Race and Hollywood: Washington 1st Black Actress Since Tyson In 1995 To Earn Drama Lead Actress Emmy Nomination

This morning’s Emmy nominations were handed out, but few blacks working either in front of or behind the camera were recipients of the coveted nominations.  Congratulations go to Kerry Washington, whose nomination makes her the first black actress since Cicely Tyson in 1995 to earn a nomination for Lead Actress in a Primetime Drama Series.  It is important to note that a black actress has never won in this category in Emmy history.  Congratulations also go out to Don Cheadle for his Lead Actor In A Comedy Series nomination;  Alfre Woodard who received a nomination in the Best Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Movie category for her performance in Steel Magnolias;  and to Paris Barclay for his nomination in the category of Directing For A Comedy Series, for directing Diva, the thirteenth episode of Glee’s fourth season.

To read more about African Americans and the Emmy nominations, Click Here.  To read the full list of nominees, Click Here.  For background information on the Race and Hollywood Project, Click HERE.