Ali Wong Becomes First Asian Woman to Win an Emmy for a Lead Role

has made history. The comedian continued ’s sweep with television’s highest honor, winning the for best actress in a limited series. The win makes Wong the first woman of Asian descent ever to win an Emmy for a lead role. Sandra Oh has been nominated three times in the drama series category, and the haul of nominations for 1981’s Japan set limited series included one for leading lady Yôko Shimada.

In addition to her collaborators and team, Wong also thanked her family in her acceptance speech. “I wouldn’t be standing here without my parents, my amazing parents, my father who I so wish was alive to share this moment with me, my hilarious father who loved me unconditionally and taught me the value of failure,” she said onstage.

“To my beautiful daughters: you are my everything. Thank you for inspiring me, and this is for you.” Wong received her first Emmy nomination last year, for writing her third comedy special, . Her three Emmy nominations this year include another one for as executive producer as well as best voiceover acting for her animated comedy (that win went to Maya Rudolph for ).

In her on the eve of ’s premiere a year ago, Wong reflected on taking on the first dramatic lead role of her career (she previously starred in the rom com feature and had a number of supporting acting credits, mostly in comedic live action or animated projects). Although is a dark comedy, the role of Amy Lau, a high strung entrepreneur whose life unravels after a road rage incident, required Wong to plumb depths of vulnerability, loathing, darkness and tenderness.

Her fearless performance also has earned her (in another historic first) as well as the Gotham and awards, with the Independent Spirit and Screen Actors Guild awards still pending. THR Newsletters Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day More from The Hollywood Reporter.