February 10, 2023
Aaron Velez | Editor-in-Chief
Viola Davis is one of the most talented and versatile actresses of our time. Throughout her celebrated career, she has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry and has become a role model for aspiring actors and actresses. Her dedication to her craft and unwavering commitment to excellence has earned her widespread recognition and critical acclaim.
“Viola Davis is easily one of my favorite actresses,” said senior Carly Hoffmeister. “She elevates any cast list that she is in, no matter how star-studded.”
And this past weekend, she made history by completing what may be entertainment’s most prestigious award: The EGOT.
EGOT is an acronym for Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony, and artists or producers can only join this illustrious group when they have won one of each. So far, only 18 people in the vast world of entertainment have earned this distinction. To make this feat even more impressive for Davis, she won it for her actual performances and on-screen talent, whereas 12 of the EGOT winners won on their composing, lyrical, or producing credits. The only other performance-based EGOT winners are Jennifer Hudson (2022), Whoopi Goldberg (2002), Rita Moreno (1997), Audrey Hepburn (1994), and Helen Hayes, (1977).
“It is great to see an actual artist win an EGOT,” senior Emma Fann said. “Too often, the awards go to dozens of producers working on a show instead of the person putting their image on the line.”
The EGOT is a testament to the exceptional talent and dedication of Viola Davis. It is an achievement that recognizes the greatest in the entertainment industry and it is a mark of distinction awarded to only a select few. With her EGOT win, Davis has cemented her place as one of the greatest actresses of all time and has set a new standard for excellence in the industry.
Davis, who had a stellar performance in the hit film Woman King last year often focuses on themes of empowerment, especially within the Black community. This continues to be true with her book Finding Me, which is an autobiographical account of Davis’ early life. During the acceptance speech for the Grammy that cemented her status, Davis stated “I wrote this book to honor the six-year-old Viola. To honor her life, her joy, her trauma – everything. And it has just been such a journey,” finishing with the quip, “I just EGOT!”
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