On Sunday, September 14, 2025, the world of television gathered at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, broadcast live on CBS and Paramount+. While many expected the night to be filled with glamorous gowns, emotional speeches, and recognition for the best shows on air, one particular moment became the focal point of global conversation.
That moment came when Hacks star Hannah Einbinder was crowned the winner of Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. The 30-year-old actress delivered an emotional and humorous speech, thanking her colleagues, family, and her iconic co-star Jean Smart. But as her remarks reached the climax, she dropped a line that got bleeped out on live television. Viewers later learned she had ended her speech with: “Go birds, f— ICE, and free Palestine.”
Her words sparked a storm of applause, criticism, and widespread debate, making this year’s Emmys more than just a celebration of television—it became a platform for bold political statements.
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Hannah Einbinder’s Rise: From Comedy Stages to Emmy Winner
Before her historic win, Hannah Einbinder was already on the radar of comedy enthusiasts. Known for her portrayal of Ava Daniels in HBO Max’s Hacks, she has been nominated in the same Emmy category for all four seasons of the show. This year’s win marked her first victory, cementing her as a rising force in comedy.
What makes Einbinder’s success even more noteworthy is her family background. She is the daughter of Laraine Newman, an original cast member of Saturday Night Live, and Chad Einbinder, a commercial actor and director. Growing up in Los Angeles, surrounded by the entertainment industry, Hannah was exposed early to both the glamour and challenges of show business.
In interviews, she has often credited her parents with giving her a realistic outlook on fame. They warned her about the cutthroat nature of Hollywood but also nurtured her love for comedy. This balance of caution and encouragement shaped her work ethic and authenticity—qualities that were on full display at the Emmys.
The Emmy Speech That Shocked the World
Hannah Einbinder’s acceptance speech began with her signature wit. She joked about being “committed to losing” and how winning felt equally “punk rock.” She then turned emotional, thanking the creators of Hacks for changing her life and describing co-star Jean Smart as “like the sun” whose warmth she gets to bask in.
However, the moment that went viral came at the very end. As her closing words were bleeped out, audiences speculated what she had said. Backstage, Einbinder clarified:
This raw statement immediately dominated social media, making her the most talked-about celebrity of the night. Her remarks placed her in the spotlight not only as an actress but also as a political voice.
Why Hannah Spoke About Palestine
In the press room, Einbinder explained why she chose to use her platform to address the issue of Palestine. She revealed she has close friends in Gaza, including doctors and teachers working in refugee camps. She expressed her solidarity with them, emphasizing that her advocacy comes not only from friendship but also from her Jewish identity.
Her words highlighted a perspective that resonated with some and shocked others, particularly as debates about Israel and Palestine remain deeply polarizing.
Political Statements at the 77th Emmys
Einbinder wasn’t the only star to use the Emmy stage and red carpet for activism. Earlier in the evening, her Hacks co-star Megan Stalter appeared in a simple white T-shirt emblazoned with the words “CEASE FIRE!” Spanish actor Javier Bardem, wearing a keffiyeh, also made headlines by denouncing the situation in Gaza and calling for sanctions against Israel.
These statements underscored a broader shift at the Emmys. While Hollywood has long been a place where stars voice political opinions, the 2025 awards show went beyond subtle lapel pins. Instead, artists openly embraced bold stances, pushing the event into the global political spotlight.
A Competitive Category Filled with Icons
Einbinder’s win was especially significant considering the competition. The nominees for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series were among the most talented women in television:
- Catherine O’Hara (The Studio)
- Kathryn Hahn (The Studio)
- Jessica Williams (Shrinking)
- Liza Colón-Zayas (The Bear)
- Janelle James (Abbott Elementary)
- Sheryl Lee Ralph (Abbott Elementary)
Each nominee brought immense talent and fan bases, making Einbinder’s win both surprising and groundbreaking. O’Hara, for example, secured her 10th Emmy nomination, while Ralph had previously won in 2022 for her role in Abbott Elementary. Colón-Zayas was the reigning winner for The Bear, while Williams and Hahn added further depth to the category with acclaimed performances.
That Einbinder triumphed in such a stacked lineup speaks to the cultural impact of Hacks and her ability to connect with audiences in a unique way.
Hannah Einbinder and Her Legacy of Comedy
Hannah’s mother, Laraine Newman, made history as one of the first women on Saturday Night Live. Newman’s career in both live comedy and voiceover work spanned decades, ensuring that comedy was always the “language of the house.” Meanwhile, Hannah’s father Chad instilled in her a love of sports and family traditions, further grounding her outside the Hollywood bubble.
Hannah herself has described growing up in a home where everyone was “performing for each other.” This environment nurtured her timing, wit, and courage to take risks. Her Emmy win is not only a personal achievement but also a continuation of a family legacy deeply rooted in comedy and performance.
The Reactions: Cheers and Controversy
Social media exploded after Einbinder’s speech. Many fans celebrated her courage to speak openly about Palestine, hailing her as one of the few Jewish voices in Hollywood willing to criticize Israel publicly. Activists praised her for amplifying marginalized voices, while others criticized her for bringing politics into what they believe should be an entertainment-focused event.
Even within her family, the spotlight hasn’t always been easy. Last year, her mother drew criticism after angrily posting about Hannah’s loss to Liza Colón-Zayas. Though Newman later apologized, the incident showed the emotional weight these awards can carry for the Einbinder family.
This year, however, Newman and her family could celebrate. Yet the public debate surrounding Hannah’s political remarks ensured that her win would never be seen as just another award—it became a cultural flashpoint.
The Broader Impact on Hollywood
The Emmys 2025 revealed more than just winners and losers; it exposed the evolving role of celebrities as activists. In an era when silence is often seen as complicity, stars like Einbinder and Bardem are pushing the industry to reckon with its influence beyond entertainment.
Hollywood has historically had mixed responses to political outspokenness, with some stars facing backlash and even career setbacks. Yet for younger audiences, activism is increasingly valued, and Einbinder’s generation of performers is redefining what it means to be a public figure.
Her speech will likely influence future awards shows, where stars may feel encouraged to speak up about causes they believe in. Whether this trend leads to meaningful change or more controversy remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—silence is no longer the safe option.
Conclusion: The Night That Made Hannah Einbinder a Legend
The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards will be remembered not only for recognizing the year’s best television but also for Hannah Einbinder’s unforgettable speech. From her witty humor to her emotional gratitude, and finally her bold call for justice in Palestine, she transformed a personal victory into a global conversation.
Her words symbolized the intersection of entertainment, identity, and activism in 2025. By leveraging her platform to amplify marginalized voices, Einbinder cemented her place not only as a comedy star but also as a cultural force unafraid to challenge norms.
As Hollywood moves forward, her Emmy win and speech may stand as a turning point—proof that art and politics can collide in powerful, unforgettable ways.
