Stephen Graham signs off with 'Namaste' after Emmy win for 'Adolescence'

Stephen Graham made a memorable mark at the 2025 Primetime Emmy Awards, winning Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series for his role in Netflix’s 'Adolescence'. But it wasn’t just the trophy that had audiences talking—Graham’s heartfelt sign-off, “Namaste,” captured the attention of Indian viewers.

In his acceptance speech, Graham reflected on his journey from Kirkby, a small town in Northern England, to the Emmy stage. “I’m just a mixed-race kid from a block of flats,” he said. “To be recognised by my peers like this is beyond anything I could have imagined. It shows that any dream is possible.”

The actor paid tribute to his wife, children Grace and Alfie, and his father, who sparked his love for film by taking him to a video shop as a child. He also thanked his colleagues and collaborators Thorne and Philip Barantini, both of whom also took home awards that evening.

In 'Adolescence', Graham plays Eddie Miller, the father of a 13-year-old boy accused of a shocking crime. The series captures the family’s bewilderment and emotional turmoil as their lives are upended in an instant. Graham’s performance has been widely praised for its depth, portraying a man grappling with unimaginable circumstances with authenticity and heart.