Michelle Williams, celebrated for her role as Gwen Verdon in FX’s “Fosse/Verdon” (2019), is on a new quest to win her second Emmy in the Best Limited/Movie Actress category. This time, the talented actress is captivating audiences with her portrayal of Molly Kochan in FX’s “Dying for Sex.” Williams, whose past Emmy victory showcased her exceptional talent, now aims to join the elite group of actresses who have claimed double wins in this prestigious category.
Williams breathes life into the character of Molly Kochan, portraying a terminal cancer patient whose unexpected, humorous, and sometimes poignant journey through sexual exploration forms the core of the narrative. The series is based on Kochan’s real-life podcast, co-hosted with Nikki Boyer, which delves into themes of desire, friendship, and mortality. It is this depth and complexity that sets “Dying for Sex” apart and could pave Williams’ way to another Emmy triumph.
In this highly competitive race, Williams faces formidable contenders. At the forefront is Cristin Milioti for her role in “The Penguin,” who already has a Critics Choice Award under her belt for her performance. Other potential nominees include esteemed talents such as Cate Blanchett for “Disclaimer,” Renée Zellweger in “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy,” and Kaitlyn Dever in “Apple Cider Vinegar.”
The last actress to achieve dual victories in the Best Limited/Movie Actress Emmy category was Kate Winslet. Her wins with roles in “Mildred Pierce” (2011) and “Mare of Easttown” (2021) spanned over a decade, whereas Williams aims to achieve this accolade in just six years. Succeeding would not only cement Williams’ status but also highlight her unbroken track record in this category.
Reflecting on her role in “Dying for Sex,” Williams shared her immediate attraction to the script. She admitted, “I don’t often have strong emotional responses anymore to things. I’m in a happy, stable place in my life. The podcast just gutted me.” Her profound connection to the material underscores her passion for portraying complex narratives.
During her 2019 Emmy acceptance speech, Williams highlighted the significance of workplace equity, particularly acknowledging FX for recognizing her value alongside her co-star Sam Rockwell. She urged for continued support and belief in women, especially women of color, within the industry.
Should Williams succeed in her Emmy pursuit, she will join a distinguished lineage of multiple-category winners, such as Helen Mirren, Jessica Lange, and Meryl Streep. The anticipation is mounting as the Emmy nominations approach on July 15, with winners slated to be announced on September 14.
The Emmy race not only acknowledges individual achievements but also reflects broader industry shifts. Williams’ potential win would signify strides towards more diverse and powerful female roles, highlighting the importance of stories that resonate on both personal and universal levels. As she journeys towards potential Emmy glory, Michelle Williams’ performance remains a beacon of talent, dedication, and storytelling mastery.
