Quinta Brunson took home the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series on Sunday night for her role as Janine Teagues in ABC’s hit comedy Abbott Elementary. Brunson’s win is historic, making her the first Black woman to win the award for comedy writing and the second Black woman ever to win for comedy lead actress.
Standing Ovation for Brunson’s Groundbreaking Emmy Speech
Brunson received a standing ovation as she took the stage to accept her award, looking stunning in a copper satin Christian Dior gown. She thanked her fans and the Television Academy in an empowering speech, saying:
“To all the little Black girls watching tonight, I love you and see you and not just for me but for everyone who has gone through feeling invisible. This is for you.”
Brunson also shouted out her Abbott Elementary co-stars Sheryl Lee Ralph and Janelle James, telling them “We’re going up! We’re going up!” Brunson got emotional as she dedicated the award to her mother, saying “Mommy, I did it!”. Her heartfelt words left few dry eyes in the audience.
Social Media Ablaze with Congratulations
As soon as Brunson’s name was announced by presenter Amy Poehler, social media lit up with messages congratulating the multi-talented star. The official Television Academy Twitter account posted:
Quinta Brunson is the WINNER of the Emmy for Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for @AbbottElemABC!
🎥 Catch the full speech NOW on the #Emmys site! pic.twitter.com/iP0f5RB41p
— Television Academy (@TelevisionAcad) January 16, 2024
Pop culture Twitter account @PopCrave also tweeted out an image of Brunson tearfully accepting her award with the caption “History has been made!” along with several clapping hand emojis. Countless fans replied with congratulatory messages for the talented comedian and writer.
❤️HISTORY HAS BEEN MADE! pic.twitter.com/mvPrkcl1aR
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) January 16, 2024
Stars like Kerry Washington, Yvonne Orji and Tracee Ellis Ross all tweeted out praise for Brunson. Her Abbott Elementary castmates also shared sweet messages about her historic Emmy win.
Did Brunson’s Dress Steal the Spotlight?
While social media was abuzz about Brunson’s big moment, some attention shifted to chatter about her red carpet look. Brunson hit the step-and-repeat in a copper satin gown with an old Hollywood feel from Christian Dior’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection.
The dress garnered mixed reactions on social media, with some commenting that it looked wrinkled and ill-fitting next to her glamorous curled hairstyle and diamonds.
Brunson’s stylist, Bryon Javar, later took to Instagram to address the controversy. He shared:
“The dress was intentionally designed with stretched satin that creased on the bias. The drape and creases are intentional. It’s not wrinkled. Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.”
Javar received support from fans and fashion insiders for his explanation. While the debate continues about her daring style choice, the focus remains on Brunson’s monumental Emmy win for Abbott Elementary.
What’s Next for Quinta Brunson?
Alongside producing and starring in the hit ABC sitcom, Brunson is slated to appear opposite Oprah Winfrey and Kevin Hart in the upcoming comedy Give & Take. With an Emmy under her belt marking a huge career milestone, there is no limit to what the multi-talented performer can achieve next.
As Abbott Elementary gears up for its third season, Brunson promises there will be no shortage of laughs. When asked backstage how she will celebrate, Brunson quipped: “With some shoes without heels and a big glass of wine!”
Judging by her heartfelt speech, Brunson will continue using her platform to inspire young Black girls to dream big. This breakout star is undoubtedly just getting started when it comes to making Emmy history.
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