Amidst the Emmy buzz, Isa Briones calls attention to the overlooked contributions of her co-stars.
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In the whirlwind of Emmy nominations, a storm brews over Variety’s latest cover featuring Isa Briones alongside her co-stars Taylor Dearden and Katherine LaNasa. While the trio represents the show, the glaring absence of Black and brown actresses from the cover has ignited significant backlash, prompting Briones to step into the fray.
Cover controversy raises eyebrows
Variety’s cover story for Women of Emmys Season has become a focal point of criticism. The magazine states, “while LaNasa, Briones, and Dearden are on the cover of this issue, they’re representing all the women of The Pitt.” However, this claim has failed to quell dissent, as many fans express outrage over the omission of prominent Black and brown actresses from the show.
“Choosing to not include any of the black or brown women that played equally important roles in the show is definitely a choice,” one fan remarked. Another chimed in, questioning, “With all due respect, where the hell is Collins?”—a reference to Tracy Ifeachor’s character, Dr. Collins. The sentiment is echoed across social media, with many voices calling for a broader representation of the show’s diverse cast.
Briones’s heartfelt response
Amidst the uproar, Briones took to her Instagram Story to express her gratitude for being featured. “Of course I’m pinching myself that I’m on a cover of a magazine and am so grateful,” she wrote. Yet, she did not shy away from acknowledging the contributions of her fellow Black and brown cast members. “But the Black and brown women of this cast make The Pitt what it is,” she added, emphasizing their vital roles in the show’s success.
Briones’s shout-out extended to Ifeachor, Shabana Azeez, Supriya Ganesh, Kristin Villanueva, and Amielynn Abellera, all of whom are integral to the ensemble cast. This acknowledgment is crucial as it reinforces the importance of diversity in Hollywood and the need for recognition beyond the surface.
The Pitt’s rising fame
Debuting on HBO Max in January, The Pitt has rapidly become a sensational hit, celebrated for its unique storytelling. Each episode immerses viewers in an hour-long slice of life during a 15-hour emergency room shift, creating a gripping narrative that has captivated audiences. Despite the ongoing controversy, the show has secured a second season renewal, a testament to its popularity.
However, the drama surrounding its development is far from over. The estate of Michael Crichton, creator of ER, has filed a lawsuit against Warner Bros. Television, claiming that The Pitt is an unauthorized reboot of the iconic medical drama. Warner Bros. has vehemently denied these accusations, labeling them as “baseless.” The studio asserts that The Pitt stands as a fresh, original series, separate from ER.
Looking ahead
The Emmy nominations are just around the corner, and as The Pitt prepares for potential accolades, the conversation around representation in the industry remains crucial. Briones’s remarks serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by diverse actors in Hollywood. As discussions continue, one thing is clear: the voices of all actresses, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, must be amplified and celebrated.
The response to Variety’s cover serves as a critical moment in the entertainment landscape, reflecting a broader demand for inclusivity and recognition. The question lingers—will the industry take note?
