Emma D'Arcy says their Golden Globe nomination "implies the space for trans people and gender non-conforming people is getting bigger".
D'Arcy, who is nominated for best television actress at the 80th annual ceremony, said being at the 80th annual ceremony was "surreal" but that they felt very "privileged".
Hollywood stars from the big and small screens flocked back to the Beverley Hilton hotel in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening for the occasion.
Last year's show was turned into a "private event" at the last minute by organisers the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA), after it faced heavy criticism over its lack of black members.
The organisation subsequently vowed to overhaul its bylaws and implement changes addressing ethics and inclusion.
30-year-old London-born D'Arcy has earned their first Golden Globe nomination for best television actress - Drama Series for their portrayal of Rhaenyra Targaryen in the HBO hit series House Of The Dragon.
"I mean, it's kind of a surreal thing, right?" they said, speaking to E! on the event's red carpet.
"Because when I was starting out, I really felt that I had to pretend to present as a woman in order to find success in this industry... it wasn't sustainable, and I stopped pretending.
"Weirdly, it's at that point that I got nominated for that dress at the Golden Globes, which is like beautifully ironic."
They continued: "I think the most important thing is that for me, it implies the space for trans people and gender non-conforming people is getting bigger.
"So, I feel, like, very privileged."
The 80th annual ceremony is hosted by US comedian Jerrod Carmichael.
Blockbuster films Avatar: The Way Of Water and Top Gun: Maverick lead the category for best motion picture: drama, alongside Elvis, The Fabelmans and Tar.
Titles nominated for best motion picture: musical or comedy include The Banshees Of Inisherin, Everything Everywhere All At Once, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery and Triangle Of Sadness.
Brendan Gleeson is nominated for the Golden Globe for best supporting actor in a motion picture for his performance in Martin McDonagh's film.
Last year, following the criticism of the HFPA, the awards were announced via periodic updates from the Golden Globes website and official social media accounts, after US network NBC refused to air the show.
Source: Press Association
