Despite receiving strong reviews for its cast, "The Normal Heart" took home only one Primetime Emmy, for Outstanding Television Movie. Nominees Mark Ruffalo, Jim Parsons, Julia Roberts, Joe Mantello, Alfred Molina and Matt Bomer as well as playwright Larry Kramer and director Ryan Murphy did not win in their respective categories.
Murphy, who directed the screen adaptation of Kramer's landmark play about the dawn of the AIDS crisis in New York City, accepted the honor, and delivered a speech on behalf of of the cast and creative team.
Kramer, donning an "Act Up" baseball cap, joined Murphy on stage.