Bold Emmy Speech: Hannah Einbinder's Censorship Sparks Debate

It was a night to remember at the 77th Emmy Awards, but perhaps for unexpected reasons. On 14 September 2025, Hannah Einbinder took center stage to accept her award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy, marking her first win in this category. Known for her dynamic performance in HBO’s critically acclaimed series Hacks, her moment of triumph quickly transformed into a moment of controversy.

A Humorous Start to a Bold Stand

Einbinder commenced her acceptance speech with a dose of humor, lightening the mood by referencing her previous Emmy nominations. Her acknowledgement of her peers and heartfelt thanks to co-star Jean Smart were underscored with joy. However, a swift shift in tone at the speech’s conclusion caught everyone by surprise.

The Censored Line and Its Impact

With a nod to her favorite NFL team, the Philadelphia Eagles, Einbinder concluded her speech with a phrase sure to stir reactions: “Go Birds, f*** ICE, and Free Palestine.” While her call for Palestinian freedom reached the viewers, CBS swiftly censored the profanity directed at ICE. This led to an outpouring of discourse about censorship and political expression at major award shows.

Embracing the Political in Entertainment

This contentious moment was not out of character for Einbinder, who has consistently voiced her political views. Known for her outspoken criticism of US immigration policies and the Israeli military’s actions in Gaza, her Emmy statement mirrored previous declarations. Her alignment with over 3,900 industry figures by signing an open letter against Israeli institutions highlighted her commitment to her beliefs. Moreover, her earlier speeches have explicitly condemned actions leading to significant humanitarian consequences in conflict zones.

Responses and Reactions

Following her speech, Emmy host Nate Bargatze addressed the censorship light-heartedly, suggesting a symbolic swear jar while confirming CBS’s action. As unedited clips of Einbinder’s speech surged online, the conversation about free speech at high-profile events gained momentum.

Industry and Network Dynamics

While Paramount, CBS’s parent company, expressed its opposition to boycotts against Israeli creatives, no official statement directly addressed the speech’s live interruption. Nonetheless, this event sparked discussions concerning the intersection of entertainment, politics, and the media’s role in shaping narratives.

A Series Finale and a Career in Motion

As Hacks gears up for its fifth and final season, Einbinder’s profound speech leaves an indelible mark. Despite the show’s impending conclusion, her artistry and advocacy continue to resonate within the entertainment community and beyond. Her promise to cover any excess in speech time with a joke showcased her blend of resolve and humor — a hallmark of her personality. According to International Business Times UK, the night will be remembered for more than its awards.