Los Angeles, CA – Christina Applegate received a standing ovation at the 2024 Emmys as she took the stage to present the first award of the night. The actress, known for her role in “Dead to Me,” was also a nominee at the ceremony, adding to the significance of the moment.
Host Anthony Anderson kicked off the evening with an opening monologue, before introducing Applegate as the presenter for the Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series award. Anderson highlighted Applegate’s long career in the entertainment industry, mentioning that she has been acting since she was just one year old.
As Applegate made her way to the microphone, the audience rose to their feet in a show of admiration. While the reason for the standing ovation was not explicitly stated, it might be attributed to Applegate’s courageous battle with multiple sclerosis, which she was diagnosed with in 2021.
Touched by the response, a tearful Applegate expressed her gratitude to the audience, saying, “Thank you so much. Oh my god, you’re totally shaming me [and my] disability by standing up. It’s fine. OK. Body not by Ozempic. OK let’s go.” Despite her emotions, Applegate maintained her composure and went on to present the award.
During her time on stage, Applegate reflected on her career, mentioning her iconic roles in shows like “Married… with Children,” “Samantha Who?,” and of course, “Dead to Me.” She humorously quipped, “We don’t have to applaud every time I do something,” while referring to her role on “Married… with Children.” Applegate also mentioned her debut role as a baby on “Days of Our Lives,” calling it her “breakout role.”
Applegate then revealed Ayo Edebiri as the winner of the award for her work on “The Bear,” and the two shared an embrace on stage. The moment was a powerful testament to the supportive and inclusive nature of the entertainment industry.
Throughout her journey, Applegate has been open about her diagnosis and how it has affected her work. In an interview with the New York Times in 2022, she discussed the five-month shutdown of “Dead to Me” following her diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of taking time to process the changes in her life.
The standing ovation Applegate received at the 2024 Emmys serves as a celebration of her talent and resilience in the face of adversity. It is a testament to her impact on the entertainment industry and the admiration she has garnered from her peers and audiences alike.