Keivonn Woodard, a 10-year-old actor from Bowie, has made history as both the first Black deaf actor and the second youngest performer ever to receive an Emmy nomination for his acclaimed guest role on HBO’s “The Last of Us.”
Nominated for Powerful Portrayal
Woodard secured the historic Emmy nod in the Outstanding Guest Actor category for his performance on the post-apocalyptic drama series “The Last of Us.”
He plays Sam, a deaf child with cancer, in a heart-wrenching turn that critics praised as “astonishing” and “fantastic.” Woodard is the youngest nominee ever for the award.
Breaking Multiple Barriers
As the first Black deaf actor nominated for an Emmy, Woodard’s achievement also makes him the first deaf Black nominee across all categories in the award show’s 75-year history.
For the Maryland student, it marks a groundbreaking Emmy debut after his first ever professional acting role on the critically acclaimed show.
Mother’s Pride and Surprise
Woodard’s mother April expressed feeling awestruck by her son’s rapid rise to making history in his first TV production. But Keivonn reassured that he “got this” despite entering unprecedented territory.
April highlighted the nomination’s deep significance for representation, as a Black deaf parent herself who faced career barriers in acting.
Multitalented Trailblazer
Beyond acting, hockey is Woodard’s other passion, and he aspires to shatter another ceiling by becoming the first deaf Black NHL player.
With his innate talent and determination, the dynamic 10-year-old continues reaching incredible heights on screen and the ice alike.
Keivonn Woodard’s barrier-breaking Emmy honor recognizes both his moving performance and his trailblazing identity, forging new representation for Black deaf youth chasing their dreams.
