In 2015, the #OscarsSoWhite hashtag was introduced by activist and writer April Reign. She recently mentioned that she tends to avoid watching live award shows, citing the lack of diversity highlighted during the Primetime Emmy Awards broadcast. Notably, all major acting awards on Monday night were won by white performers, with actors of color notably absent from the winners’ list.

Reign expressed her concern by stating, “It’s not a regression, it’s definitely a stall.” The supporting actor and actress categories in a limited series were awarded at the Creative Arts Emmys last week, but these winners did not alter the overall diversity landscape of the awards.

Following the Emmys broadcast, the hashtag #EmmysSoWhite began trending on social media platforms, with users criticizing the Television Academy for its lack of inclusivity. Users shared their disappointment, with one highlighting the lack of representation in the winners’ circle and suggesting a bleak outlook for future awards.

April Reign initiated the #OscarsSoWhite movement in 2015 after all 20 acting nominees for that year’s Academy Awards were white. Despite some efforts to address diversity issues in subsequent years, Reign pointed out the persistent pattern of exclusion in this year’s Emmys results.

The Television Academy’s transparency report released in February revealed that 67% of its members in 2026 were white. While the report indicated an increase in membership diversity among certain groups, Reign emphasized the importance of addressing representation issues beyond award shows, starting with the decision-makers who shape the industry.

In a notable win outside the broadcast, Ernest Harden Jr. and Octavia Spencer secured acting trophies in guest roles. However, the lack of diversity among the main acting awards was evident, with director Hiro Murai being a standout as the first Asian filmmaker to win for best directing in a comedy series at the Emmys.

Comparing this year’s Emmys to past editions, diversity in nominations and winners has fluctuated. The number of performers of color receiving acting nominations decreased this year, raising concerns about representation in the industry. The ongoing conversation around diversity and inclusivity in the entertainment sector highlights the need for systemic change beyond award ceremonies.