“Baby Reindeer” Shines Among Major Emmy Winners as “Shogun” Makes History

In a night filled with surprises and standout moments, Baby Reindeer emerged as one of the biggest winners at the Emmys, solidifying its status as a must-watch series. The show captivated audiences and critics alike with its gripping narrative and compelling performances, making a significant impact on the awards circuit.

Meanwhile, Shogun made history, setting a new standard for international television. The Japanese historical drama’s richly layered narrative and groundbreaking representation captivated Emmy voters, earning it the distinction of being the first non-English language series to win Best Drama. The show’s four wins on the night brought its total to a record-breaking 18 awards this season, following its earlier success at the Creative Arts Emmys.

Together, Baby Reindeer and Shogun defined a night that will be remembered for celebrating bold, innovative storytelling.

Baby Reindeer creator and star Richard Gadd won awards for both writing and lead actor in the limited series category, with Jessica Gunning also recognized as Best Supporting Actress. On stage, Gadd, 35, described his wins as the “stuff of dreams,” sharing how his own life experiences inspired the show. In his acceptance speech, he reflected, “Ten years ago, I was down and out. I never thought I’d get my life together… I say this as encouragement for anyone going through tough times: keep going, and I promise you things will be okay.”

The evening also saw major wins for The Bear, which picked up four awards in comedy, including acting honors for Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Liza Colon-Zayas. White, who won Best Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, described his journey as “life-changing,” adding, “This show has instilled a faith that change is possible if you reach out—you are truly not alone.”

Elizabeth Debicki took home her first Emmy for her portrayal of Diana, Princess of Wales, in The Crown, while Jodie Foster, already an Oscar winner, secured her first Emmy as Best Lead Actress in a Limited Series for True Detective: Night Country.

Held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, the ceremony was a milestone for Shogun. Stars Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai made history as the first Japanese actors to win Emmys in dramatic acting categories. Sanada, receiving a standing ovation, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Shogun taught me that when people work together, we can make miracles.” Sawai, visibly emotional, dedicated her award to “all the women who expect nothing and continue to be examples for everyone.”

In his acceptance speech for the writing award, Gadd said: “Ten years ago, I was down and out. I never ever thought I’d get my life together… then here I am, just over a decade later, picking up one of the biggest writing awards in television.

Father-son hosting duo Eugene and Dan Levy injected humor into the night, joking that The Bear, which portrays the intense world of a professional kitchen, could easily be classified as a drama. Despite The Bear’s success, the ceremony ended with a twist as Hacks claimed the top prize for Best Comedy Series.

‘I’m a mess today’

A tearful Sawai, a first-time nominee, said: “I was crying before my name was announced. I’m a mess today. This to all the women who expect nothing and continue to be an example for everyone.”

‘This show has changed my life’

And Baby Reindeer and Shogun were not the only shows to receive multiple prizes, with hit series The Bear also a big winner.

The 2024 Emmys marked the second ceremony of the season, postponed due to the US writers’ and actors’ strikes. The event honored a range of bold and innovative storytelling, celebrating shows that have defined a transformative year in television.