Neil Phillips who was recently appointed Chief Diversity Officer of The Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) spoke in regards to the recent backlash, commenting, "This is a necessary phase of progress, realising meaningful and lasting transformation. Action and change require action and being."
Rodriguez made headlines mid last year after being nominated for an Emmy – the nod found her becoming one of only three transgender people to be nominated in the award show's history.
However, the actress lost to Olivia Colman - for her portrayal as Queen Elizabeth in The Crown, and fans were quick to call out the Emmy's snub. Comedian and film-maker Sampson McCormick took to Twitter to share his thoughts, "No matter what the 'industry voters' say— MJ Rodriguez is a winner in our eyes and is doing an incredible job amplifying trans voices on television and in media."
Only minutes after the stars Golden Globe win fans took to Twitter to share their excitement.