Molly McNearney Calls Out Perfection Pressure at the 50th Gracie Awards

At the 50th Annual Gracie Awards, held on May 20, 2025, at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel, Molly McNearney made a powerful statement while accepting her award for her work on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Her remarks addressed the intense pressure women often feel to conform to unrealistic beauty standards and the irrational insecurities that accompany it.

“I’m not saying this for sympathy. Jesus, do not give me sympathy,” McNearney urged the audience. “You might be feeling the same [insecurity] right now, and I need us to realize together — close your ears — it doesn’t fucking matter! It doesn’t matter. We’re all too hard on ourselves. We’re gonna take all this off in a couple hours, unless you’re married to Jimmy Kimmel.”

Her candid words resonated with many attendees, bringing attention to a critical conversation about self-acceptance in today’s image-focused society.

Celebration of Women’s Voices in Media

Hosted by comedian Fortune Feimster, the Gracie Awards celebrated women’s achievements in the media industry. Recognized by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation, this year’s winners included notable figures such as Cristin Milioti, Kathy Bates, and Megan Thee Stallion, as well as Variety, awarded for its “Power of Women” franchise.

In her acceptance speech, Stephanie Koenig, known for her roles in “The English Teacher” and as a writer for the FX hit show, emphasized the importance of support within the industry. “Thank you for opening the door. If you’re a dude and you have hiring power, open the door for women,” she stated, urging for greater inclusivity in media.

Addressing Current Issues

The evening took on a poignant tone as it also highlighted pressing societal issues, particularly reproductive freedom. McNearney utilized her platform to advocate for this vital cause, emphasizing that women’s rights and voices demand recognition and respect.

Cam, who performed “American Requiem” during the gala, reflected on the struggles of navigating the music industry as a Tennessee country artist. She advised attendees to, “Keep your sanity day-to-day, because I think it’s easy to lose that,” and encouraged everyone to maintain a personal connection to have a real impact on one another.

Importance of a Free Press

The Gracie Awards also celebrated journalists making significant contributions across various sectors. Norah O’Donnell, from CBS News, remarked on the essential role of a free press in democracy. “That’s why I got into the business — to be a truth teller,” she affirmed, discussing how the media’s credibility is crucial to informing the public.

As O’Donnell put it, “You need an informed electorate to have a functioning democracy… We need the media to be trusted.”

Conclusion: A Night of Empowerment

The 50th Annual Gracie Awards did more than celebrate individual achievements; it sparked crucial conversations about the pressures women face and the responsibilities of the media in today’s society. From McNearney’s heartfelt speech to discussions on fairness and representation, the event was a powerful reminder of the work still needed in the fields of media and women’s rights.

For more about Molly McNearney, her work on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, and events honoring women in the media, check out our posts on related topics like women’s advocacy in entertainment here, as well as our exploration of the Power of Women here.

The Gracie Awards remind us that while we acknowledge victories, the fight for equality and representation continues.

See more photos from the Gracie Awards below!