[Dallas, TX – August 28th]
With hit shows like “Empire,” ”black-ish” and “How to Get Away With Murder,” diversity is the new normal in TV.
“Diversity no longer means niche,” said Jason George, head of diversity efforts for the actors union. “Diversity is mainstream.”
In a year when the Academy Awards were criticized for an all-white slate of acting nominees, TV actors are toasting the opportunities on the small screen for women, people of color and people with disabilities.
Diverse casting could even make history on Emmy night: If either Taraji P. Henson of “Empire” or Viola Davis of “How to Get Away With Murder” win for lead dramatic actress, she will be the first black woman to do so in that category.
George said “the ‘Empire’ effect” and “the Shonda Rhimes effect” have inspired agents and studios to intentionally seek actors “from the diversity categories” for lead roles.
AP Entertainment Writer Sandy Cohen
The Emmy Awards will be presented Sept. 20
