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8 Times the Critics' Choice Awards Were Amazing for Diversity in Hollywood

After #OscarsSoWhite, Sunday night's ceremony was a positive sign for the future.

By Morgan Evans
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On Sunday night, the Critics' Choice Awards continued the awards season rollout by honoring the best in television and film for the year. Though Hollywood has been consistently called out for being "so white," last night's ceremony boasted a diverse group of winners, with black stars in particular taking home several statuettes. See them all—and watch their inspiring speeches—below.

1

Viola Davis Wins the "See Her" Award

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Last night was Viola Davis's night. Not only did she take home the award for Best Supporting Actress in the Denzel Washington-directed adaption of Fences, but the actress held back tears as she accepted the first annual #SeeHer Honor Award, celebrating the ANA campaign, which is working to eliminate bias against women in media and advertising. "I truly believe that the privilege of life is being who you are," Davis said in her heartfelt acceptance speech. She left the stage to a standing ovation.

2

Donald Glover Wins Best Actor in a Comedy Series

First-time nominee Glover, who took home the award for his role in the FX series Atlanta, was shocked by his win, telling the audience he didn't expect to receive the award while up against actors such as Jeffrey Tambor and Will Forte. "I just want to thank FX for letting us do what we wanted to do and not being like, 'That's nuts, you can't do that,'" he said.

3

'Moonlight' Wins For Best Acting Ensemble

An emotional film about the journey of a boy struggling with his sexuality and dysfunctional family over 17 years, Moonlight was a big winner at the Critics' Choice Awards, winning two of its whopping 10 nominations. Star Mahershala Ali humbly accepted the award on behalf of the Moonlight ensemble: "It's been and an amazing experience and a wonderful journey; thank you for recognizing our work."

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4

Mahershala Ali Wins Best Supporting Actor

In addition to his taking home the award for Best Acting Ensemble with his co-stars, Ali had the opportunity to grace the stage again, accepting a solo award for his supporting role in Moonlight. The actor started out his acceptance speech by thanking his wife for supporting his struggle throughout his career, then moved on to the film's director, Barry Jenkins: "I think the only thing that saddens me in some way is that not every actor is going to have the opportunity to work with Barry Jenkins, and I wish that for all of you."

5

Sterling K. Brown Wins Best Supporting Actor in a Movie, Made for TV or Limited Series

Critics Choice Awards

It's been quite a year for the 40-year-old actor, who made his way onto the scene with his break out role as Christopher Daren in The People v. O.J. Simpson. The actor, who now stars in the hit NBC drama This Is Us, also celebrated a win for Best Movie Made For TV Or Limited Series with his People cast.

6

Regina King Wins Best Supporting Actor in a Movie, Made For TV or Limited Series

Critics Choice Awards

Though Regina King was not present to formally accept her award last night, the actress added another win for her role in the ABC series American Crime. In addition to this Critics' Choice Awards, King also has two Emmys and an NAACP Image Award for her work on the show.

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7

Courtney B. Vance Wins Best Actor in a Movie, Made For TV or Limited Series

Critics Choice Awards

It was a People v. O.J. Simpson-themed night. The show took home four awards for Best Limited Series, including Best Actor for Vance for his demanding role as Johnnie Cochran.

8

Thandie Newton Wins Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

Critics Choice Awards

The smash hit HBO series Westworld took home the award for Best Actress (Evan Rachel Wood) and also gave Best Supporting Actress to Thandie Newton, who was not present to accept her award.

From: Harper's BAZAAR US
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