After a dazzling Red Carpet display, guests and nominees of the Golden Globes sat down at their tables to enjoy the show. As the night’s first winner was announced—Da’Vine Joy Randolph for Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture—audience members were reminded of the power of this annual celebration of excellence in film and television.

Once Randolph reached center stage to accept her award, she brought out a small, hand-written, folded-up note. She proceeded to express a thoughtfully pre-meditated thanks to her collaborators and supporters, inspiring audiences in person and watching from afar with her win.

Over the years, Golden Globes winners have given speeches in various styles, intentions, and thanks. A particularly unique and touching array of speeches graced the stage this year.

This evening, when Ayo Edebiri won her first Golden Globe as an Actress in a Musical or Comedy TV Series for her work on The Bear, we were endeared by her authentic reaction and from-the-heart speech. Edebiri first expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to be a working artist and thanked her “family, family, family,” gesturing to her collaborators on The Bear. Her exuberance reminded us of what the Globes celebrate and acknowledge—excellence in filmmakers’ teamwork and artistic collaboration. Edebiri also thanked an often-overlooked hero of the industry: her managers and agents’ assistants! This call-out won great applause. She thanked her “actual family” for their support, as well, in a humorous moment that showcased some of the authentic quality of her star power.

Later on, Kieran Culkin, previously nominated four times, finally won for his role in Succession, an Actor in a Drama TV Series. In his speech, he highlighted how meaningful reaching this point was.

In Emma Stone’s speech for her win as Actress in a Musical or Comedy Motion Picture for her work in Poor Things, she discussed how her work on the film changed her perspective on her life. Her speech highlighted her thanks for the experience of making the film and how it also changed her philosophy. She utilized her moment on the Golden Globes platform to say something about how art changes people—both as creators and viewers.

In an evening of countless memorable moments, there are equally as many unique winners’ speeches—concise opportunities for the artists to speak for themselves and their work.

The 81st Golden Globe Awards took place on Jan. 7 at the Beverly Hilton, its home since 1961. The three-hour ceremony aired live on CBS and streamed on Paramount+.