When she took home a “best actress in a musical or comedy TV series for her role in “black-ish,” Tracee Ellis Ross became the first African American woman in nearly 35 years to win the award.
Her win set the tone for what would be a diverse experience at the 74th Annual Golden Globes last night.
“This is for all of the women of color and colorful people, whose stories, ideas and thoughts are not always considered worthy and valid and important,” Ross said as she accepted the award. “I want you to know that I see you, we see you. It is an honor to be on this show ‘black-ish’ to continue expanding the way we are seen and known – and to show the magic, the beauty and the sameness of the stories that are outside where the industry usually looks.”
Ross’ Award was immediately followed by FX’s “Atlanta” taking best musical or comedy TV series.
Show creator, director, producer and star Donald Glover thanked the black people in Atlanta for the win
“For real, just for being alive…and being amazing people doing amazing things,” Glover said. “I couldn’t be here without Atlanta.”
He also thanked rap group The Migos for their song “Bad and Boujee” for “just being a great song.”
Glover also won best actor in a musical or comedy TV series for “Atlanta” and Viola Davis took home best supporting actress in a motion picture honors for her role in “Fences.”
But the 74th Golden Globes will also be remembered for the celebration of diversity behind the scenes as well as on screen.
Motion picture musicl “La La Land” made Golden Globe history with a record seven wins. Singer John Legend, who appeared on screen in the film, was also one of the producers.
And when Casey Affleck was named best actor in a motion picture for his performance in “Manchester By The Sea,” the first person he reached out to embrace was St. Louis’ own Kimberly Steward – who served as producer/financier for the riveting drama.
“I have to thank some people who without them the film wouldn’t have been made,” Affleck said in his remarks. “I want to thank Kimberly Steward, Loren and everyone at K Period Media.”
The night capped with Barry Jenkins’ urban drama “Moonlight” beating out “La La Land” for best picture drama honors – the evenings most coveted award.
