‘Severance’s Tramell Tillman Makes History As First Black Actor To Win Best Supporting Actor In A Drama Series

The Music Dance Experience is officially uncanceled, people! Why?! Because Tramell Tillman just won his first Emmy Award for his role as Seth Milchick in Apple TV+’s hit workplace thriller, Severance.

On top of the fact that this was Tillman’s first Emmy nomination, his Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series win was incredibly historic, as it marked the first time a Black actor was awarded in the category, as well as the first time the Emmys recognized an openly gay Black man for achievements as supporting actor in a drama.

“You remember what you want to remember. You make time for what you want to make time for. Do the work. Show up. And most importantly, for the love of God, don’t embarrass me in public. My first acting coach was tough, y’all, but all great mothers are,” Tillman told viewers, peers, and his mother in the audience. “Mama, you were there for me when no one else was and no one else would show up. Your loving kindness stays with me, and this is for you. Thank you to The Academy. I am full. I am humbled. I am honored, and as my mama would say, Oh, look at God.’ Thank you.”

Tillman was nominated alongside Severance co-stars Zach Cherry and John Turturro, as well as Walton Goggins (The White Lotus), Jason Isaacs (The White Lotus), Sam Rockwell (The White Lotus), and James Marsden (Paradise). 

As Decider noted in our Severance Season 2 review back in January, “Milchick was a scene-stealer in Severance’s first season, but Tillman is an absolute knock-out this time around. He wholeheartedly commits to excellence every second Seth is on screen, exhibiting invigorating humor, pizazz, rage, and wit, while desperately trying to make hell more heavenly.” In the drama’s sophomore season, Tillman unlocked new depths of his fan-favorite character, with standout scenes involving Lumon paintings, a Woe’s Hollow campfire, a haunting performance review, a cathartic confrontation with his superior, a marching band performance, and so many more.

We’re thrilled that Tillman finally received the recognition and flowers he deserves. Now please give him all the Lumon perks, melon balls, waffle parties, and his heart desires.

In addition to his win, Severance took home six creative arts Emmys ahead of Sunday’s ceremony and was the most-nominated series of 2025 with 27 nominees total. Tillman’s co-star Britt Lower also took home Best Actress in a Drama Series, so could we be in for a Severance sweep?! Stay tuned and be sure to follow the rest of Decider’s Emmys coverage.

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The 77the Emmy Awards premiere Sunday, September 14 on CBS with streaming on Paramount+.