Gillian Anderson and Tobias Menzies take Drama Supporting Emmys

Gillian Anderson dedicated her Emmy Award win to her “best friend” and manager.

The 53-year-old actress took home the award for Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role as Margaret Thatcher in ‘The Crown’ and used her speech to pay tribute to Connie Freiberg for always being by her side and offering her support.

She said: “I want to say thank you to Peter Morgan for creating this role and to Netflix for everything.

“I really want to dedicate this award to a woman who was my manager for 20 years, Connie Freiberg. She believed in my like no one else would, believed I had talent when I didn’t think I had talent, always invited me to take the high road, she was one of the best friends I ever had in my life. she wore the same dress five years running to every awards show, three times a year, slow fashion before everyone knew it was cool. I love you, this is for you. Thank you.”

Gillian beat off competition from her co-stars Emerald Fennell and Helena Bonham Carter, ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ actresses Madeline Brewer, Ann Down, Samira Wiley and Yvonne Strahovski, and ‘Lovecraft Country’s Aunjanue Ellis to win the award.

Her co-star Tobias Menzies then scooped the Supporting Actor in a Drama Series honour, but wasn’t at the ceremony to accept the prize, so Kerry Washington – who was handing out the gong – pledged to take it on his behalf.

When she introduced the nominees – which also included Giancarlo Esposito for ‘The Mandelorian’, John Lithgow for ‘Perry Mason’, ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ stars O-T Fagbenie, Max Minghella and Bradley Whitford, and ‘This Is Us’ actor Chris Sullivan – she took time to pay tribute to the final shortlisted actor, ‘Lovecraft Country’ star Michael K. Williams, who passed away earlier this month.

Kerry said: “The nominees for this next award astounded us with each of their uniquely memorable, remarkable performances this year.

“But I would like to take a moment to mention one in particular Michael K Williams Michael was – it’s crazy to say was – Michael was a brilliantly talented actor and a generous human being who has left us far too soon.

“Michael, I know you are here, you wouldn’t miss this, your excellence and artistry will endure. We love you.”