While accepting the award for outstanding lead actor in a comedy series at the 2016 Emmys [1], Jeffrey Tambor used his speech as a powerful call to action. The Transparent actor plays Maura Pfefferman, a transgender woman who comes out at age 75, in the acclaimed series. He used his moment in the spotlight Sunday night to urge network owners, producers, and other execs to give transgender actors more opportunities.
In his speech, Jeffrey said, "Please give transgender talent a chance. Give them auditions. Give them their story. Do that." His comment was met with resounding applause and a cheer from Laverne Cox [2]. When Laverne presented a later award, she reiterated Jeffrey's comments and said, "I would not be here tonight had someone not given me a chance." Watch the powerful speech below.
Jeffrey Tambor calls on Hollywood to embrace transgender talent: "Please give transgender talent a chance." #EMMYs [3] https://t.co/q0XjCpPrp0 [4]
— ABC News (@ABC) September 19, 2016 [5]
Image Source: Getty / Kevin Winter [7]