Liv Hewson, the non-binary Australian actor, has chosen not to submit themselves for Emmy Award nominations due to the gendered acting categories. The actor, who identifies as non-binary, says submitting themselves for an acting category would be “inaccurate” since there’s no category that accurately represents their gender identity. Hewson plays the role of ‘Van’ in Showtime’s Yellowjackets, a psychological thriller series that follows a team of high-school girls soccer players who survive a plane crash deep in the wilderness.
Hewson’s decision comes amid a growing movement for greater inclusivity and equality in the entertainment industry. Emma Corrin, a nonbinary actor, and Jamie Lee Curtis have also expressed support for gender-neutral categories at awards shows. Hewson acknowledged concerns that gender-neutral categories could lead to less recognition for female actors, but they countered that there are no gendered categories for directors or other behind-the-scenes positions. Hewson believes that gender-neutral categories would help promote equality and inclusivity in the industry.
However, Hewson’s decision not to submit themselves for Emmy nominations has raised questions about the potential impact on non-binary actors and whether this could result in fewer opportunities for recognition. Hewson believes that it’s important to challenge the status quo in order to promote inclusivity and equality, and that their decision not to submit themselves for Emmy nominations is a small step in that direction.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to promote greater inclusivity and diversity in the entertainment industry. While there is still much work to be done, the growing support for gender-neutral categories at awards shows is a positive step towards achieving greater equality for all actors, regardless of their gender identity. As Hewson says, “You can keep things as they are right now—I just won’t be participating.”