This awards season will undoubtedly go down as one of the most memorable ever, and that’s largely in part to the brilliant Jennifer Coolidge, who has been enjoying one of the most wholesome and well deserved sweeps in history.
The actress killed it with her critically-acclaimed role as Tanya McQuoid in the second season of the HBO comedy-drama The White Lotus, and has so far picked up a Golden Globe and Critics Choice Award for her performance this year.
After last night’s win at the Critics Choice Awards, Coolidge spoke exclusively to Entertainment Tonight, calling her sweep the “surprise of a lifetime!” The actress has continuously showered praise on creator and writer Mike White for granting her the opportunity to star in the project, and aiding her return to the limelight.
“I feel so alive, you know? You go through your life, and you sort of just assume you’re used to going a certain way and you just take on whatever that baggage is and that it’s never going to change.”
As the supporting award categories were simultaneously announced, the actress picked up her award alongside Giancarlo Esposito, who won for his role in Better Call Saul. Coolidge’s speeches have also become a favorite among many fans, especially on social media, who find her mix of shock and gratitude especially endearing. She has also continued to express her gratitude and share that her wins are a sign that nobody should give up.
“I know you’ve heard a lot from me in the last month or two, but I just want to say this is such an honor. This is really kind of as good as it gets. The critics, not from just the west coast and the east coast but all over the country. I just want to say thank you. It’s not over til it’s over, it’s not over til you’re dead.”
Coolidge admitted that she often watches these awards shows at home, and suddenly her life has changed overnight. While fans had to say goodbye to her character in season two, this definitely sparks renewed interest in the incredible actress. She famously picked up the Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 2022 for her work in the first season, and she remains a favorite for the 2023 ceremony as well, with nominations out July 12.