Actor Stephen Graham has won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor for his role in the Netflix drama Adolescence.
The 52-year-old, who grew up in Kirkby, Merseyside, delivered an emotional acceptance speech, describing himself as “just a mixed-race kid from a block of flats” and saying recognition of this kind “doesn’t happen to a kid like me.”
Graham played Eddie Miller, the father of a teenager accused of killing a schoolmate. The series has been widely praised for its powerful performances and gripping storytelling.
In his speech, Graham thanked his family, paying particular tribute to his wife, actress Hannah Walters, whom he called his “rock” and “soulmate.” He also acknowledged his children, Grace and Alfie, as well as his late father, recalling childhood trips to a local video shop that sparked his love for film.
The actor said the award showed that “any dream is possible,” adding that he was humbled to be recognized by his peers.
Adolescence proved one of the night’s biggest winners, collecting six trophies in total. Among them was Outstanding Supporting Actor, awarded to Owen Cooper, 15, who became the youngest male performer ever to win an Emmy in that category.
Graham closed his speech with gratitude, saying: “Without my friends and family, none of this is possible… from the bottom of my heart, I love you with everything I have.”
