The 2024 Emmy Awards have an exciting mix of contenders for Best Drama Series, including both new and returning shows. While it’s a competitive year, the frontrunner is undoubtedly the epic series Shogun, which leads the field with 25 nominations.

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New and Returning Shows Compete

This year, the Best Drama category has a mix of fresh series and returning favorites. Some of the top contenders include:

• New Shows:
  • Fallout
  • Mr. & Mrs. Smith
  • 3 Body Problem
• Returning Shows:
  • The Morning Show
  • The Gilded Age
  • Slow Horses

Among the returning series, only The Crown is a repeat nominee from last year.

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Shogun: The Unexpected Hit

Shogun was originally planned as a limited series, but it became such a huge success that a second season was quickly ordered. The show, based on James Clavell’s novel, received praise for its high production quality, stellar cast, and respectful adaptation by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks. With 25 Emmy nominations, it is the clear favorite in this year’s drama field.

FX’s Role in Revitalizing the Drama Category

FX, the network behind Shogun, played a key role in strengthening this year’s drama category. Without Shogun, the 2024 lineup might have been one of the weakest in years, especially compared to the “prestige cable” era. Even though some believe a second season of Shogun may not be the best choice, the first season has more than earned its place at the Emmys.

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Hiroyuki Sanada: From Japanese Legend to Global Star

One of Shogun’s standout performers is Hiroyuki Sanada, who plays Lord Toranaga. Although Sanada is a well-known figure in Japan, he was relatively unknown in the U.S. before this role. Competing against big names like:

• Idris Elba (Hijack)
• Donald Glover (Mr. & Mrs. Smith)
• Walton Goggins (Fallout)
• Gary Oldman (Slow Horses)
• Dominic West (The Crown)

Sanada’s performance has made him an international star, and at 63, he is now the frontrunner for Best Actor.

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Shogun will win

With a strong lineup of shows, including Shogun leading the pack, the 2024 Emmys promise to be an exciting event for drama fans. Shogun‘s success, along with Hiroyuki Sanada’s rise to stardom, is proof of the show’s global impact. All eyes are on Shogun as the likely winner in the Best Drama Series category.