The political climate in the United States has reached a boiling point. Oppressive legislation, hate-based violent crimes, and more heinous acts on the rise. At the 2026 Tony Awards, the theater world refused to ignore this grim reality.
During the coveted ceremony, held at Radio City Music Hall on June 7, Qween Jean used her time on stage to advocate for the transgender community. Jean’s Best Costume Design for a Musical win (Cats: The Jellicle Ball) is one for the Tony Awards history book.
Not only did it make the designer’s first Tony win, but the victory also makes Jean the first openly trans person to win a Tony Award. Embracing the groundbreaking moment, Jean used her speech to fiercely support the LGBTQIA+ community.
“This experience has been monumental,” professed Jean. “We are here for the legacy of queer people, trans people. We are taking up space in ways we have to take up space. We have to shift the paradigm.
Jean continued, “So, I just want to say, thank you all so much for this incredible honor. The world right now is deeply combating so many ailments, and we know as a society that when we come together, we can make real permanent change.”
Earlier in her speech Jean praised her cast, which is comprised of dozens of queer people and is centered around the queer Ballroom scene.
“Thank you to the entire crew, cast, and my directors of Cats: The Jellicle Ball…Bill Rauch and Zhailon Levingston, I love you so much,” declared Jean. “Our incredible producers, Mike Bosner, I love you. Michael Harrison, thank you so much for the entire crew, our cast, the icon, André De Shields, thank you so much.”
Watch Qween Jean’s entire acceptance speech for Best Costume Design of a Musical at the 2026 Tony Awards below courtesy of CBS.
The 79th Tony Awards (2026 Tonys) were broadcast live on CBS. But the ceremony can be rewatched exclusively on Paramount+. Click here for more information.