September 20, 2021
Watch: RuPaul Makes Emmy History, Sets New Record
Kilian Melloy READ TIME: 2 MIN.
RuPaul added to his tally of Emmy wins on the Sept. 19 award show, bringing his total up to a record-breaking 11 – making him "the most-awarded person of color in the show's history," CNN reported.
"The latest award came for the 13th season of 'RuPaul's Drag Race', which picked up the honor for best reality competition program," CNN noted.
The win was the show's fourth in a row for that category.
RuPaul had a message of encouragement for LGBTQ+ youth, saying in his acceptance speech, "But really thanks to all of our lovely children on our show from around the world. 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 and, for you kids out there watching, uh, you have a tribe that is waiting for you," RuPaul added. "We are waiting for you, baby. Come on to Mama Ru!"
Variety recalled that just a week earlier, RuPaul had picked up two Emmys at the Sept. 12 Creative Arts Emmys, which is a separate ceremony from the Sept. 19 Primetime Emmys.
As EDGE reported at the time, the drag artist's Sept. 12 wins tied him with cinematographer Donald A. Morgan for "the record for the most Emmy wins by a person of color," according to Deadline.
RuPaul also snagged an Emmy at the Sept. 12 ceremonies for "Untucked", which won for Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program.
RuPaul also offered a memorable acceptance speech on Sept. 12, thanking "all the people in this business who've been kind" in a stirring acceptance speech that concluded with a punchline.
"I've got to tell you, the sweetness and the kindness is what I appreciate the most today," RuPaul said. "In fact, the sweetness and the kindness are at the top of my list of human virtues. After that would be a big fat ass."
Watch RuPaul's acceptance speech below. (Note: His speech starts at the 2:06 mark.)
Kilian Melloy serves as EDGE Media Network's Associate Arts Editor and Staff Contributor. His professional memberships include the National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association, the Boston Online Film Critics Association, The Gay and Lesbian Entertainment Critics Association, and the Boston Theater Critics Association's Elliot Norton Awards Committee.
