As all TV fans know, the Emmys are the time to see if your favourite series or actor has picked up a coveted nomination. In this year’s nominations lists, there have been snubs – Pachinko is just one example – and there are some clear frontrunners.

In an awards show that has previously faced public outcry about the lack of diversity, though, the 2022 nominations list is a pleasant step away from the majority white lists that the Emmys usually produces. And if there’s anything to take away from this year’s lists, it’s that Black women are finally being represented and honoured in a way that fans have been calling out for.

As well as standout shows, one person – and series – in particular has dominated much of the Emmys discussion. Quinta Brunson is not only the lead actor in hit Disney+ comedy series Abbott Elementary, but she is also showrunner, executive producer and creator of the series. It’s been the standout sitcom of the year, not least because it’s an ode to Black joy and is just downright hilarious.

Now, she has become the first Black woman to receive three comedy Emmy nominations. It’s a history-making moment, and she’s landed nominations for outstanding comedy series, lead actress in a comedy and writing for a comedy series (for the Pilot). This makes her the first Black woman to earn three nominations in the comedy categories in the same year, and at 32, Brunson is also the youngest Black woman ever nominated in the comedy acting category.

Emmys 2022: Quinta Brunson, Zendaya and Lizzo make history in this year’s nominations