Storm Reid is well on her way to superstardom after winning her very first Emmy.
The young actor (and Teen Vogue cover star) took home the coveted trophy last night at the 75th annual Creative Arts Emmy Awards, which are not televised, unlike the main award show. Reid won the award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series for her role as Riley in HBO's critically acclaimed show, The Last of Us, which also stars Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey. This marks the actor's first Emmy.
In an emotional acceptance speech to the media after winning the category, Reid joked through tears, “I'm such a mess” as she thanked her family and friends.
“I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into when I signed on to be Riley in The Last of Us,” Reid told reporters. “I knew it was going to be special, but I didn’t know it was gonna be quite this special.”
Reid added that the video game-inspired series allowed her to “re-fall in love with storytelling.”
“It’s not that I fell out of love with storytelling, but I think my role in The Last of Us really reinforced my love and passion to be able to tell meaningful stories and to be a representation for young women, young Black women, young, queer Black women,” Reid continued. “It was absolutely special to watch and I always say that I feel like I would be a big fan of the show, even if I wasn’t a part of the show.”
Reid played the role of Riley in one episode of the sci-fi drama series, based on a videogame of the same name. In the episode called “Left Behind,” Reid plays the best friend/ almost lover of Bella Ramsey's character, Ellie. The episode is a flashback to Ellie's last time seeing her best friend, where they share a kiss. The emotional episode showcases both actors' incredible performances.
“This is proof you can do anything. I’m just a young girl from Atlanta, Georgia,” Reid said.
The Last of Us also received seven other awards on Saturday, which indicates the popular show may take home more Emmys at next week's award ceremony. That will air on January 15, 2024.
Storm Reid was nominated for awards in the past, including an NAACP Award for her breakout role in A Wrinkle in Time. Reid has since been recognized and praised for her role in HBO's popular teen drama, Euphoria, playing Gia, who is the younger sister of Zendaya's character Rue.
