Bella Ramsey has called on award shows to be more inclusive after their “uncomfortable” experience submitting for the 2023 Emmys.
Over the last few years, the topic of gender-specific award show categories has taken center stage when discussing non-binary inclusivity within the entertainment sphere.
While some award shows have moved toward genderless categories, other big-name ceremonies like the Oscars, BAFTA’s, Golden Globes and Emmys have yet to implement their own inclusive measures.
In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Ramsey – who now uses they/them pronouns – opened up about their “uncomfortable” experience while submitting for the upcoming Emmy Awards.
“The categories at the moment feel extremely gendered with the language around them,” the Hilda star explained.
Ramsey went on to say that they consulted The Last of Us creator Craig Mazin on potential options – including not submitting at all.
Ultimately, they decided to submit for the actress category – a label they don’t identify as.
“I don’t want the limitations in terms of the language in the categories to be a reason that non-binary actors like me can’t be celebrated,” they explained.
“And it can open up a conversation about how it feels – as long as I’m aware of the fact that it’s not ideal, but also that finding alternatives is really complex.”
Lastly, Ramsey opened up about the importance of award shows creating space for non-binary performers, stating: “For [non-binary and nonconforming people] to have a say and be part of those discussions and those conversations, that’s really important.
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“I just hope there’s more space for non-binary people to be recognised within [future] categories.”
Ramsey isn’t the first non-binary talent to speak out about gendered categories at major award shows.
Back in April, Yellowjackets star Liv Hewson – who uses they/them pronouns – opted out of Emmy consideration due to gendered categories.
“There’s not a place for me in the acting categories. It would be inaccurate for me to submit myself as an actress. It neither makes sense for me to be lumped in with the boys,” they explained to Variety.
“It’s not quite straightforward and not that loaded. I can’t submit myself for this because there’s no space for me.”
In February, & Juliet star Justin David Sullivan – who goes by he/she/they pronouns – announced that they wouldn’t be submitting for the 2023 Tony Awards.
“I was disheartened to learn that the Tony Awards are not planning on making this year’s nomination categories more inclusive of gender expansive or trans non-binary performers like myself,” they wrote on Instagram.
The Crown star Emma Corrin – who goes by they/them pronouns – also called on the award shows to have gender-neutral categories while speaking to the BBC.
“I don’t think the categories are inclusive enough at the moment,” Corrin told the news outlet in November.
“It’s difficult for me at the moment trying to justify in my head being non-binary and being nominated in female categories.”
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