Apple TV Leads Emmy Wins as Ceremony Highlights Industry Shift

Apple TV emerged as the top winner at the Emmy Awards, taking home 28 trophies, including a record 14 for the comedy series "Widow's Bay" and six for the drama "Pluribus." HBO followed with 21 awards and Netflix with 16. The ceremony, held at the Peacock Theater, was noted for its emphasis on television's evolving role rather than overt political humor.

Mariska Hargitay, hosting for the first time in 15 years, incorporated musical performances and cameo sketches, including a number featuring Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson and a "Law & Order: SVU" parody with Taylor Swift. She highlighted television's capacity to create "magic" for audiences.

Comedian Stephen Colbert accepted his final two Emmys for "The Late Show" with a speech focused on gratitude toward his staff, his wife and his 11-year tenure at CBS, avoiding references to current political issues.

Sally Field, receiving an Emmy for her role in the Netflix film "Remarkably Bright Creatures," underscored the importance of artistic voices, saying, "We’re the arts. We matter. Our diversity, our unique storytelling matters. We can’t let those voices be silenced or compromised."

"Yes, we are entertainers. We make you laugh, we make you cry, occasionally we make you look away in disgust," said R. Scott Gemmill, creator of "The Pitt," during his acceptance of best drama series, adding that the industry should strive to do the right thing.

The broadcast also honored late industry figures, including Rob Reiner, Catherine O’Hara and James Burrows, with musical tributes from Reba McEntire and Noah Kahan. Michael J. Fox received the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award, speaking from his wheelchair about living with Parkinson's disease and maintaining his comedic career.

Overall, the ceremony reflected a period of transition for television, balancing celebration of new streaming successes with reverence for its artistic and humanitarian contributions.