Every year, the Emmy Awards have a special moment to remember stars and important people from TV and movies who passed away. This year, a singer named Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, sang his song “I Am Not Okay.” While he sang, pictures of the people who died showed on a big screen behind him.
Before he started singing, Jelly Roll spoke to the audience. He said, “I think music can help people feel better. I think it can heal. Telling stories through music can also help us feel lighter. I hope this song helps anyone who is sad about losing these amazing storytellers. If you’re feeling lonely or lost tonight, I want you to know it’s okay to not always feel okay.”
Some of the people remembered were Shannen Doherty from “Beverly Hills, 90210,” Richard Simmons, who taught people how to exercise, Gena Rowlands from “The Notebook,” and famous actors Donald Sutherland and James Earl Jones. They also honored Bob Newhart, a very funny comedian.
Before the show, Jelly Roll talked to reporters from PEOPLE and Entertainment Weekly on the red carpet. He was so excited! He said, “I watch all these shows on my tour bus and at home, and now I’m here. It’s so cool!” He even said he wants to be on a TV show someday so he can come to the Emmys every year. He joked that he’s going to tell his country music friends they need to be at the Emmys too.
Jelly Roll wasn’t the only country star there. Reba McEntire, a famous singer and actress, came with her friend Melissa Peterman to give out an award. They worked together on Reba’s old TV show and are now in a new show called “Happy’s Place.” They walked the red carpet together and gave the award for Outstanding Scripted Variety Series.
While talking to reporters, Reba and Melissa shared how they’ve been friends for many years. They’re excited to be on TV together again. Melissa said, “We have a special connection that people love to see. Our new show has new characters and a new story, but our friendship is still the same. We’ve waited a long time for the perfect show, and now it feels like the right time with the right people.”
