Political statements at award shows have been a common occurrence, especially during years with major elections. This trend was expected to continue this year with the upcoming presidential election just weeks away. However, the atmosphere was somewhat tense due to an apparent second assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump just hours before the Emmy Awards on Sunday night.
Despite the sensitive situation, some winners and presenters at the Emmy Awards managed to incorporate political messages into their speeches. Billy Crudup, who won outstanding supporting actor in a drama series for his role in “The Morning Show,” used his acceptance speech to acknowledge his wife, Naomi Watts, who he described as an immigrant with a searing performance this year.
Immigration has been a significant topic in this year's election, particularly following recent inflammatory remarks made by the GOP ticket about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. Liza Colón-Zayas, who won her first Emmy for best supporting actress in a comedy for “The Bear,” urged fellow Latinas to exercise their right to vote.
Candice Bergen, known for her role in “Murphy Brown,” injected humor into her speech by referencing a controversial comment made by Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance about “childless cat ladies.” She also reflected on a past incident where her character was criticized by Republican Dan Quayle for being a single mother, joking that times had changed.
Even Selena Gomez, while onstage with her “Only Murders in the Building” costars Steve Martin and Martin Short, alluded to the “childless cat ladies” phenomenon, adding to the political undertones of the evening.
