SAG Awards 2016: Idris Elba, Viola Davis, Uzo Aduba and Queen Latifah Among Winners

The 22nd annual Screen Actors Guild Awards took place Saturday night – honoring the brightest stars in film and television.

The awards circuit has been dominated by the effects of #OscarsSoWhite ever since the nominations that were announced a couple of weeks ago – revealed a roster of all-white nominees.

Idris Elba

Most had hoped that movies like Beasts of No Nation, Straight Outta Compton and Creed would yield options to populate the main categories but the Academy didn’t live up to expectations and instead shed an even brighter light on the “diversity problem” that continues to plague the industry.

But as the Academy continues to work overtime to convince naysayers that they can recognize talent regardless of race or creed, the Screen Actors Guild proved that they are light years ahead as they rewarded practically every actor and actress of color – including Idris Elba who won twice – for his roles in Beasts of No Nation and the gritty TV series, Luther.

Uzo Aduba

Uzo Aduba took another one home for her consistently stellar performance in Netflix’x gem – Orange is the New Black, Viola Davis was awarded best female actor in a drama series for her steady portrayal of Annalise Keating in ABC’s How To Get Away with Murder and Queen Latifah won for her gutsy performance in HBO’s biopic, Bessie.

Viola Davis

Expectedly the acceptance speeches from the winners evoked the spirit of the night as references to the D-word set the tone of the televised ceremony.

Another big winner was actor Leonardo DiCaprio who won best actor for his role in The Revenant – proving once again that he will finally win his first Academy Award after years of being stuck as the diplomatic nominee.

Orange is the New Black won best best TV comedy series ensemble, Downton Abbey won best ensemble in a drama series and in the film category – Spotlight was awarded the Actor for outstanding performance by a cast in a motion picture.

For a complete list of winners – click here.