"I have a duty to speak out": Alan Cumming wins Emmy and makes bold statement with Trans Pride pin
– 2 min read
Scottish actor and presenter Alan Cumming made headlines at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards not only for his historic win but also for his powerful show of solidarity with the trans community.
Cumming took home the Emmy for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program for his role on The Traitors, a breakout hit on Peacock. In doing so, he ended RuPaul’s eight-year reign in the category, marking a significant shift in the reality TV landscape.
But it wasn’t just the award that caught attention. On the red carpet and during his acceptance speech, Cumming wore a striking accessory: a decorative medal styled like a military honour, adorned with the pastel blue, pink, and white stripes of the transgender flag. The pin, which read “Not a Phase”, was a subtle yet defiant message in support of trans rights.
Speaking to Variety on the red carpet, Cumming explained, “It’s got trans colours, and it says ‘not a phase’, because [being trans] is not. I feel I have a duty to speak out for people who are less fortunate than me - and especially right now, with trans people in this country, who are being persecuted so unnecessarily and unfairly”.
During his acceptance speech, Cumming thanked the cast and crew of The Traitors, many of whom filmed in challenging Scottish weather, and gave a heartfelt nod to fans who host themed parties and dress up as him. “We see you, we love you,” he said. “It’s a difficult time we live in, but it’s so great that our show brings a little bit of joy into this life”.
The Traitors also won Outstanding Competition Program, beating out long-time favourites like RuPaul’s Drag Race, Survivor, and Top Chef.
Alan Cumming will soon star alongside David Morrissey in Russell T Davies' bold new LGBTQ+ drama Tip Toe on Channel 4.
Alan Cumming and David Morrissey to lead cast of Russell T Davies’ bold new LGBTQ+ drama ‘Tip Toe’
Channel 4 has announced a compelling new drama from acclaimed writer Russell T Davies, titled Tip Toe, with celebrated actors Alan Cumming and David Morrissey leading the cast. The five-part series, currently filming in Manchester, promises to be a gripping exploration of modern tensions and re-emerging prejudices within British society.
Graham Robson
