Emmy week kicks off with record-breaking wins for ‘Shōgun’
A historic start for ‘Shōgun’
Welcome to Emmy week! The excitement is already palpable as FX’s Shōgun has set a new benchmark even before the Primetime Emmys ceremony. With an impressive 14 wins during the Creative Arts Emmys weekend, Shōgun has become the most-honored program in a single year, surpassing previous record-holders like John Adams and Game of Thrones. And the big awards are yet to come this weekend, where Shōgun is poised to add even more accolades to its tally.
FX’s winning streak
FX has more reasons to celebrate. They are on track to break The Bear‘s record for the most wins by a comedy in a single year. Last year, The Bear secured 10 wins, and this year, it already has 7. With several nominations still pending, surpassing that record seems very likely. This could make FX the network champion of the year, a title that has been dominated by HBO or Netflix for years.
Emmy parties are back
This weekend promises to be bustling with events as Emmy parties make a grand return. Last year’s Emmys, delayed to January due to Hollywood strikes, were a subdued affair. This year, despite ongoing industry challenges like DirecTV’s standoff with Disney, the celebrations are expected to be lively. Satellite customers might miss the live broadcast unless they have an antenna, but the toasting and festivities will go on.
Notable wins and milestones
Sandra Oh’s first Emmy win
Among the standout moments at the Creative Arts Emmys, Sandra Oh finally clinched her first Emmy for co-producing Quiz Lady. After 14 nominations, she has become the most nominated person of Asian descent at the Emmys without a win until now.
Maya Rudolph’s record-tying win
Maya Rudolph won again for her outstanding character voice-over performance in Big Mouth, tying the overall record and becoming the first woman to win the category four times.
Oscars’ first win for variety special
This year also marked the Oscars’ first-ever win for outstanding variety special (live) and the most wins ever (four) in a single year.
Potential record-breakers
Robert Downey Jr.
Robert Downey Jr. could make history by becoming the first actor to win an Oscar, Daytime Emmy, and Primetime Emmy in the same year. He has already won the supporting actor Oscar for Oppenheimer and a Daytime Emmy for Downey’s Dream Cars. A win for The Sympathizer could complete the trifecta.
Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live has extended its record as the most awarded TV program in Emmy history, with 101 wins so far. It is nominated for two more Primetime Emmys, potentially extending this record further.
The Bear
The Bear could break its own record for the most Primetime Emmys won by a comedy series in a single year. It has already won 7 Creative Arts Primetime Emmys and is nominated for 9 more.
RuPaul’s Drag Race
RuPaul’s Drag Race could extend its record as the most awarded reality program in Emmy history. A win in the outstanding reality competition category would mark its 30th win.
Curb Your Enthusiasm
Curb Your Enthusiasm could extend its record for the most nominated comedy series in the outstanding comedy series category without a win. It has been nominated 11 times but has never won.
Quinta Brunson
Quinta Brunson from Abbott Elementary could become the first Black actress to win the outstanding lead actress in a comedy series category twice. If she, Ayo Edebiri from The Bear, or Maya Rudolph from Loot win, it would be the first time Black actresses win in the category for two consecutive years.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez from Only Murders In The Building could become only the second Latina actress to win in the outstanding lead actress in a comedy series category, joining America Ferrera.
Larry David, Steve Martin, and Martin Short
Larry David from Curb Your Enthusiasm, Steve Martin, or Martin Short from Only Murders In The Building could break Eugene Levy’s record for the oldest actor to win the Emmy for lead actor in a comedy series.
D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai
D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai from Reservation Dogs could break Michael J. Fox’s record for the youngest actor to win the Emmy for lead actor in a comedy series. He could also become the first Indigenous actor to win in the lead actor in a comedy series category.
Carol Burnett
Carol Burnett from Palm Royale could become the oldest actress to win in the outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series category, making her the oldest winner of any acting category at the Primetime Emmys.
Liza Colón-Zayas
Liza Colón-Zayas from The Bear could become the first Latina actress to win in the outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series category.
Tyler Jesse Williams and Lionel Boyce
Tyler Jesse Williams from Abbott Elementary or Lionel Boyce from The Bear could become only the second Black actors to win in the outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series category.
Bowen Yang
Bowen Yang from SNL could become the first Asian American actor to win in the outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series category.
Anna Sawai and Maya Erskine
Anna Sawai from Shōgun or Maya Erskine from Mr. & Mrs. Smith could become the first actress of Asian descent to win in the outstanding lead actress in a drama series category.
Jennifer Aniston
Jennifer Aniston from The Morning Show could join a rare group of actors who have won Emmys in both comedy and drama categories. She last won for Friends in 2002 and is now nominated in the drama category for The Morning Show.
Final thoughts
As we gear up for the main event, the anticipation is high. The Creative Arts Emmys have already set the stage for what promises to be a memorable Primetime Emmys ceremony. With numerous records on the line and a diverse array of talent being recognized, this year’s Emmys are shaping up to be a landmark event in television history.# Emmy Awards 2024: Breaking Boundaries and Setting Records
The Emmy Awards have always been a stage for celebrating excellence in television, but the 2024 ceremony promises to be particularly groundbreaking. This year, several nominees are poised to make history, shattering records and breaking new ground in the industry. Let’s delve into the potential milestones and the standout contenders who could redefine the landscape of television awards.
Imelda Staunton’s potential historic win
If Imelda Staunton clinches the Emmy for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in the final season of “The Crown,” it would mark a rare achievement. This would be the third time the same character in the same series wins the Emmy for a different actor. Both Olivia Colman and Claire Foy previously won for their portrayals of the Queen in earlier seasons. Staunton’s win would not only honor her exceptional performance but also underscore the enduring appeal and complexity of the character.
Hiroyuki Sanada’s groundbreaking nomination
Hiroyuki Sanada‘s nomination for “Shōgun” could lead to a historic win. If he triumphs, he would become only the second Asian actor to win in the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series category and the first Japanese actor to do so. Sanada’s performance has been widely acclaimed, and a win would be a significant step forward for representation in the industry.
Gary Oldman: A record-breaking contender
Gary Oldman is on the verge of breaking a unique record. If he wins for his role in “Slow Horses,” he would surpass Richard Kiley as the oldest actor to win in the Lead Actor in a Drama Series category. Kiley was 66 when he won for “A Year in the Life,” and Oldman, also 66, would be a month older at the time of the 2024 ceremony. This potential win would be a testament to Oldman’s enduring talent and versatility.
Tadanobu Asano and Takehiro Hira: Pioneers in supporting roles
Tadanobu Asano and Takehiro Hira, both nominated for “Shōgun,” could become the first Asian actors to win in the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series category. Their victories would also mark the first time Japanese actors have won in this category, highlighting the global reach and impact of their performances.
Elizabeth Debicki: An Australian first
Elizabeth Debicki‘s nomination for “The Crown” could lead to her becoming the first Australian actress to win in the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series category. Debicki’s portrayal of Princess Diana has been lauded for its depth and nuance, making her a strong contender for this historic win.
Sofía Vergara: A trailblazer for Latina actresses
Sofía Vergara‘s nomination for “Griselda” positions her to become the first Latina actress to win in the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series category. Vergara, who would also be the first Colombian actress to win in this category, has consistently delivered powerful performances, and a win would be a significant milestone for Latina representation in television.
Indigenous representation: Lily Gladstone and Kali Reis
Lily Gladstone (“Under the Bridge”) and Kali Reis (“True Detective: Night Country”) could become the first Indigenous actors to win in the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series category. Their nominations are a testament to their exceptional talent and the growing recognition of Indigenous voices in the industry.
Nava Mau: Breaking barriers for transgender actresses
Nava Mau‘s nomination for “Baby Reindeer” could lead to her becoming the first Latina actress to win in the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series category. Additionally, she could become the first transgender actress to ever win an Emmy in any acting category. Mau’s potential win would be a groundbreaking moment for transgender representation in television.
“The Amazing Race”: Extending its legacy
“The Amazing Race” could further solidify its status as the most awarded program in the Outstanding Reality Competition Program category. With 10 Emmys already under its belt and its 21st nomination in 2024, the show continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling adventures and compelling storytelling.
RuPaul: A record-setting icon
RuPaul is nominated once again in the Outstanding Reality Competition Program category as a producer of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” A win would extend his record as the person of color with the most Emmys ever won, potentially bringing his total to 12. RuPaul’s influence on the industry and his role in promoting diversity and inclusion cannot be overstated.
Predictions for the big night
As the Emmy Awards approach, anticipation builds around who will take home the coveted trophies. Here are some standout predictions for the night:
- Drama Series: “Shōgun” (FX)
- Comedy Series: “The Bear” (FX)
- Limited Series: “Baby Reindeer” (Netflix)
- Lead Actor (Drama): Hiroyuki Sanada, “Shōgun” (FX)
- Lead Actor (Comedy): Jeremy Allen White, “The Bear” (FX)
- Lead Actor (Limited): Andrew Scott, “Ripley” (Netflix)
- Lead Actress (Drama): Anna Sawai, “Shōgun” (FX)
- Lead Actress (Comedy): Jean Smart, “Hacks” (Max)
- Lead Actress (Limited): Jodie Foster, “True Detective: Night Country” (Max)
- Supporting Actor (Drama): Billy Crudup, “The Morning Show” (Apple TV+)
- Supporting Actor (Comedy): Ebon Moss-Bachrach, “The Bear” (FX)
- Supporting Actor (Limited): Jonathan Bailey, “Fellow Travelers” (Showtime)
- Supporting Actress (Drama): Lesley Manville, “The Crown” (Netflix)
- Supporting Actress (Comedy): Hannah Einbinder, “Hacks” (Max)
- Supporting Actress (Limited): Jessica Gunning, “Baby Reindeer” (Netflix)
- Talk Series: “The Daily Show” (Comedy Central)
- Scripted Variety Series: “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver” (Max)
- Reality or Competition Program: “RuPaul’s Drag Race” (MTV)
- Directing (Drama): “Shōgun” (FX), Frederick E.O. Toye, “Chapter Nine: Crimson Sky”
- Directing (Comedy): “The Bear” (FX), Christopher Storer, “Fishes”
- Directing (Limited/TV Movie): “True Detective: Night Country” (Max), Issa López, series
- Writing (Drama): “The Crown” (Netflix), “Ritz” by Peter Morgan and Meriel Sheibani-Clare
- Writing (Comedy): “The Bear” (FX), “Fishes” by Joanna Calo, Christopher Storer
- Writing (Limited/TV Movie): “Baby Reindeer” (Netflix), Series by Richard Gadd
- Writing (Variety Special): “Alex Edelman: Just For Us” (HBO/Max), Alex Edelman
The 76th Emmy Awards will be broadcast live from downtown Los Angeles’ Peacock Theatre on September 15. For those who miss the live telecast, it will be available for streaming from September 16 to September 22 via Hulu.
For more in-depth discussions and interviews with top film and TV talent, tune into the “Awards Circuit” podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, or wherever you download podcasts.