The Emmys: A night of glamour, politics, and celebration
The 76th annual Primetime Emmy Awards is set to light up our screens on September 15, airing on ABC. This year, the Emmys promise to honor the best of 2023-2024 television, and expectations are sky-high following the January ceremony. While the initial show didn’t quite hit the ratings mark, its nostalgic elements, including cast reunions and set re-creations, made it a memorable event.
Nostalgia and heartstrings
With Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay returning as executive producers, we can anticipate more of those heartwarming moments. After all, it’s the 30th anniversary of “Friends” just a week after the Emmys. Could we see a tribute? Only time will tell.
Fashion statements on the red carpet
Expect the red carpet to be a dazzling display of high fashion. Gucci, Dior, Chanel, Armani, Versace, and Louis Vuitton will undoubtedly be well-represented. However, keep an eye out for emerging designers who might steal the spotlight. Brooklyn-based Agbobly, known for its vibrant colors and rich materials, could make an appearance. Swedish designer Ellen Hodakova Larsson‘s sustainable designs, already favored by stars like Cate Blanchett and Emma Corrin, might also grace the event.
Greta Lee, nominated for her role in “The Morning Show,” recently wore a black-leather Hodakova corset made from repurposed riding boots. Her fellow nominee, Karen Pittman, will don a custom design by Charles Harbison, who relaunched his studio two years ago. As for jewelry, Bucherer Fine Jewellery is expected to make a strong presence with its dazzling diamond and gemstone designs.
Politics on the red carpet
With the U.S. election day approaching, the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and the war in Ukraine, politics could take center stage at this year’s Emmys. Celebrities have been known to wear red pins in support of Artists for Ceasefire. The Television Academy and ABC are likely working overtime to ensure a smooth event, free from disruptions like the pro-Palestinian protest that delayed the Oscars earlier this year.
The frontrunners and the underdogs
Predicting the winners this year is a bit tricky. Despite the growth of Peak TV, the strike aftermath has resulted in a smaller pool of eligible shows. Netflix leads with 107 nominations across 35 programs. FX follows with 93 nominations for just nine shows, including the highly anticipated “Shōgun” and the comedy hit “The Bear.” HBO, with 91 nominations, is notably absent from the top two spots for the first time in 20 years. However, its “True Detective: Night Country” is the fourth-most-nominated series, making it a strong contender. Apple TV+ also had a record year with 72 nominations, thanks to hits like “Palm Royale” and “The Morning Show.”
Heavy hitters in the categories
The competition is fierce this year. Carol Burnett and Meryl Streep will go head-to-head, while Paul Rudd enters the supporting comedy race against last year’s winner Ebon Moss-Bachrach. The supporting actress in a limited series category features Dakota Fanning, Lily Gladstone, and Diane Lane. Robert Downey Jr., nominated for “The Sympathizer,” will compete against John Hawkes and the late Treat Williams.
Dynamic duos
This year’s Emmys will be hosted by the father-son duo Eugene Levy and Dan Levy, four years after they made history with their wins for “Schitt’s Creek.” The ceremony will also see several couples earning nominations, including Sarah Paulson and Holland Taylor, Carrie Coon and Tracy Letts, and Naomi Watts and Billy Crudup.
The celebration continues
The days and nights leading up to the Emmys will be filled with parties across Los Angeles. Sandra Oh, Anna Sawai, and Awkwafina are expected at the Gold House and Macro toast on September 12. While CAA has no plans for an Emmy soirée, WME, UTA, and Gersh will host their annual pre-parties. BAFTA’s afternoon Tea Party and the Creative Coalition’s Humanitarian Awards are the hot daytime tickets on September 14, followed by the MPTF’s Evening Before benefit. After the ceremony, Disney, Netflix, Apple, and HBO Max will throw after-parties, with HBO Max returning to San Vicente Bungalows for the second consecutive year.
The Emmys are not just about celebrating the best in television; they are a reflection of our times, a stage for political statements, and a showcase of fashion and talent. As we gear up for this grand event, one thing is certain: it will be a night to remember.