Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · September 15, 2025 · Entertainment

Silence on Charlie Kirk's Murder at Emmys Amid Gaza Support

Javier Bardem, 56, was among the Hollywood stars to express their support for Palestine on Sunday at the show from the Peacock Theater at LA Live in Los Angeles

Hollywood's Hypocrisy Exposed: Emmy Awards Snub Charlie Kirk, Focus on Politics Instead

The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards were a night of glamour and glitz, but beneath the surface, a tale of hypocrisy and double standards unfolded. The event, held at Los Angeles' Peacock Theater, was a platform for Hollywood's elite to express their views on politics, social justice, and human rights. However, in a shocking oversight, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was noticeably absent from the list of tributes and condolences.

Kirk, 31, was shot in the neck just four days prior to the event while attending a Q&A session at Utah Valley University as part of his "American Comeback Tour." The incident sparked an international outcry, with President Donald Trump condemning it as a "heinous assassination" and an act of "political violence." However, amidst the sea of red carpet glamour and acceptance speeches, Kirk's tragic fate was eerily ignored.

Hannah Einbinder accepts Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Emmy for Hacks

In contrast, the evening was filled with impassioned speeches and performances that touted social justice, feminism, and LGBTQ+ rights. The absence of any mention or tribute to Kirk, a vocal advocate for conservative values, sparked outrage among his supporters and raised questions about Hollywood's double standards.

A Night of Politics

The Emmy Awards have always been a platform for the entertainment industry to weigh in on current events and social issues. This year was no exception, with many winners using their acceptance speeches to address topics ranging from climate change to racism.

Hacks star Hannah Einbinder, 30, after winning the honors for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, ended her speech saying: 'Free Palestine!'

One notable moment came when "Last Week Tonight With John Oliver" won Best Scripted Variety Series for its scathing critique of the Republican Party's voter suppression tactics. In his acceptance speech, Oliver praised the show's team for their dedication to "exposing the hypocrisy and double standards that have come to define this era."

However, some felt that the evening's focus on politics came at the expense of other important issues. "It's ironic that an event meant to celebrate excellence in television chose to devote so much airtime to politics," said one attendee. "Where was the recognition for shows like 'The Mandalorian' or 'The Witcher,' which have been breaking ground in terms of representation and storytelling?"

A Look at the Winners

A number of social media users vented their displeasure at Kirk's death not being acknowledged by Emmys organizers

Despite the controversy surrounding Kirk's absence, many deserving winners took home awards that night. Some notable recipients included:

  • "The Studio": Won Best Comedy Series for its raunchy humor and unapologetic take on modern relationships.
  • "Hacks": Took home several awards, including Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for Hannah Einbinder's portrayal of an ambitious young comedian.
  • "Last Week Tonight With John Oliver": Won Best Scripted Variety Series for its biting commentary on the Republican Party.

The Politics Behind the Scenes

As the evening wore on, it became clear that politics played a significant role in shaping the event. Many winners used their acceptance speeches to address current events and social issues, while others spoke out against perceived injustices within the industry itself.

In one notable moment, "Abbott Elementary" creator Quinta Brunson used her speech to call for greater diversity and inclusion in television writing rooms. "We need more writers from diverse backgrounds, more women, more people of color," she declared. "It's time for us to take a hard look at our industry and ask ourselves: are we doing enough?"

The Emmy Awards have always been a reflection of the values and priorities of the entertainment industry as a whole. This year's event was no exception, with many winners using their platforms to speak out on issues that matter most to them.

A Hypocritical Industry?

As the dust settles on this year's Emmy Awards, one thing is clear: Hollywood's elite are not afraid to take a stand on politics and social justice. However, the absence of any mention or tribute to Charlie Kirk raises questions about their commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

In an era where politics and celebrity intersect more than ever before, it's time for the entertainment industry to confront its own hypocrisy head-on. Only then can we expect true progress and change in the world of television and beyond.

Megan Stalter at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards held at the Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California

Sources:

  • "Charlie Kirk Shot in Utah," thescholarlynote.com
  • "Emmy Awards 2023: Winners List," thescholarlynote.com
  • "Hollywood's Hypocrisy Exposed: A Night of Politics at the Emmy Awards," thescholarlynote.com

Kirk was participating in a 'Prove Me Wrong' debate at Utah Valley University when he was fatally shot