And so, the 2024 Emmy Awards had to be one for the books: stunning, surprising, full of heart. Comedian candies came courtesy of the charming father-and-son duo hosts, Eugene and Dan Levy, at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theatre as a night celebrating the very best in television performances and productions that have risen above the rest over this past year.
The Big Winners
The biggest winners of the evening were “Shōgun” and “Hacks.” “Shōgun”, nominated for 25 awards in total, took several big ones: Best Drama Series. Its Best Actor and Best Actress in a Drama Series were Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai. It also set a record with 18 Emmys for one season.
Among the comedies, there was a winner of “Hacks” for Best Comedy Series. The lead actors and writing won awards, again proving that it was a clear winner among comedies.
Outstanding Drama Series
The competition was indeed furious, with the other nominees being “The Crown,” “Fallout,” “The Gilded Age,” “The Morning Show,” “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” “Slow Horses,” and “3 Body Problem.” Still, the lion’s share fell to “Shōgun.” The show’s gripping storyline, coupled with great performances, charmed viewers and critics alike.
Outstanding Comedy Series
The competition was tight in the comedy genre with representative shows like “Abbott Elementary,” “The Bear,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “Only Murders in the Building,” “Palm Royale,” “Reservation Dogs,” and “What We Do in the Shadows.” Still, “Hacks” took center stage with remarkable writing and acting performances in the category of Best Comedy Series.
Notable Acting Wins
The stars of the night in the drama category were Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai. Sanada won Best Actor in a Drama Series with his exquisite performance of an extremely complex character in “Shōgun”. Sawai was just as brilliant in the same show, winning Best Actress in a Drama Series.
For comedy, Best Lead Actor went to Jeremy Allen White from “The Bear,” and Best Lead Actress went to Jean Smart from “Hacks.” Both were poignant yet hilarious performances, and each was a deserved winner.
Supporting Roles Shine
The supporting actors did not miss their moment in the spotlight. Ebon Moss-Bachrach of “The Bear” won Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, while Billy Crudup of “The Morning Show” took Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. Their performances gave depth and nuance to their respective shows.
Creative Arts Emmys
Shōgun” also dominated the week-earlier Creative Arts Emmys, with 14 wins. The Creative Arts Emmys are awards given for technical achievement and behind-the-scenes talent-highlighting just how much work goes into making a successful TV show.
A Night of Memorable Moments
It wasn’t all about the winners at the 2024 Emmy Awards. From an emotional acceptance speech to a surprise victory, these were the moments dotted through the night: Host Levys brought humor and heartiness to this event, making it fun for every viewer watching.
Of course, it is great to celebrate what we’ve accomplished during this past year, but even more exciting is to look ahead to the future of television. With so many talented actors, writers, and creators pushing the bounds of storytelling, the future of TV looks bright.
The 2024 Emmy Awards were one of those nights when incredible talent and creativity shone in the world of television. From historic wins by “Shōgun” to the comic genius of “Hacks,” they celebrated truly the best of the best. As we look forward to another year of amazing TV, we can’t wait to see what new stories and performances capture our hearts next.