A morning of surprises: Emmy nominations bring joy to Carrie Coon and Tracy Letts
A bustling household and unexpected news
Carrie Coon’s morning was anything but ordinary when she discovered her Emmy nomination for her role in HBO’s “The Gilded Age”. After a grueling 16-hour day on set, her home was filled with family members who had traveled from Ohio, including her parents, brother, sister-in-law, and a few kids. The only one missing was her husband, Tracy Letts, who was also in for a surprise.
A double celebration
Coon’s agent, Jacob Fenton, was the first to break the news of her nomination for her portrayal of Bertha Russell, a determined social climber in 1880s New York. As congratulatory texts poured in, Coon realized that her husband, Letts, had also been nominated for his guest role in HBO’s “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty”. The couple’s simultaneous nominations added an extra layer of excitement to the already bustling household.
A moment of realization
Letts, who was in the city for an early photoshoot, learned about his nomination in a rather unconventional way. He had put his phone away after seeing his wife’s nomination announcement, only to find out about his own through a tearful video message from Coon and their son. This heartwarming moment highlighted the couple’s deep connection and mutual support.
The rarity of dual nominations
Coon’s mother wondered if their dual nominations were a historical first. While it wasn’t unprecedented, it was certainly rare. Other couples like Sarah Paulson and Holland Taylor, as well as Naomi Watts and Billy Crudup, were also nominated. However, Coon and Letts stood out due to their frequent collaborations on stage and screen, including projects like “The Sinner” and “The Post”.
Contrasting roles and timelines
The couple’s Emmy-nominated roles couldn’t be more different. “The Gilded Age” is set in the 1880s, while “Winning Time” explores the transformation of the L.A. Lakers a century later. The only common thread between the two shows is their home at HBO and director Salli Richardson-Whitfield, who worked on both projects. Coon humorously referred to Richardson-Whitfield as their “Kevin Bacon.”
The unexpected renewal of “The Gilded Age”
Coon’s nomination came as a pleasant surprise, especially since the cast of “The Gilded Age” had not anticipated a new season. The show had faced challenges, including a strike that left its future uncertain. However, the buzz and internet support led to its renewal, much to the delight of its stars.
Bertha Russell’s moral journey
In the show’s second season, Bertha Russell achieves social victory but at a moral cost. She secures her daughter’s future by promising her to a duke, a decision driven by her own ambition. Coon believes that Bertha feels justified in her actions, as she aims to provide her daughter with opportunities that were inaccessible to her.
The abrupt end of “Winning Time”
While “The Gilded Age” continues, “Winning Time” faced an abrupt end with the cancellation of the series after its second season finale. Letts played Jack McKinney, the L.A. Lakers head coach who introduced the high-energy style known as Showtime. Despite his limited screen time in Season 2, Letts’ portrayal left a lasting impact.
Shining a light on hidden history
Letts appreciated “Winning Time” for highlighting lesser-known aspects of basketball history. He enjoyed bringing attention to Jack McKinney, an early architect of modern basketball, and relished the opportunity to don his ’70s attire once more.
A coach’s role and a husband’s support
Coon praised her husband’s performance, noting that he excelled in his role as a coach, despite his aversion to handling a basketball. Letts humorously admitted that he made it clear he couldn’t handle a basketball without being exposed.
No crossover for Letts in “The Gilded Age”
Despite Coon’s requests, Letts has no plans to join her in “The Gilded Age”. He prefers to support her from the sidelines, enjoying the show and even singing its orchestral theme song in his unique way.
A shared journey and mutual admiration
The couple’s journey through their respective Emmy nominations is a testament to their talent, dedication, and mutual admiration. Their story is a reminder of the joy and fulfillment that comes from pursuing one’s passion and supporting loved ones along the way.
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