Photos by Rachel Luna/FilmMagic and Presley Ann/WireImage
History was made during last night’s Emmy Awards. The change agents? Black men. Big wins by Billy Porter and Jharrel Jerome truly made the night shine with black excellence.
“Once again, we watch history unfold,” were the words of Kerry Washington as she presented Porter with the award for lead actor in a drama series for his role as Pray Tell in the hit show “Pose.” Becoming the first, openly, gay black man to take home the award, the 50-year-old accepted his trophy with a smile almost as big as the glamorous hat he wore.
Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage
In another highly anticipated category, Jerome was presented the prestigious trophy for best lead actor in a limited series. At 21 years old, this makes him the youngest actor to ever win in this category. Winning for his outstanding portrayal as Korey Wise, in “When They See Us,” the young actor fought back tears as he made a very touching speech. Ultimately dedicating the award to the men of the Exonerated 5 his words moved the entire Los Angeles audience to their feet.
We’re excited to not only see diversity among the list of nominees but to witness the upward strides being made by the black and LGBTQ communities within television and entertainment as a whole.
JOIN US in congratulating Billy Porter and Jharrel Jerome!
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