Did Shōgun just make Emmy history? You won’t believe the record-breaking number of awards this show swept up! And guess which comedy stole the spotlight unexpectedly? The 2024 Emmy Awards were full of surprises, with some of the biggest names in television taking home top honors, but it’s the underdog wins that have everyone talking.
The 2024 Emmy Awards saw some of the biggest wins in television history, with FX’s Shōgun and The Bear dominating the night. Held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, this year’s ceremony celebrated the best in TV with outstanding performances and groundbreaking productions.
Major Winners of the Night
One of the biggest stories from this year’s Emmys was Shōgun, an FX drama about political intrigue in feudal Japan. Shōgun led the night with 18 Emmy Awards, including Best Drama Series. This win made Shōgun the most awarded show for a single season in Emmys history.
The show triumphed in various categories like Best Actor in a Drama Series, which went to Hiroyuki Sanada, and Best Actress in a Drama Series, won by Anna Sawai. In addition to its creative technical awards, Shōgun’s victory set a new record for drama series at the Emmys.
Another big winner was The Bear, which took home Best Comedy Series, along with awards for acting. Jeremy Allen White snagged Best Lead Actor for his portrayal of a talented but struggling chef, while the show’s supporting cast, including Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Liza Colón-Zayas, also won in their respective categories. The Bear entered the Emmys with 23 nominations, a record for a comedy series, and left with multiple accolades, cementing its place as one of the most celebrated shows of the year.
Hacks Scores a Surprise Victory
Although The Bear was the talk of the comedy category, Hacks pulled off an upset by winning Best Comedy Series. The HBO show, which portrays the relationship between a legendary stand-up comic and a young writer, stood out for its sharp writing and standout performances, particularly from Jean Smart, who won Best Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.
Notable Acting Wins
In addition to the major wins for Shōgun, the acting categories saw strong competition. Anna Sawai’s portrayal in Shōgun was deeply moving, earning her the Best Actress in a Drama Series award. Meanwhile, veteran actor Billy Crudup took home the Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in The Morning Show.
On the comedy side, Jeremy Allen White’s heartfelt performance in The Bear earned him his first Emmy. Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Liza Colón-Zayas added to the show’s haul by winning Best Supporting Actor and Actress in a Comedy Series, respectively.
Groundbreaking Wins in Other Categories
The Emmy Awards didn’t just celebrate performances; they also acknowledged incredible work behind the scenes. Shōgun was honored for its outstanding direction and writing in a drama series, with Frederick E.O. Toye winning Best Director for the episode “Crimson Sky.” The Bear also picked up an award for Best Directing in a Comedy Series, with Christopher Storer earning the title for his work on the episode “Fishes.”
The variety and limited series categories saw memorable moments as well. Last Week Tonight with John Oliver claimed another win for Outstanding Scripted Variety Series, while Baby Reindeer took home the award for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series. Jodie Foster’s win for Best Lead Actress in a Limited Series for her role in True Detective: Night Country also stood out as a highlight of the evening.
The Event and Hosts
The Emmy Awards returned to their traditional format this year, with the ceremony hosted by the comedic duo Dan and Eugene Levy. The father-son team, best known for their work on Schitt’s Creek, brought their charm and humor to the event, making the night feel lighthearted despite the high-stakes competition. Their rapport kept the audience engaged, with clever anecdotes and playful banter.
A Historic Night
This year’s Emmys had several notable moments, but none more significant than Shōgun’s record-breaking performance. With 18 total wins, including those from the Creative Arts Emmys, Shōgun set a new standard for excellence in television.
Its success reflects the growing trend toward high-quality, international productions being recognized by the Emmy Awards. The show’s intricate storytelling, combined with stellar performances and masterful technical work, made it the undisputed leader of the night.
The 2024 Emmy Awards will be remembered for Shōgun’s historic achievement and the rise of shows like The Bear and Hacks. With its mix of drama, comedy, and behind-the-scenes recognition, the ceremony highlighted the diversity and talent within the television industry. As these shows continue to shape the future of TV, it’s clear that both storytelling and innovation remain at the heart of the Emmy Awards.
