Quinta Brunson, the star and creator of “Abbott Elementary,” marked a milestone win at Monday night’s 75th Primetime Emmy Awards.
Brunson became the first Black actress in over 40 years to win the Emmy for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series.
The last time a Black actress won the award was in 1981, when Isabel Sanford took home an Emmy for her role in “The Jeffersons,” according to the Television Academy, the organization that hosts the Emmys.
Brunson was also nominated this year for comedy guest actress (the win went to Judith Light for Poker Face) and as an executive producer for best comedy series nominee Abbott Elementary.
“I am so happy to be able to live my dream and act out comedy,” said a flustered and somewhat hoarse Brunson, her voice cracking. “I love my mom, my dad, my sisters, my brothers, my entire family so much. I love my husband. I love my cast. I love Abbott Elementary. Thank you so much.”