Viola Davis Achieves Coveted EGOT Status at 2023 Grammys with “Finding Me” Win
In a truly historic moment for Hollywood and a testament to an unparalleled career, the incomparable Viola Davis officially joined the exclusive ranks of EGOT winners at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards. The acclaimed actress, known for her powerful performances and profound presence, received the prestigious award for Best Audio Book Narration, And Storytelling Recording for her deeply personal memoir, Finding Me. The win, announced during the preshow ceremony on Sunday, February 5, 2023, marked the culmination of a remarkable journey that has seen Davis collect an Emmy, an Oscar, and a Tony Award.
The atmosphere at the Grammy Awards was charged with excitement, but for Davis, the moment she stepped onto the stage was one of pure jubilation and profound gratitude. Adorned in a breathtaking Naeem Khan gown, she radiated elegance and strength. The dress itself was a vibrant spectacle, featuring sparkling red, silver, and blue panels artfully divided by sleek black lines, perfectly complemented by delicate circular earrings. It was a visual representation of the celebratory spirit surrounding her momentous achievement.
As she accepted the coveted golden gramophone, Davis’s voice, often a conduit for complex characters, quivered with genuine emotion. “It has been such a journey. I just EGOT!” she declared, her excitement palpable and infectious. This brief, yet immensely powerful statement encapsulated years of dedication, sacrifice, and relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. Later, a tweet shared her heartfelt sentiment from her speech: “I wrote this book to honor the 6-year-old Viola.” This poignant dedication underscored the memoir’s deep personal resonance and its role in her extraordinary life story.
For those who want to see Viola Davis’s #Grammys speech:
“I wrote this book to honor the 6-year-old Viola” pic.twitter.com/Mlp6loEKYo
— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) February 5, 2023
The Significance of an EGOT: A Rare Mark of Excellence
The term EGOT stands for Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards—the four major American entertainment awards. Achieving this Grand Slam of show business is an exceptionally rare feat, signifying unparalleled success across television, music/audio, film, and live theater. Only a select group of artists in history have managed to earn all four, placing them in an echelon of their own. Prior to Davis, only 17 individuals had achieved this distinction, making her the 18th EGOT winner. This exclusive club includes legends like Whoopi Goldberg, Audrey Hepburn, John Legend, Rita Moreno, and Mel Brooks (who was also nominated in the same Grammy category as Davis, highlighting the high caliber of competition).
Viola Davis’s path to EGOT status is a testament to her diverse talents and unwavering commitment to her craft. Her journey began with a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for King Hedley II in 2001, followed by a second Tony for Best Actress in a Play for Fences in 2010. In 2015, she made history as the first Black woman to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her iconic role as Annalise Keating in How to Get Away with Murder. The crowning cinematic achievement came in 2017 with an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her poignant portrayal of Rose Maxson in the film adaptation of Fences, reprising her Tony-winning stage role. Her recent Grammy win for Finding Me seamlessly completes this illustrious quartet, solidifying her legacy as one of the most decorated and versatile performers of our time.
“Finding Me”: A Memoir That Resonates
Davis’s Grammy-winning work, Finding Me, is more than just an audiobook; it is a raw, honest, and profoundly moving account of her life, from her challenging upbringing in poverty to her rise as a global superstar. The memoir delves into themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of embracing one’s true identity. When narrated by Davis herself, the audiobook transforms into an even more intimate and impactful experience. Her distinctive voice, imbued with emotional depth and an innate ability to convey vulnerability and strength, brings her words to life in a way that resonates deeply with listeners. The critics and public alike lauded the audiobook for its captivating narration, making it a natural contender for the Grammy.
The Recording Academy interview prior to her win revealed Davis’s humble perspective on the nomination. She expressed genuine surprise, stating, “When I wrote the book, I was just trying to write a good book. That was the goal. Everything else that came out of it has been the icing on the cake, those beautiful sort of boons and gifts that come when you put yourself out there. ‘Cause they don’t always come. The GRAMMY nomination and how the book has done have been truly a gift that I didn’t expect.” This candidness further endeared her to fans and highlighted her authentic approach to her artistry.
A Year of Triumphs (and a Notable Snub)
Viola Davis’s Grammy win caps an extraordinary period in her career, marked by a string of high-profile projects that showcased her incredible range. Just a month before the Grammys, she graced the 80th Annual Golden Globe Awards, nominated for Best Actress in a Drama for her commanding performance as General Nanisca in the critically acclaimed epic, The Woman King. While she ultimately lost to Cate Blanchett for her role in Tár, Davis still captivated on the red carpet in a stunning bright blue gown, embodying grace and power.
Despite the critical praise for The Woman King and her performance, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences notably overlooked Davis for an Oscar nomination in 2023, a decision that sparked considerable debate and disappointment among critics and audiences who felt her portrayal deserved recognition. Many viewed this as a significant snub, especially given the film’s cultural impact and the intensity of her performance. Nevertheless, the film itself garnered a strong following and highlighted Davis’s ability to lead a major historical action-drama.
Beyond her acclaimed work in film, Davis also expanded her presence within the DC Extended Universe, reprising her formidable role as Amanda Waller, the enigmatic government official, in the HBO Max series Peacemaker and making a memorable appearance in the blockbuster film Black Adam. Her portrayal of Waller has consistently been praised for its steely resolve and complex villainy, adding another dimension to her diverse resume.
On the television front, she took on the monumental task of portraying former First Lady Michelle Obama in the Showtime series The First Lady. This role required immense research and a delicate balance of capturing the essence of a living icon without resorting to caricature. Her nuanced performance, exploring the challenges and triumphs of one of the world’s most admired women, further demonstrated her versatility and commitment to embodying diverse and impactful characters.
An Inspiration and a Legacy
Viola Davis’s EGOT achievement is not merely a personal triumph; it’s a profound source of inspiration. Her story, as chronicled in Finding Me and reflected in her acceptance speech, speaks to the power of perseverance against adversity. She has consistently championed diverse narratives and opened doors for future generations of actors of color. Her success sends a powerful message about the importance of authenticity, hard work, and believing in one’s own voice, no matter the obstacles.
The congratulations poured in from across the industry and around the globe. Grammy winner Taylor Swift was among those who enthusiastically celebrated Davis’s milestone, sharing the Recording Academy’s tweet with the exuberant message: “EGOT BABYYYYYYY,” accompanied by a flurry of heart emojis. This widespread recognition underscores not only the significance of the EGOT title but also the immense respect and admiration Davis commands within the entertainment world.
In earning her EGOT, Viola Davis has not just added another trophy to her shelf; she has carved an even deeper niche in entertainment history. Her journey is a beacon for artists everywhere, a reminder that talent, tenacity, and truth ultimately pave the way to legendary status. Her voice, whether through a memoir, a dramatic performance, or a powerful acceptance speech, continues to resonate, inspiring millions and leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.