Sally Field used her Emmy acceptance speech at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles to criticize Donald Trump’s trade policies and actions toward Canada, while also urging the entertainment industry to oppose the proposed Paramount and Warner Bros. merger. After receiving the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for portraying Tova Sullivan in Netflix’s Remarkably Bright Creatures, the 79-year-old actress gave these remarks on Monday night.
Emmy History and Acceptance Speech Remarks
Field’s victory at the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards made her the oldest performer to ever win in the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie category. The actress is already a two-time Best Actress Oscar winner for her roles in 1979’s Norma Rae and 1984’s Places in the Heart.
During her time on stage, Field thanked Canada alongside the standard list of acknowledgments, drawing a loud ovation from the audience of stars. “Blessed Canada, our friends,” Field said on stage, referencing recent political tensions and trade disputes between Washington and Ottawa.
Addressing Political Tensions and Trade Disputes
Field’s comments targeted what she characterized as Trump’s efforts to undermine America’s northern neighbor. Trump’s campaign against Canada has involved a trade war and an executive order that renamed Lake Ontario to “Lake America.”
The actress connected international politics with domestic industry concerns by pivoting to the ongoing corporate consolidation in Hollywood. She specifically urged the audience to push back against the $111 billion merger involving Paramount and Warner Bros.
Corporate Consolidation and Industry Warnings
Paramount’s MAGA CEO David Ellison is currently pursuing a forceful effort to acquire Warner Bros., a transaction that would likely have economic, cultural, and political consequences. Field warned the creative community against allowing these corporate moves to diminish diverse storytelling.
“We’re the arts,” Field stated. “We matter. Our voices matter. Our diversity, our unique storytelling matters. We can’t let those voices be silenced or compromised or merged.”
Pro Tip
Frequently Asked Questions
What award did Sally Field win at the Emmys?
For her portrayal of Tova Sullivan in Netflix’s Remarkably Bright Creatures, Sally Field took home the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie.
Why did Sally Field mention Canada in her speech?
Field thanked Canada and referred to the country as “our friends” to push back against political attacks and trade disputes directed at America’s northern neighbor.
What corporate merger did Field urge the industry to fight?
Field urged the entertainment industry to oppose the $111 billion merger between Paramount and Warner Bros.
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