Liza Colón-Zayas Makes History With ‘The Bear’ Emmy Win

Liza Colón-Zayas reached a major career milestone at the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday (Sept. 15). The actress took home the trophy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her work in The Bear. Her win marks the first time a Latina actress has taken the category. This was also Colón-Zayas’ first time as an Emmy nominee.

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“Thank you to my husband, David Zayas. He told me to write a speech, and I didn’t, because I didn’t think it would be possible,” explained the 52-year-old while accepting the award. During the annual event, she wore a sequined green off-the-shoulder gown by Christian Siriano, per WWD.

“How, how could I have thought it would be possible to be in the presence of Meryl Streep and Carol Burnett and Janelle [James] and Sheryl Lee Ralph and Hannah [Einbinder],” she continued, naming the actress’ also nominated for the award. “I love you all, I revere you [from] the bottom of my heart.”

She continued, “Thank you to my beautiful cast … Thank you for giving me a new life with this show. And, to all the Latinas who are looking at me — keep believing and vote. Vote for your rights. Thank you.”

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In The Bear, Colón-Zayas portrays Tina who is described as ” fiercely independent and refuses help even when needed, because she wants to believe she can do everything herself,” on a fandom website dedicated to the series.

Currently in its third season, the series scored big at the 76th Primetime Emmys. According to The Hollywood Reporter, The Bear set a new record for most wins in a single season for a comedy with 11, besting its own record set at the last award show with 10 trophies.

Take a look at Liza Colón-Zayas’ acceptance speech below.

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