“J. Harrison Ghee and Alex Newell Make History as Non-Binary Actors in Tony Awards”

J. Harrison Ghee and Alex Newell Make History as First Nonbinary Acting Winners at Tony Awards

J. Harrison Ghee and Alex Newell have made history at the 76th Tony Awards as the first openly nonbinary performers to win acting prizes.

The Groundbreaking Wins and The Need for Inclusion

The wins of Ghee and Newell are a momentous occasion in the entertainment industry and the LGBTQ+ community. It highlights the importance of inclusion and representation, particularly for marginalized groups. Ghee, who won lead actor in a musical for their performance in “Some Like It Hot,” shared during their acceptance speech, “to use [the gift that God gave me] to be effective in the world. For every trans, nonbinary, gender non-conforming human—whoever was told they couldn’t be, couldn’t be seen, this is for you.”

Newell also thanked the Broadway community in their acceptance speech for seeing them and said, “I should not be up here as a queer, non-binary, fat, Black, little baby from Massachusetts. And to anyone that thinks that they can’t do it, I’m going to look you dead in your face that you can do anything you put your mind to.”

The Importance of Being Nonbinary in the Entertainment Industry

In an interview with Variety, Ghee spoke about their decision to submit as lead actor at the Tonys and for this year’s Primetime Emmys for their performance in Fox’s anthology series “Accused.” Ghee stated, “It’s not a gendered profession to me, and I was grateful to be asked for consideration on where I wanted to be viewed. Making that decision wasn’t hard on my spirit. It was just to be confident and intentional about my work and meeting the moment.”

Newell was nominated in the “featured actor” category but had opted to compete in the supporting actor category, believing that the term “actor” is genderless.

Final Thoughts

The groundbreaking wins of J. Harrison Ghee and Alex Newell have opened doors for greater conversation and awareness of gender diversity in the entertainment industry. This should encourage the industry to provide greater opportunities, support and platform for non-binary actors, further showcasing that everyone deserves the chance to shine regardless of gender identity.