Actress Hannah Einbinder made headlines at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards by using her first acceptance speech to call out ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza.
After winning Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for Hacks, Einbinder — who is Jewish — ended her speech with a powerful “Free Palestine” shout, drawing massive attention online.
Charity Donation Controversy
Her speech went beyond the official 45-second limit, which came with a financial consequence. Host Nate Bargatze had pledged $100,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, deducting $1,000 for every extra second. Einbinder promised to personally cover the difference, ensuring the charity received the full donation.
Emmy Rules and Political Platform
At the start of the ceremony, Bargatze explained the donation incentive, saying,
“Every second you go over, we take away $1,000 from the Boys & Girls Club. I’m not taking it away — it’s you.”
While intended to keep speeches short, Einbinder’s decision underscores how the Emmys stage continues to amplify social and political messages, with her pro-Palestinian statement quickly going viral across social media.
