The 76th Primetime Emmy Awards, held on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, was an evening of celebration, diversity, nostalgia, and surprises.
This year’s ceremony, hosted by the witty father-son duo Eugene and Dan Levy, captivated audiences with a blend of humor, emotion, and a series of historic wins. As television continues to evolve and reflect a more diverse world, the 2024 Emmys celebrated this progress while honoring the past.
The night was a major milestone for representation in Hollywood, with some of the most groundbreaking wins in Emmy history. Anna Sawai, for instance, made history as the first actress of Asian descent to win Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in ‘Shogun’. Her emotional speech, filled with gratitude and reflection, acknowledged the importance of her achievement not only for her but for the wider Asian community in entertainment.
Equally significant was Hiroyuki Sanada's win for Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series, also for ‘Shogun’. Sanada became the first Japanese actor, and only the second Asian actor, to win this prestigious category, further solidifying the historic impact of the evening. His win, like Sawai’s, was met with resounding applause, signaling a new chapter in the Emmys’ recognition of global talent.
In another landmark moment, Liza Colón-Zayas became the first Latina actress to win Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in ‘The Bear’. Overcome with emotion, Colón-Zayas admitted she had not written a speech, a testament to how unexpected the win felt to her. Her victory was not just a personal accomplishment but a broader win for Latina representation in comedy.
The major awards of the night spanned multiple genres, showcasing the depth and diversity of modern television. ‘The Crown’ continued its dominance in the drama category, winning Outstanding Drama Series.
The critically acclaimed series, known for its intricate portrayal of British royalty, once again affirmed its place among television’s most revered dramas. In the comedy realm, ‘Hacks’ surprised many by taking home the award for Outstanding Comedy Series, beating out strong contenders like ‘Abbott Elementary’ and ‘Only Murders in the Building’. ‘Hacks’’ win underscored its sharp writing and superb performances, solidifying its status as a comedy force.
Jeremy Allen White, star of ‘The Bear’, added to the night’s excitement by winning Best Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. His portrayal of a young chef trying to navigate the high-stress world of a struggling restaurant resonated with audiences, making him a fan favorite and a deserving winner. White’s win was one of many for ‘The Bear’, which emerged as one of the night’s biggest winners, further cementing its place as one of the year’s standout shows.
The limited series category also had its share of praise, with ‘Baby Reindeer’ winning Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series. The series, which captured both critical acclaim and audience attention, was lauded for its originality and emotional depth. Its win underscored the rising prominence of limited series in today’s television landscape, where audiences increasingly gravitate toward shorter, self-contained storytelling formats.
One of the night’s most memorable moments was the heartfelt reunion of the ‘Schitt’s Creek’ cast. The beloved show, which dominated the Emmys just a few years ago, brought together its stars once again, much to the delight of fans. Catherine O’Hara, in her iconic fashion, presented the award for Outstanding Comedy Series, providing a nostalgic reminder of the show's comedic brilliance. Eugene and Dan Levy, as co-hosts, further played into this reunion, blending humor with the sentimental pull of seeing the cast together again.
Nostalgia continued to sweep the night as the cast of ‘The West Wing’ celebrated the 25th anniversary of the show. Martin Sheen, Richard Schiff, Allison Janney, and Dulé Hill shared the stage, offering a poignant reminder of how the show redefined political dramas for an entire generation. The reunion featured reflections on the show’s impact and its enduring legacy, resonating with audiences who fondly remember its influence on both television and real-world political discourse.
In a similarly emotional reunion, the cast of ‘Happy Days’ appeared together on stage, transporting viewers back to the golden age of sitcoms. This reunion, like those of ‘Schitt’s Creek’ and ‘The West Wing’, offered a moment of pure nostalgia for fans, reminding the audience of television’s ability to create lasting cultural touchstones.
While the night celebrated television’s rich past and present, it also grappled with important social themes. John Leguizamo’s powerful speech on diversity in Hollywood reframed the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) movement in a new light. He cleverly redefined DEI as Diligence, Excellence, and Imagination, pointing out that everyone in the industry who embodies these values is a “DEI hire.” His words underscored the ongoing importance of pushing for equity and representation in entertainment.
Political commentary wasn’t far behind. Candice Bergen, star of ‘Murphy Brown’, made a humorous yet pointed speech while accepting her award. Reflecting on the changing political landscape since her show’s heyday, she commented on the difference in how politics and media are now interwoven. Her remarks brought levity while also reminding viewers of how television can both shape and respond to societal shifts.
The evening also had its share of lighthearted moments, particularly when ‘Baby Reindeer’ creator addressed the audience. He spoke candidly about overcoming personal challenges, offering words of encouragement to those who might be going through similar struggles. His vulnerability and authenticity added an emotional depth to the evening, touching viewers beyond just the glamour and excitement of the awards themselves.
The 2024 Emmys were also marked by an overarching theme of reconciliation and progress. Eugene Levy's charm as a host, combined with Dan Levy's comedic timing, kept the night flowing smoothly, making room for both the serious and the celebratory moments. The night's awards not only honored the best in television but also symbolized Hollywood’s ongoing efforts to expand the stories being told and who gets to tell them.
