Actress and singer Keke Palmer etched her name in the record books by winning the Emmy for Outstanding Host for a Game Show—a first for a Black woman. Her groundbreaking victory was for hosting the NBC game show revival Password.
A Triumph 15 Years In the Making
During the recent Creative Arts Emmy Awards, Palmer became the first woman since 2009 to take home the prize for Outstanding Host. She bested several heavyweight contenders, including Ken Jennings and Mayim Bialik of Jeopardy!
In her acceptance speech, a stunned Palmer said, “I’m really just so thankful, I’m almost speechless…Thank you to Jimmy Fallon, thank you to NBC.”
Her win carries special significance as Password received its first nomination in 50 years. The category itself also made history by being included in the Primetime Emmys for the first time.
Cementing Her Star Power
At just 30 years old, Keke Palmer has already built an acclaimed career across music, film, and television. She landed her big break as a teenager in the 2006 indie film Akeelah and the Bee.
After earning a Daytime Emmy in 2021, this Primetime Emmy win solidifies Palmer’s versatility and popularity. As the first Black woman ever nominated—let alone to win—the prize, her barrier-breaking success spotlights much-needed diversity in the entertainment industry.
NBC Chairman Paul Telegdy raved about Palmer’s unique talents.
“Sharp, charming, and quick-witted all while looking like a superstar—there’s no one like Keke Palmer.”
Indeed, Palmer’s charismatic yet down-to-earth style has powered her meteoric rise to fame. As she proudly declared on social media, “Couldn’t do it without you @jimmyfallon! It’s a true honor, I won!”
Her historic Emmy serves as an inspiration for a new generation of talent. Palmer is leading the charge in breaking boundaries and bringing underrepresented perspectives into the mainstream spotlight.
