As the clock struck five on September 12, television channels were switched, phones were turned on, and laptops were opened as viewers frantically tuned in to the 74th Annual Emmy Award Show. 

With the past two years being a blend of virtual and in person attendees, actors flocked at the chance to walk the red carpet. Andrew Garfield was one of many men to don a smart white suit, while actresses such as Amanda Seyfried wore beautiful gowns dotted with sparkles and sequins. 

This year saw many awards given to people of color, highlighting their exceptional performances. Zendaya was awarded best lead actress in a drama series for her work in Euphoria, making her the first black woman to ever receive the award, and the youngest two-time winner in Emmy history. Lee jung-jae, a star in Squid Game became the first Asian actor to receive an award for leading actor in a drama, paving the way for other Asian actors in the future. 

Sheryl Lee Ralph of Abbott Elementary brought the audience to their feet with an emotional rendition of Dianne Reeves’ Endangered Species. With tears she accepted her first Emmy, preaching “this is what striving looks like. And don’t you ever, ever give up on you.”

For an unsurprising third time, Julia Garner was deemed best corresponding actress for her work in the final season of Ozarks. Meanwhile, Succession was named the outstanding drama series of the night, and the winner of both Limited or Anthology series was The White Lotus.

Ted Lasso, for the second year in a row, was awarded best comedy series, while supporting actor of the show, Brett Goldstein, received a second Emmy for his role of Roy Kent. This makes Goldstein the first back to back supporting actor winner since Jeremy Piven in  2007. 

The night came to a close with host Kenan Thompson bidding actors and viewers alike a good evening, marking the end of the 74th Emmy award show.