in Severance, became the first Black man to win Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. Tillman, who is openly gay, had already made history as the first openly gay Black man nominated in this category, symbolising progress in the recognition of intersectional identities in mainstream media. Emotions ran high as he expressed gratitude to the Academy, dedicating his success to his family and community.
Erin Doherty, celebrated for her work in Adolescence, captured the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie, sealing her first Emmy win. The moment was made even sweeter by a public display of affection, as she kissed her girlfriend Sinéad Donnelly before ascending the stage, later thanking her partner in her acceptance speech.
Adding to the warmth of the evening was Jeff Hiller’s win for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his role as Joel, a gay choir director in HBO’s Somebody Somewhere. Hiller’s heartfelt acceptance speech highlighted his long journey in the industry, marked by perseverance and hope. He thanked HBO for championing stories about the realities of middle-aged people, showing the network’s commitment to diverse narratives beyond youth-centric dramas.
[Picture Euan Cherry/Peacock]
Source: Noah Wire Services
TOP EVENTS
TOP EVENTS
