The Emmys are memorable for their speeches, wins, and surprises – tonight was no different. The stage served as a platform for TV’s biggest names to speak on important issues and warrant for actions. Stories were told, tears were shed, and actors showed some vulnerability to the world.
Patricia Arquette has established herself as one of the greatest actresses in TV and film. This was soon proven to be true once again when she won the Emmy award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie category for her role as Dee Dee Blanchard in Hulu’s The Act.
When Arquette took the stage to accept her award, she made an open plea to the world to hire more transgender people for jobs. The actress lost her trans sister, Alexis, three years ago to cardiac arrest due to HIV complications at the age of 47. “In my heart, I’m so sad I lost my sister Alexis, and that trans people are still being persecuted,” Arquette said.
“I’m in mourning every day of my life, Alexis, I will be the rest of my life for you until we change the world so that trans people are not persecuted, and give them jobs,” Arquette said. “They’re human beings let’s give them jobs. Let’s get rid of this bias we have everywhere.”
Laverne Cox was seen giving a standing ovation to Arquette’s call on transgender rights.
Arquette also took the opportunity to show her gratitude for the roles she continues to receive in Hollywood. “I’m grateful to be working,” said Arquette. “I’m grateful at 50 to be getting the best parts of my life.”
You can watch Arquette’s speech below.
The Act is a limited series that starred Arquette and Joey King as a mother-daughter duo. King had received her first Emmy nomination in the Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie category.