Comedian and writer Hannah Einbeinder sparked controversy at the Emmy Awards on Sunday with an acceptance speech that mixed sports references with sharp political statements.
While accepting an award for her role in a television series, the Philadelphia native said, “Go Birds, F*ck ICE and Free Palestine.” “Go Birds” referred to the Philadelphia Eagles football team, while the other remarks criticised US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and expressed support for the Palestinian cause.
The comments, broadcast live from Los Angeles, drew swift and divided reactions. Supporters praised Einbeinder’s boldness, while critics said the language and political content were inappropriate for the ceremony. Clips of the speech quickly spread across social media, fueling debate over whether award shows should serve as platforms for activism.
In a later statement, Einbeinder expanded on her “Free Palestine” remark, saying, “It is my obligation as a Jewish person to distinguish Jews from the state of Israel because our religion and our culture is such an important and long-standing institution that is really separate to this sort of ethnonationalist state.” She stressed the importance of separating Jewish identity from the policies of the Israeli government.
Organisers of the Emmys have not issued a response to the incident. Einbeinder has previously used her work to address social and political issues, and her latest remarks add to ongoing debates about political expression in entertainment.
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