In a dazzling display of global talent, the 2023 International Emmy Awards recently unfolded in New York, providing ample cause for celebration among the Indian contingent. Uniting nominees from 20 different countries, a total of 56 contenders gathered in a single venue. This prestigious event, recognising excellence in the television industry, showcased outstanding performances and celebrated the magic of storytelling from around the world.
From surprising wins to heartfelt moments, the ceremony left an indelible mark, and here are all the highlights that you need...
Vir Das’ Comic Conquest
The spotlight shone brightly on the comedy category, where the hilarious Vir Das, one of India’s top comedians, clinched his first Emmy win with his Netflix special, Vir Das: Landing. Breaking new ground, Vir Das not only secured his victory but also made history as the first Indian comedian to bring home this coveted award. He shared the limelight with the uproarious Derry Girls from the United Kingdom, creating an unforgettable tie in the Best Comedy category.
The Tug of War for Best Actress
The Best Actress category was a battleground of talent, featuring stellar performances from around the globe. Shefali Shah, vying for the trophy for her role in Delhi Crime Season 2, faced tough competition but lost out to the brilliant Karla Souza, who took home the award for her gripping performance in La Caida [Dive]. Notably, Shefali Shah’s Delhi Crime Season 1 had previously secured the prestigious best drama award at the 2020 International Emmys. The category showcased the fierce dedication and artistry of these exceptional actresses.
Jim Sarbh Loses Out Narrowly
In the Best Actor category, English actor Martin Freeman emerged triumphant for his role in The Responder, overshadowing the stellar performance of Jim Sarbh, the star of Rocket Boys from India. Freeman’s win added another feather to the cap of the United Kingdom, which dominated the awards ceremony with multiple victories.
Ektaa Kapoor’s Directorial Honour
The Indian film fraternity celebrated a momentous occasion as Ektaa Kapoor, the prolific producer, was honoured with the esteemed Directorate Award. Kapoor, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Indian television and film, expressed her gratitude on Instagram, stating, “India, I’m bringing home YOUR Emmy.” This recognition marked a significant achievement for Kapoor and underscored the global impact of Indian storytelling.
A Global Tapestry of Winners
The list of winners spanned across diverse genres and countries, showcasing the richness of global television. From gripping dramas to side-splitting comedies, here’s a curated look at the full list of winners:
Best Performance by an Actor:
- Martin Freeman in The Responder - United Kingdom (WINNER)
- Gustavo Bassani in Iosi, El Espía Arrepentido - Argentina
- Jonas Karlsson in Nattryttarna [Riding in Darkness] - Sweden
- Jim Sarbh in Rocket Boys - India
Best Performance by an Actress:
- Karla Souza in La Caída [Dive] - Mexico (WINNER)
- Connie Nielsen in Drømmeren – Karen Blixen Bliver Til - Denmark
- Billie Piper in I Hate Suzie Too - United Kingdom
- Shefali Shah in Delhi Crime – Season 2 - India
Comedy:
- Derry Girls – Season 3 - United Kingdom (WINNER, TIE)
- Vir Das: Landing - India (WINNER, TIE)
- El Encargado [The Boss] - Argentina
- Le Flambeau – Season 2 [La Flamme] - France
TV Movie/Mini-Series:
- La Caída [Dive] - Mexico (WINNER)
- Chaeboljib Maknaeadeul [Reborn Rich] - South Korea
- Infiniti - France
- Life and Death in the Warehouse - United Kingdom
Short-Form Series:
- The Mandela Project - South Africa (WINNER)
- Lynchings - Brazil
- Des Gens Bien Ordinaires [A Very Ordinary World] - France
- Man vs. Bee - United Kingdom
Non-Scripted Entertainment:
- A Ponte – The Bridge Brasil - Brazil (WINNER)
- Hôtel du Temps: Dalida [The Time Hotel: Dalida] - France
- Love by A.I. - Japan
- The Great British Bake Off – Season 13 - United Kingdom
Kids: Animation:
- The Smeds and The Smoos - United Kingdom (WINNER)
- Menino Maluquinho [The Nutty Boy] - Brazil
- Moominvalley – Season 3 - Finland
- Rilakkuma’s Theme Park Adventure - Japan
Kids: Factual:
- Built To Survive - Australia (WINNER)
- Quintal TV – Season 2 [Yard TV] - Brazil
- Takalani Sesame – Season 13 - South Africa
- Triff… Anne Frank [Meet… Anne Frank] - Germany
Kids: Live-Action:
- Heartbreak High - Australia (WINNER)
- Gudetama: An Eggcellent Adventure - Japan
- Kol Od Balevav [Memory Forest] - Israel
- Tierra Incógnita - Argentina
Drama Series:
- The Empress - Germany (WINNER)
- Extraordinary Attorney Woo - South Korea
- Iosi, El Espía Arrepentido - Argentina
- The Devil’s Hour - United Kingdom
Telenovela:
- Yargi [Family Secrets] - Turkey (WINNER)
- Cara e Coragem - Brazil
- Pantanal - Brazil
- Para Sempre [Forever] - Portugal
Sports Documentary:
- Harley & Katya - Australia (WINNER)
- 30 Dias Para Ganar - Mexico
- Alexia. Labor Omnia Vincit - Spain
- Two Sides - South Africa
