The 76th annual Primetime Emmy Awards unfolded as a captivating celebration of television’s finest, replete with heartwarming tributes, witty banter, and history-making victories. From the dynamic father-son hosting duo of Eugene and Dan Levy to the resounding success of FX’s “Shōgun,” the 2024 Emmys etched its mark as a night to remember.
Levy Family Charm Takes Center Stage
Eugene and Dan Levy’s opening monologue set the tone for an evening brimming with familial warmth and playful ribbing. The father-son comedic duo seamlessly traded lighthearted jabs, with Dan poking fun at his father’s missed opportunity to portray the Menendez brothers, while Eugene playfully reminded Dan that his most rewarding paternal role was their shared triumph in “Schitt’s Creek” – the show that earned Eugene his first acting Emmy.
Selena Gomez and Her ‘Childless Cat Ladies’ Quip
Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, and Martin Short stole the spotlight as they presented the first award of the night. Short wasted no time in roasting his “Only Murders in the Building” co-star Martin, likening his appearance to someone who “looks like he’s fallen and can’t get up.” Martin swiftly retaliated, comparing Short to “a former women’s tennis champion.” Gomez, ever the witty straight woman, chimed in with a quip that resonated throughout the evening: “What an honor it is to work with two men who are this far away from being childless cat ladies” – a sly reference to Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance’s controversial remark.
Liza Colón-Zayas’ Emotional Triumph
In a heartwarming moment, Liza Colón-Zayas of “The Bear” etched her name in Emmy history, becoming the first Latina to win Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Her acceptance speech was a poignant blend of gratitude and empowerment, as she thanked her husband, family, and the show’s creators for “giving me a new life.” Moved to tears by the presence of legends like Meryl Streep and Carol Burnett, Colón-Zayas urged fellow Latinas to “keep believing and vote. Vote for your rights.”
Jean Smart’s Self-Deprecating Humor
Jean Smart’s sixth Emmy win for her role in “Hacks” was accompanied by a dose of self-deprecating humor that endeared her to the audience. The legendary actress joked, “I appreciate this, because I just don’t get enough attention,” before adding with a wry smile, “I’m serious!”
‘Saturday Night Live’ Alums Roast Lorne Michaels
When Kristen Wiig, Seth Meyers, Maya Rudolph, and Bowen Yang took the stage to present the Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special award, they couldn’t resist poking fun at their mentor, Lorne Michaels. Feigning surprise at Michaels’ numerous Emmy losses, the group playfully ribbed the “Saturday Night Live” creator, with Rudolph quipping, “I can’t believe you’re complaining about this, Lorne. Not to be rude, but grow up.”
‘Happy Days’ Reunion: The Fonz Lives On
Ron Howard and Henry Winkler’s reunion on a recreated set of Arnold’s Drive-In from “Happy Days” was a nostalgic delight. Winkler, reprising his iconic role as The Fonz, performed the character’s signature jukebox slam, triggering the show’s theme song and eliciting an enthusiastic “Heyyyy, it’s alright” from the audience.
The Bartlet Administration’s Civic Duty
Members of “The West Wing’s” fictional Bartlet administration – Martin Sheen, Richard Schiff, Dulé Hill, Allison Janney, and Janel Moloney – took to a recreated Oval Office set to present the Outstanding Drama Series award. Amid reminiscing about the show’s memorable political storylines, the cast emphasized the importance of voter registration and participation, underscoring the enduring relevance of their roles.
‘Shōgun’ Sweeps the Drama Categories
FX’s “Shōgun” emerged as the night’s biggest winner, claiming four additional Emmys, including Outstanding Drama Series, after its record-breaking 14 Creative Arts Emmys earlier in the month. Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai’s emotional acceptance speeches for Outstanding Lead Actor and Actress in a Drama Series, respectively, were a highlight, with Sanada expressing gratitude in Japanese for the opportunity to showcase the passion and dreams of the samurai tradition.
The Shingles Ad Conundrum
In an unexpected and somewhat perplexing moment, a random voiceover boomed “Shingles doesn’t care!” during Steve Martin and Martin Short’s bit, accompanied by a stamp reminiscent of a popular TV advertisement. While the reason behind the interruption remained unclear, it provided a lighthearted reminder of the ever-evolving nature of television and its ability to seamlessly integrate viral memes and pop culture references.
‘Schitt’s Creek’ Cast Reunites for a Final Hurrah
Eugene and Dan Levy brought out their former “Schitt’s Creek” co-stars Annie Murphy and Catherine O’Hara for one last hilarious bit, with Murphy initially pretending to be the night’s final presenter. After a playful exchange, O’Hara took the stage to present the Outstanding Comedy Series award, bringing the evening full circle with a nod to the beloved show’s enduring legacy.
Ending in a “Surprise” Win
At the 76th Emmy Awards, “Hacks” triumphed in a stunning upset, capturing the Outstanding Comedy Series award for the first time, along with accolades for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series and Outstanding Lead Actress for Jean Smart. This win was particularly surprising as “The Bear,” heavily favored to clinch the top prize, had been predicted to dominate. The prevailing belief was that “The Bear’s” placement in the comedy category was a misfit, as it’s often viewed more as a dramedy, unlike the pure comedy essence of “Hacks.” Despite “The Bear” breaking records with 11 wins in a single year for a comedy series, it failed to secure the top award, underscoring a shift in recognition and validating “Hacks'” exceptional season and appeal. Even the cast and creators were shocked!
The 2024 Emmy Awards proved to be a testament to the power of television to inspire, entertain, and unite audiences across generations and backgrounds. From groundbreaking wins to heartfelt tributes and side-splitting humor, the night celebrated the very best of television.
