BY: DM
Published 6 days ago
The Television Academy dropped this year’s Emmy nominations on July 15, and queer stars are claiming their spots. Across drama, comedy, limited series, and reality categories, LGBTQIA+ creatives and performers are making history. The annual ceremony – set for Sunday, Sept. 14 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles – will air live on CBS and stream on Paramount+. Hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze, the show promises to be a proud, rainbow-studded affair, honoring TV’s best.
This year’s Emmy nominations have queer actors in nearly every major category.
LGBTQIA+ Emmy Nominees
1. Bella Ramsey
“The Last of Us” star Bella Ramsey – who is nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns – earned a nod for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, becoming the first non-binary actor to receive multiple Emmy nominations.
2. Tramell Tillman
Tramell Tillman’s portrayal of the rigid yet subtly unhinged Seth Milchick is commanding and unforgettable. It’s his first Emmy nomination, and if he wins, he’ll become the first Black actor to take home this award.
3. Colman Domingo
Colman Domingo brings warmth and comedic timing as the soulful lead in The Four Seasons. A seasoned performer who’s openly gay, he’s already earned Emmy gold before—and this nomination makes him a touch away from a historic win as the first Black actor to win Supporting Actor – Comedy.
4. Ayo Edebiri
Ayo Edebiri proves she’s a powerhouse, earning two nominations: one for her lead role and another directing an episode of “The Bear.” This queer, Black woman is flexing her creative muscles front-and-backstage.
5. Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo won hearts as a queer musical talent on “Poker Face.” Already an Emmy favorite, this guest appearance marks her third nomination. “Poker Face” is an American crime comedy–drama series created by Rian Johnson that premiered on Peacock in January 2023. It’s packed with celebrity guest stars.
6. Robby Hoffman
Comedian Robby Hoffman scored her first Primetime Emmy nod as a guest actress on “Hacks.” This marks Hoffman’s first Emmy nomination. It also makes her the first writer-performer to receive a guest acting nod for her work on “Hacks.”
7. Cooper Koch
This openly gay actor delivers a chilling, unforgettable embodiment of Lyle Menendez. His lead nomination for the Ryan Murphy true-crime hit signals real momentum for queer actors.
8. Erin Doherty
Doherty received her first Emmy nomination for her lead performance in “Adolescence,” a limited series produced by Netflix. Previously best known for “The Crown,” this role marks her debut in Emmy contention.
9. RuPaul Charles
This is RuPaul’s 10th straight nomination for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program. The “RuPaul’s Drag Race” host has won this award six times—more than any other host in Emmy history.
10. Alan Cumming
Alan Cumming received a nod for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program for “The Traitors.” Cumming, a proudly bisexual actor/host, returns to this category after winning last year.
11. Kristen Kish
Kristen Kish turned heads in her debut season as host of “Top Chef,” earning her first-ever Emmy nomination in this competitive category.
With a packed slate of LGBTQIA+ nominees, the 2025 Emmys are set to be a celebratory night of pride. Win or lose, each nominee is already helping to break down barriers and inspire audiences worldwide.
Do you think LGBTQIA+ visibility in this year’s Emmy lineup reflects real progress in Hollywood or just the bare minimum?
