With the previous indefinite delay of the 2023 Emmys due to writers’ and actors’ strikes, this year’s ceremony was more anticipated than ever before— and it did not disappoint.  Host Anthony Anderson (“Blackish”) ushered in an exciting evening as television stars filled Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater, adorned in the latest fashions and buzzing with anticipation. 

The unmistakable leading contender of the evening was HBO’s business drama “Succession”, receiving 27 nominations for its final season.  With nods in all major categories, they were awarded 6 Primetime Emmys—including outstanding comedy series. Writer Jesse Armstrong and director Mark Mylod were awarded for their creative efforts on the project.  Additionally, leading cast members Kieran Culkin and Sarah Snook took home accolades for best actor and actress in a comedy series, while Matthew Macfayden secured acknowledgement for his supporting role.  In their final hours, the Roy siblings proved to be victorious again.

Leading the race in the comedy categories was Hulu’s “The Bear”, a fast-paced found-family story set in Chicago’s culinary scene.  Taking home all 6 awards the series was nominated for, the show continued to build anticipation for its upcoming third season. Jeremy Allen White and Ayo Edebiri cemented their status as newfound Hollywood royalty as they were granted recognition for their stellar performances as leading actor and supporting actress respectively.

However, the clean sweep of “Succession” and “The Bear” meant the inevitable lock-out of other contenders.  HBO’s “The Last of Us”, following “Succession” closely behind with 24 nominations, only scored 8 trophies, all in minor categories. Meanwhile, Apple TV’s “Ted Lasso”, which also had 21 nominations, only ended up securing 2 Creative Arts Emmys.

Yet, the biggest win of the night was inarguably Quinta Brunson, who took home the award for leading actress in a comedy series. Awarded for her performance in “Abbott Elementary”—a show about a group of teachers giving their all to their underprivileged community—the historic win marks the first time in over 40 years that an African American woman has won in the major category. 

The combination of Quinta Brunson’s exponentially rising stardom and Elton John’s EGOT win made for a notable night in many regards. With quips from cast members and delightful interactions among industry friends, the evening proved to be as entertaining as the television shows it celebrated.