75th Emmy Awards Makes History With All-Black Production Team Led By Black Female Executives
In a historic move, the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards, set to air on January 15, 2024, will feature an all-Black executive producer team, marking the first time in its 75-year history. Adding to this milestone, the awards ceremony will have Black host Anthony Anderson for the third consecutive year.
Dionne Harmon and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay, both accomplished professionals at Jesse Collins Entertainment, lead this groundbreaking production team. Dionne Harmon, the company’s president, has a track record of advocating for diversity and inclusion in the shows she has worked on. Jeannae Rouzan-Clay, serving as SVP of Specials at Jesse Collins Entertainment, is instrumental in bringing Harmon’s vision to life.
In an industry where inclusion remains a pressing issue, this achievement is significant. A 2020 report by UCLA revealed that Hollywood’s top leadership positions are predominantly occupied by white individuals, with men holding the majority of these roles. Dionne Harmon noted, “As women, we are constantly faced with discrimination and other challenges just by our mere existence.” She emphasized the importance of persistence, resourcefulness, and strength in producing a major television awards show.
Jeannae Rouzan-Clay stressed the significance of championing minority voices and faces in the industry. “Remaining vigilant in pitching new minority faces and voices remains paramount in my work as a producer,” she stated.
This historic move follows other remarkable achievements by Black women at the Emmys. In 2022, Sheryl Lee Ralph won Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, Zendaya secured Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, and Lizzo celebrated multiple wins for her Amazon reality show. Keke Palmer also made history as the first Black woman nominated for and winning Outstanding Host of a Game Show in 15 years at the Creative Arts Emmys in 2023.
This year’s 75th Emmy Awards promises to be a groundbreaking celebration of talent and diversity in television, with a powerful all-Black production team leading the way.
