Whitley Gilbert was a selfish, self-involved, over-the-top Southern belle with a voice that could frighten cattle. She was also a masterful character sustained over six seasons, as Guy and the writers eventually guided Whitley into a wisdom and maturity that were just as fully realized as her spoiled hysterics ever were. If Megan Mullally could score seven straight nominations (and two wins) for Will & Grace's Karen Walker, then attention must be paid to Karen's rich-bitch predecessor — and the actress who created her.

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They were too busy nominating Jackee. The Emmy's haven't been too kind to black women. Hell black men too.

In theory, promoting Whitley to main female star in Season 2 after Denise (Lisa Bonet) departed shouldn't have worked. Whitley at least in Season 1, one-note and a bit grating. But the show actually got better once Bonet left and Debbie Allen helped retool the show. I think the chemistry between Whitley and Dwayne helped a lot too.