Salli Richardson-Whitfield, celebrated for her successful transition from actress to producer and director, has earned her first Emmy nomination for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series. This nomination makes her the first Black woman to achieve such a milestone, marking a significant moment in the industry.
The nomination honors her work on the HBO series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, which was canceled before completing its run.
Before her directing success, Richardson-Whitfield was a prominent figure in 1990s film and television, with notable roles in Mo’ Money and A Low Down Dirty Shame, as well as appearances on The Jamie Foxx Show and ROC. She also lent her voice to the beloved animated series Gargoyles.
RELATED STORIES
Reflecting on her historic nomination, Richardson-Whitfield shared that the recognition came as a surprise, noting it as a personal achievement she hadn’t anticipated. “Completely blindsided! I was on set, and I was actually more focused on The Gilded Age because HBO had been pushing that show,” she told ESSENCE.
“When The Gilded Age got a nod, I thought, ‘Great, I get to go to the party.’ But nothing in my wildest dreams said Winning Time was going to get several nominations, let alone one for me as a directing nominee. So, I’m very, very surprised.”
The cancellation of Winning Time made the recognition even more unexpected. “Out of any show I’ve done so far in my career, I was really happy that it was that show and that particular episode because it was one that I was very proud of,” Richardson-Whitfield added.
Despite the intense competition in her category, Richardson-Whitfield is thrilled about her Emmy debut and sees it as a stepping stone for even greater achievements.
“Well, I have never been to the Emmys! So, I’m super excited. I thought, ‘Okay, I produced this show, at least I get to go.’ The fact that it’s my first time and I’m nominated for two Emmys is going to make the party much better. Win or lose, at least I’m there,” she said.
Looking ahead, Richardson-Whitfield is already preparing for her next project, directing Task, an upcoming HBO crime drama starring Mark Ruffalo, further solidifying her growing reputation as a director in the industry.
