Emmys Awards 2024: The Bear actor Liza Colón-Zayas wins her first Emmy award, asks Latins to "vote for rights"

The Bear actor Liza Colón-Zayas wins her first Emmy award

Liza Colón-Zayas, known for her role as Tina Marrero in the hit series The Bear experienced a momentous occasion at the 2024 Emmy Awards when she won the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Her win came as a surprise to many, as established names like Meryl Streep or Hannah Einbinder were expected to take home the trophy. However, Colón-Zayas’s portrayal of Tina, a tough and resourceful cook in a chaotic kitchen, resonated deeply with both fans and critics, ultimately earning her this prestigious recognition.

Upon receiving the award, Colón-Zayas was visibly emotional. She confessed that she hadn’t prepared a speech, despite her husband, actor David Zayas, encouraging her to do so. “Thank you to my husband, David Zayas,” she said during her acceptance speech. “He told me to write a speech and I didn’t, because I didn’t think it would be possible.” She expressed disbelief at her win, especially considering the talent of her fellow nominees, many of whom are legends in the industry. She humbly asked, “How could I have thought it would be possible to be in the presence of Meryl Streep and Carol Burnett and Janelle [James] and Sheryl Lee Ralph and Hannah [Einbinder]?”

Her victory at the Emmys was a significant milestone in her career, not only because it was her first Emmy win, but also because it was her first nomination. Colón-Zayas’s win came shortly after her co-star, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, also took home an Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his work on The Bear. The show has been widely celebrated, especially for its raw portrayal of the restaurant industry and the complex relationships that unfold within a high-pressure kitchen environment.

Colón-Zayas expressed her gratitude for the show and its impact on her life, saying, “Thank you for giving me a new life with this show.” She also extended her appreciation to the other nominees, acknowledging their tremendous contributions to the industry. As she continued her speech, she made a heartfelt plea to the Latina community, urging them to make their voices heard in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. She ended with a powerful message: “Thank you to all the Latinas who are looking at me, keep believing and vote. Vote for your rights.”

This Emmy win is especially meaningful for Colón-Zayas, considering she was not nominated for the first season of The Bear. Her character, Tina, has evolved into a fan favorite, and the authenticity and depth she brings to the role have been widely praised. Tina is a fierce and determined cook, and her character’s development, combined with Colón-Zayas’s performance, has helped elevate the show to critical acclaim.

The Bear is set in a Chicago restaurant and has received widespread acclaim for its realistic depiction of life in a professional kitchen. The show explores various themes such as family, ambition, grief, and perseverance, all while capturing the intensity and camaraderie of a restaurant’s kitchen staff. The show's ability to balance these themes with sharp writing and strong performances has made it a standout hit.

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Colón-Zayas’s Emmy win came during a ceremony where The Bear continued to dominate the awards. The show’s impact on the entertainment landscape is undeniable, with viewers and critics alike praising its unique storytelling and powerful performances. For Colón-Zayas, this win cements her place as one of the standout performers of the year.

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Following her win, social media was filled with congratulations from fans and fellow actors. Many Latinas expressed their pride in seeing Colón-Zayas represent their community at such a prestigious event, noting how her win serves as an inspiration to other aspiring Latina actresses. The actress’s plea for Latinas to vote also struck a chord with many, as it highlighted the importance of civic engagement and advocacy in times of social and political uncertainty.