As dazzling celebrities filled the red carpet of L.A.’s NOKIA Theater, tension hid behind smiles. Anticipation amplified for the 62nd Primetime Emmy Awards to commence, Aug. 29.
To simplify the extensive tangle of television awards, five categories were formed: comedy, drama, variety, miniseries and made-for-television movies. A familiar-faced collection of celebrities gave away the Emmy statuettes to winners.
The coveted “Outstanding Series” awards were presented last. “Mad Men” took drama’s big award, and “Modern Family” took comedy’s top prize.
In the subject of comedy, Edie Falco (“Nurse Jackie“) and Jim Parsons (“The Big Bang Theory“) took the Outstanding Lead Actress and Actor awards. The Outstanding Director award went to Ryan Murphy of “Glee.”
For drama, Bryan Cranston (“Breaking Bad“) won Outstanding Lead Actor, and, for her fifth time being nominated, Kyra Sedgwick won Outstanding Lead Actress. Steve Shill of “Dexter” won Outstanding Director.
Among the presentations, other acts of recognition were performed. A song was dedicated to the shows which ended this year, and George Clooney was given the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award.
Before the event began, rumors spread from person to person regarding the latest television gossip, such as upcoming “Glee” plots, and who will replace Steve Carell on “The Office.” Amid all the contrasting ideas, friendly competition bubbled between nominees.
Stars showed off their designer attire, both gorgeous and unusual. Common trends were apparent among the ladies’ gowns, demonstrating recent runway styles. Long gowns accentuated figures, draped in shades of white, navy and sparkles head-to-toe. The looks were completed with hair in glamorous ponytails, windswept waves and intricate updos.
As the clock drew closer to 5 p.m., the carpet’s crowd diffused into the theater for the star-studded award ceremony to begin.
Host Jimmy Fallon led the opening sketch with a musical spoof of “Glee,” including cameo appearances by actors from shows such as “LOST,” “30 Rock” and “Community.” The scene, incorporating many surprising jokes, appealed to the crowd, winning a warm round of applause.
The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences presented the award ceremony live on NBC for the first time in over 30 years.
For a full list of Emmy nominations and winners, visit the official Emmy website.
