The Girls Get to Sit Down
Jean Smart won her fifth consecutive Emmy for her role in 'Hacks', using her acceptance speech to highlight the physical discomfort women often endure for industry events. The article discusses how her win reflects the broader industry recognition of complex, uncompromising female characters.
Why it matters
It highlights the evolving narrative around gender expectations in Hollywood and the increasing critical acclaim for female-led, character-driven television.
Jean Smart’s history-making Emmys win was a recognition of women who refuse to placate.
Ronaldo Bolaños / Los Angeles Times / Getty September 15, 2026, 12:16 AM ET Share Save The actor Jean Smart began her acceptance speech at the Emmys tonight with a request: “Just the men stay standing,” she said to the applauding crowd before her. “The girls get to sit down.”
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