History was made when twice-Oscar-nominated “How to Get Away With Murder” star Viola Davis won an Emmy for Outstanding Actress in a Drama series, becoming the first African-American actress to claim that prize. Davis overcame fierce competition, including Taraji P. Henson, whose own nomination made this the first year two African-American actresses were nominated in the category.
“The only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity,” an emotional Davis told the audience. Her remarks sparked a Twitter rage by “General Hospital” actress Nancy Lee Grahn, who later apologized and deleted her tweets, calling Davis “a goddess.”
Before winning an Emmy for Best Supporting Actress for her role on “Orange Is the New Black,” Uzo Aduba spent Saturday night hanging out at the NBC party at BOA Steakhouse in West Hollywood. The swanky steakhouse was bouncing on Emmy Eve as the packed house of industry-ites, who had been making the party rounds, feasted on a frenzy of food. Aduba is set to star in NBC’s upcoming live musical “The Wiz.” She went to the party with her sister after the BAFTA tea after a quick outfit change. The ladies were spotted at the Raw Bar, where crab legs, lobster, shrimp and ceviche were being served .
In other Emmy news, Regina King won an Emmy for Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie and Terrence Howard and his most recent ex-wife Mira Pak were arm-in-arm as they walked the red carpet together at Sunday night’s awards. Howard and Pak were married in October 2013, but she filed for divorce this past March. She gave birth to their son in May, and the divorce became final in July. The ex-couple wore matching wedding bands.
NBA star Russell Westbrook kicked off New York Fashion at the highly anticipated S/S16 Givenchy Show, held at Hudson River Park’s Pier 26 in New York City. The newly married All-Star donned Givenchy paired with stark white Doc Martens.
Lifetime has given the greenlight to “Un-Break My Heart,” an original movie based on singer Toni Braxton’s memoir. The authorized film will follow Braxton’s ups and downs through severe chronic illness, financial troubles and divorce while navigating her son’s autism and family struggles. Braxton will executive produce and appear in the film.