Hollywood is shining a well-deserved spotlight on two incredibly talented actors: Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey. Both have been nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series for their stellar performances in “Fellow Travelers.” Jonathan tweeted after the announcement:
It is not lost on me that this sort of recognition is rare. I’ve grown up savouring the minimal queer television and film on offer whilst battling problematic media and societal criticism of queer life. I have loved so many award winning dramatic performances of gay characters but for Matt and I to be nominated together as gay actors feels like the sort of progress that would have made the world an easier place to grow up in. For that I am grateful and so unbelievably proud. Thank you to the TV Academy for this opportunity.”
We were kneeling in prayer, hoping this would happen. Congratulations to @MattBomer, Jonathan Bailey, and @ronnyswaner on their #Emmy Award Nominations! #FellowTravelers pic.twitter.com/l95VTJ8TqR
— SHOWTIME (@Showtime) July 17, 2024
Social Media Reactions
Fans are buzzing with excitement, flooding social media with praise and joy over the nominations. It’s heartening to see two openly gay actors being celebrated in an industry that has often struggled with representation. We’ve come a long way, but the journey isn’t over yet.
The internet is ablaze with ecstatic reactions from fans:
- @ProudFan tweeted, “Seeing Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey nominated is everything! 🌈 #FellowTravelers #Pride”
- @TVLover exclaimed, “Two openly gay actors nominated for lead roles? Hollywood, you’re doing something right! 👏 #FellowTravelers #RepresentationMatters”
- @AwardSeason posted, “Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey, thank you for your incredible performances. You deserve this recognition! 🎬🏆 #EmmyNominations”
Footage of filmupdates finding out that jonathan bailey is a nominee pic.twitter.com/RUsVjxej6R
— calypso🍉 michaela stirling’s defense attorney (@KATH0NYZ) July 17, 2024
Why This Matters
This recognition is more than just about awards. It’s a step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media, highlighting the talent and dedication of openly gay actors. While there’s still work to be done, moments like these remind us of the progress being made.
Stay tuned for more updates on the awards season, and don’t forget to cheer on Matt and Jonathan as they continue to break barriers and inspire us all.
don’t forget red white and royal blue is also nominated for outstanding television movie
Think of it as a glass half empty situation. Jody Foster also got nominated, as did RuPaul (I think the 10th time, or maybe if he likely wins, it will be for the 10th?), and a few others, such as Andrew Scott.
But in the specific case of RW&RB, only the movie got a nomination, none of the actors did. And in the case of Matt and Jonathan, THEY got a nomination, but Fellow Travelers’ didn’t.
But you are right in one respect – Instinct should have covered ALL of the G/L nominees/nominated projects.