And history has been made! While Mahershala Ali and Denzel Washington are currently tied as the black artists with most Oscar wins with two trophies each, one black artist reigns the Emmy stage. Yes, you read that right. With his recent Emmy win, RuPaul Charles has cemented his position as the most-awarded Black artist in the award show’s history.
The 60-year old American drag queen and actor has an unprecedented 11 Emmy awards to his name. For the fourth consecutive year, his show RuPaul won the Outstanding Competition award, besting other popular shows such as Nailed It, The Amazing Race, The Voice, and Top Chef. RuPaul is the host and executive producer of the hit show.
On top of this accolade, he also bagged his sixth straight Emmy Award for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program. He’s such a formidable force to be reckoned with!
In his acceptance speech, he put the spotlight on the contestants of the show. Some of which have carved very successful paths after their stint.
“Thanks to all of our lovely children on our show from around the world. You know, they are so gracious to tell their stories of courage and how to navigate this difficult life, even more difficult today. This is for you,” he said.
RuPaul ended his speech with a heartfelt message to gender non-conforming viewers. “And for the kids out there watching, you have a tribe that is waiting for you–we are waiting for you, baby! Come on to Mama Ru! Thank you so much.”
RuPaul’s Drag Race first hit the small screen in 2009 and has seen 13 seasons with 166 drag queens competing. The show has been renewed for a 14th season on VH1 where a new batch of queens will compete for the title of America’s next drag superstar.
