LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
The actor makes history at the awards ceremony.
In a historic moment for television, Tramell Tillman became the first Black winner of the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series Emmy for his role as Seth Milchick in the Apple TV+ series, Severance. The win, which came at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards on September 14, 2025, marks a major milestone for representation in a category that has historically lacked diversity. Tillman’s victory was a highlight of the evening, capping off a night where Severance and other shows led the way in accolades.
The Victory and Its Significance
Tramell Tillman’s win for his role as the sinister but strangely charming floor manager Seth Milchick was his first Emmy nomination and victory. During his emotional acceptance speech, Tillman thanked his mother, whom he credited as his “first acting coach” and a source of unwavering support. “Mama, you were there for me when no one else was,” he said, dedicating the award to her. Tillman’s win closes a final gap at the Emmys, as no Black actor had previously won in the supporting drama actor category, despite decades of acclaimed performances by Black men in television.
Tillman’s win is seen as a victory that reflects the television industry’s continued evolution toward recognizing diverse talent in prestige drama roles. The actor, who is also the first openly gay Black man to win in this category, spoke backstage about the significance of his victory. He paid tribute to the work of Black actors who came before him, citing legends like the late Andre Braugher and Michael K. Williams. He noted that their work has long inspired him and that he was simply honored to be in their class. Tillman also highlighted how his character’s Blackness was integral to the show’s storyline, particularly in the exploration of “how race folds into the world of Lumon.”
Key Headline Points – Historic First: Tramell Tillman is the first Black man to win the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.
* Acclaimed Role: He won for his portrayal of Seth Milchick in the hit Apple TV+ series, Severance.
* Emotional Acceptance Speech: Tillman delivered an emotional speech, dedicating his win to his mother.
* Final Emmy Gap Closed: Tillman’s victory closes the last remaining gap for a Black actor to win in a major acting category at the Emmys.
* Win for Severance: The win was one of several for Severance on the night, which had received 27 nominations.
The Competitive Field
Tillman won against a highly competitive field of fellow nominees. His co-stars Zach Cherry and John Turturro were also nominated from Severance, as were Walton Goggins, Jason Isaacs, and Sam Rockwell from The White Lotus, and James Marsden from Paradise. The strength of the nominations in this category reflects the depth of talent in the current television landscape and the rise of high-quality, prestige dramas across various streaming platforms.
Tillman’s performance as Milchick, a character both menacing and comically earnest, was widely praised by critics and audiences alike. His role as the ever-present, oddly cheerful enforcer of the mysterious company Lumon was a breakout performance that captivated viewers. The success of both Tillman and the series itself is a testament to the show’s unique storytelling and compelling performances. Severance ended the night with a total of eight Emmy awards, affirming its status as one of the most celebrated shows of the season.
