The evolving landscape of Emmy drama series
The debate over whether shows like “The Bear” belong in the comedy race has perhaps overshadowed a more pressing question in the Emmy landscape: What’s happening with drama series? This year feels like a transitional period for the drama category, influenced by Hollywood strikes, the conclusion of several landmark series, and the lengthy production times for epic shows.
A year of transition
While the drama series category is not devoid of fantastic nominees, it does feel like a “bye” year. The absence of heavyweights like “Succession,” which concluded its run, and the hiatus of other major contenders such as “House of the Dragon,” “The Last of Us,” “The White Lotus,” “Andor,” and “Yellowjackets” has opened the door for newcomers and unexpected nominations.
Notable nominations and surprises
One of the most exciting additions to the drama category is FX’s “Shōgun,” which has breathed new life into the competition. The series, currently working on its second season, has become a significant player. Meanwhile, “The Crown” is back for its sixth and final season, positioning itself as a strong contender.
However, the absence of “Better Call Saul” is a notable disappointment. The show ended its run with a final best drama nomination in 2023 but went 0 for 53 in total Emmy tallies. In a more open race, it might have finally secured a win.
Fresh faces in the drama race
With a clean slate from last year’s drama nominations, several series have emerged as contenders. Apple TV+’s “The Morning Show” returned with its third season, featuring a storyline that sent one of its characters into space. HBO’s “The Gilded Age” secured a nomination in its second season, while “Slow Horses,” previously ignored, landed nine nods, including best drama and best actor for Gary Oldman.
“Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” starring Donald Glover and Maya Erskine, also managed to grab a nomination after a strong campaign. Surprisingly, two sci-fi shows, Amazon Prime Video’s “Fallout” and Netflix’s “3 Body Problem,” made it into the drama category, a genre not typically favored by Emmy voters.
The future of Emmy drama series
Does this year’s diverse lineup indicate a problem for the Emmy drama category? Not necessarily. All these shows deserve their nominations, even if they benefit from an unusual year. Expanding the drama and comedy fields to 10 slots could have allowed for even more inclusivity, potentially bringing back a broadcast show, something that hasn’t happened since “This Is Us” ended in 2021.
Looking ahead
This year’s Emmys offer a unique respite before what promises to be a competitive return next year. Expect the likes of “House of the Dragon,” “The Last of Us,” “Severance,” “Squid Game,” “The White Lotus,” and “Yellowjackets” to dominate the conversation. However, “Stranger Things” might not be back, as its young cast continues to age.
Some of this year’s nominees, like “The Crown,” will not return, and others, like “Shōgun,” will need more time for production. For those eyeing a repeat nomination, it’s time to step up your game. Perhaps “The Morning Show” will take us to Mars next season.
Explore more
For those interested in diving deeper into the nominated series, here are some direct links to trailers and information pages:
- Shōgun
- The Crown
- The Morning Show
- The Gilded Age
- Slow Horses
- Mr. & Mrs. Smith
- Fallout
- 3 Body Problem
This year’s Emmy drama series category may be in a state of flux, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of television. As we look forward to next year’s competition, it’s clear that the drama category will continue to surprise and captivate audiences.