At the Emmy Awards, Quinta Brunson, a star of “Abbott Elementary,” couldn’t contain her emotions as she received the prestigious accolade. On Monday, she clinched the Emmy for the best lead actress in a comedy series for her role in the ABC show. The award was presented to her by the iconic television figure, Carol Burnett. As she took the stage to express her gratitude, Brunson’s voice quivered, reflecting the overwhelming joy she felt in the moment.
“Wow,” exclaimed Brunson, visibly moved by the recognition. “Thank you so much. I don’t even know why I’m so emotional. I think, like, the Carol Burnett of it all.” Wiping away tears, Brunson professed her deep love for “Abbott Elementary” and conveyed her happiness at living her dream of acting in comedy. “I say that every time, but I just love comedy so much that I am so happy to be able to get this,” she added.
Admitting she hadn’t prepared any remarks, Brunson took a deep breath to compose herself for the remainder of the speech. She concluded by expressing gratitude to her parents, sisters, brothers, husband, and the entire cast of “Abbott Elementary.” “I love ‘Abbott Elementary,'” she affirmed, “Thank you so much.”
Brunson’s win marked a historic moment as she became the first Black woman to receive the lead comedy actress Emmy award since Isabel Sanford in 1981 for “The Jeffersons.” This victory was particularly significant for Brunson, who had been previously nominated for lead actress in a comedy for the first season of “Abbott Elementary” but had lost to Jean Smart from “Hacks.”
While this was her first win in the lead actress Emmy category, Brunson had previously received an Emmy for her work in writing the pilot episode of “Abbott Elementary.” The show revolves around a group of teachers in an elementary school.
During Brunson’s acceptance speech, Carol Burnett watched with a smile from the corner of the stage, adding a nostalgic touch to the event. Burnett, known for “The Carol Burnett Show,” contributed to the Emmys’ theme of celebrating 75 years of television history. The 90-year-old comedienne humorously reflected on the progress in comedy over the years, expressing joy at the success of men in the field.
Later in the broadcast, Brunson returned to the stage, this time to present an Emmy alongside another television legend, Marla Gibbs from “The Jeffersons.” Clearly honored to share the stage with Gibbs, Brunson’s presence continued to be a highlight of the evening.
Quinta Brunson’s emotional Emmy win not only recognized her outstanding talent but also underscored the importance of diversity and representation in the entertainment industry. As she made history, Brunson’s tears of joy symbolized a significant moment in the ongoing evolution of the Emmy Awards and the broader landscape of television.