Publication date May 3, 2023
Shocking! Liv Hewson, discloses they are unable to appeal for Emmy consideration
Representation, diversity, and inclusiveness are long-standing problems in the entertainment business. The recent declaration made by nonbinary actor Liv Hewson brings attention to another topic of contention: the acceptance of nonbinary and gender nonconforming performers in award ceremonies. Discussions on the need for change in the way the industry views and appreciates performers of all gender identities have been prompted by this topic.
Source: HerCanberra
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Liv Hewson's Catch-22
Liv Hewson, who is well-known for her work in "Santa Clarita Diet" and "Bombshell," recently expressed her displeasure with the small number of Emmy categories. Hewson cannot apply for an Emmy as a nonbinary actor since the awards ceremony only recognises the "Actor" and "Actress" categories, leaving no room for performers who identify as gender nonconforming or nonbinary.
The performer expressed their dissatisfaction on social media, complaining that they felt forgotten by the business and its awards system. They demanded that the Television Academy reevaluate its stance on gender-specific categories and provide a more welcoming atmosphere for all artists. Many people both inside and outside the entertainment industry have found Hewson's statement to be true, which has sparked discussions about the need for change.
The Television Academy's Viewpoint
Similar complaints of the Television Academy, which manages the Emmy Awards, have been levelled in the past. The Academy has given artists the option to select the category in which they want to be considered in response to these worries. Inclusion for nonbinary and gender nonconforming performers like Hewson, who might not feel comfortable being pigeonholed into either the "Actor" or "Actress" categories, is still not entirely addressed by this strategy.
The Academy's present strategy reveals a readiness to change the discourse over gender identity as it develops. The organisation must, though, keep looking into methods to foster a more welcoming workplace that meets the requirements of all performers, regardless of their gender identity.
Future Consequences and Potential Solutions
The introduction of a distinct category for nonbinary or gender-nonconforming artists might be one answer. The fact that this strategy places these performers apart from their cisgender counterparts, however, raises the possibility of additional marginalisation. Alternatively, the Academy might think about doing away with all of the gender-specific categories and rewarding performers solely for their roles, regardless of their gender identity. This would create a more level playing field and provide every performer the chance to be acknowledged for their efforts.
Other award ceremonies, like the Oscars, Golden Globes, and SAG Awards, all experience difficulties with inclusiveness for nonbinary and gender nonconforming performers, therefore this problem goes beyond the Emmy Awards. These organisations must evaluate their existing practices and try to develop a more welcoming atmosphere that values and recognises the skills of all performers, regardless of gender identification.
With celebrities like Asia Kate Dillon, Rain Dove, and Ruby Rose pushing boundaries and shattering preconceptions, the entertainment business is gradually noticing more nonbinary and gender-nonconforming performers rising to popularity. This transformation emphasises how crucial it is to modify award ceremonies and other institutions within the business to reflect these changes and guarantee that all talents are recognised fairly.
And finally:
The predicament of Liv Hewson emphasises the necessity for a more open-minded approach to award categories in the entertainment sector. It's crucial for award shows and industry organisations to adapt and provide venues that respect and appreciate the many talents within the entertainment business as discussions surrounding gender identity and representation continue to develop. It is essential for the business to critically examine its procedures and strive towards creating a climate that accepts and encourages artists of all gender identities, guaranteeing that everyone has an equal chance at success.