Jelly Roll's In Memoriam performance at the 2024 Emmys leaves fans divided

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Jelly Roll's emotional In Memoriam performance at the 2024 Emmy Awards sparked a wave of mixed reactions from fans and critics alike.

The 39-year-old rapper took to the stage at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, September 15, delivering a poignant rendition of 'I Am Not Okay', a song that delves into mental health struggles and emotional turmoil.

Jelly Roll delivers emotional tribute with 'I Am Not Okay' at 2024 Emmys

The performance, intended as a tribute to the year's lost 'storytellers', featured Jelly Roll backed by string musicians and introduced with a heartfelt message.

"I believe that music is therapeutic. I believe that music can heal. I also believe that storytelling is just as cathartic. I hope this song can act as a healing moment for those who are mourning the storytellers we have lost this year," he said. The musician wore an all-black outfit and accessorized with a cross-chain around his neck for the segment.

"If you are feeling lost or alone tonight then I want you to know that it's okay to not always be okay." He aimed to offer solace to those grieving the loss of industry figures, including actors Ryan O'Neal, presenter Phil Donoghue, and veteran comedian Bob Newhart, whose images were displayed as he sang.

Insight into Emmy Awards 2024

In contrast, the Emmy Awards ceremony itself saw notable victories and surprises. HBO's 'Hacks' emerged as a major winner, taking the top comedy honor despite fierce competition from shows like 'The Bear'. 'The Bear' still had a strong showing, with Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Liza Colon-Zayas receiving accolades for their performances.

The 33-year-old Brooklyn native Jeremy secured the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series award for the second consecutive year. Simultaneously, 47-year-old New York native Ebon, known for his role as Richie Jerimovich on the FX series, also repeated his success by winning Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for the second time.

The accolades continued for the critically acclaimed series as Liza Colon-Zayas claimed the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. In the drama categories, Elizabeth Debicki was recognized for her role as Princess Diana in 'The Crown', while the limited series 'Baby Reindeer' emerged as a major winner, securing four major awards.

This included Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series and additional accolades for Richard Gadd and Jessica Gunning, with Gadd earning two awards for his performance.

Netizens divided by Jelly Roll's In Memoriam tribute

Despite Jelly Roll's touching intention, not everyone was on board with his selection for the tribute. 

"I love JellyRoll but this is an odd song choice for an in memoriam. #emmys," tweeted a user.

"I’m not a fan of country music, but Jelly Roll’s song for the memoriam at the Emmys was beautifully done. #Emmys," one user said.

"It didn't quite fit," opined someone else.

"Think they forgot about Matthew Perry? How do you forget about Chandler Bing?" questioned a user.

"I lost my mom in June and I didn't even once until I listened to this. I just love him he's got something really special," read a tweet. 

"I don’t mean disrespect to Jelly Roll (which already feels ironic) but choosing to sing a song about depression, suicidal thoughts and hanging on is a curious choice for the “in memoriam” section of The Emmys. Did I miss something with the way these folks passed? #Emmys #odd," penned a user.

"The most downer song for a sad part of the show. not a good choice IMO," said a user.

“It’s okay to not be okay.” Thank you, Jelly Roll. #Emmy #Emmys," commented a user.

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