Tony Hale on Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ Emmys Speech Plan

Tony Hale and Julia Louis-Dreyfus are not only known for their impressive Emmy wins but also for the memorable way they accepted those awards.

Planning a Legendary Acceptance Speech

During the Toronto International Film Festival, Tony Hale reminisced about the iconic 2013 Emmy Awards speech with Julia Louis-Dreyfus. The duo, in character from their show Veep, had planned a witty and entertaining acceptance if Louis-Dreyfus won. Hale recalled the nerves and excitement of that morning, knowing they had something special in store.

A Spontaneous Moment

Hale and Louis-Dreyfus had minimal preparation beyond discussing a few possible bits for their acceptance. Their trust in each other’s comedic timing and chemistry allowed them to embrace the spontaneity of the moment when Louis-Dreyfus’ name was called for the award.

An Unconventional Acceptance

Louis-Dreyfus’ immediate switch to character mode, prompting Hale to assist her, set the tone for an unconventional acceptance speech. Hale vividly recalled the mix of panic and excitement as he played along with her on-stage antics to the delight of the audience.

Tony Hale and Julia Louis-Dreyfus at the 2013 Emmys.

Michael Tran/FilmMagic

A Comic Masterpiece

The duo’s performance on stage immediately signaled to viewers that this acceptance speech would be far from ordinary. With Hale nervously supporting Louis-Dreyfus, the two navigated through a series of witty and comical interactions that left the audience in stitches.

Acknowledging the Team

Louis-Dreyfus’ speech, with Hale subtly guiding her, included heartfelt thanks to the network, creators, and producers. Their playful banter and comedic timing added a unique charm to the conventional list of acknowledgments, making it a memorable moment for all involved.

A Surprising Twist

The unexpected sight of cast member Anna Chlumsky casually texting during the speech added an extra layer of humor. While the moment seemed planned, Hale revealed it was Chlumsky improvising, adding an extra comedic element to an already hilarious acceptance speech.

Award-Winning Success

Veep’s tremendous success at the Primetime Emmys, coupled with Louis-Dreyfus’ unparalleled six-year winning streak, solidified its status as a standout series. The show’s ability to captivate audiences and resonate with viewers led to numerous accolades and critical acclaim.

Embracing the Character

Hale’s portrayal of Gary Walsh in Veep earned him two Emmy wins and showcased his dynamic on-screen partnership with Louis-Dreyfus. Despite comparisons to real-world political figures, the actors emphasized the fictional nature of their characters while acknowledging the show’s relevance in today’s climate.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus accepting a 2013 Emmy with Tony Hale.

Michael Tran/FilmMagic

Celebrating Success

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Inimitable Characters

Louis-Dreyfus clarified the distinction between her Veep character and real-life figures, emphasizing the comedic and exaggerated nature of her role. While the show draws parallels to current events, the actors highlighted the fictional aspects that set them apart from actual personalities.

Tony Hale at TIFF in 2024.

Ben Trivett/Shutterstock

Continued Success

Tony Hale’s current projects, including the film Sketch, showcase his versatility as an actor beyond his comedic roles. His collaboration with talented co-stars like D’Arcy Carden reflects his commitment to diverse and compelling storytelling.

With insights from Gerrad Hall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Tony Hale and Julia Louis-Dreyfus still working together?

While they are not currently collaborating on a project, both actors continue to pursue their respective careers in the entertainment industry.

What made the 2013 Emmy speech memorable?

The unconventional and comedic approach taken by Louis-Dreyfus and Hale, staying in character from Veep, set their acceptance speech apart from traditional award show moments.

Credit: ew.com