Image: Channel 4
Homeland and Downton Abbey stars have triumphed for the UK at this year’s Primetime Emmy Awards, which took place in Los Angeles on 23 September.
Brit star Damian Lewis claimed the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, over Breaking Bad’s Bryan Cranston and Mad Men star Jon Hamm, while Dame Maggie Smith, 77, walked away with the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series prize for her role in Downton Abbey.
Collecting his gong, Lewis, 41, said:
“I’m one of those pesky Brits, I apologise. I don’t really believe in judging art, but I thought I’d show up just in case.
“What an extraordinary honour to be in a category with these golden actors setting a gold standard in acting in a golden age of TV.
“The cast that I work with who are delightful and enjoyable to dine with but especially to the two ladies who’ve suffered me the most, Claire Danes and Marina Baccarin. You’re both beautiful and it’s enjoyable working with you, every minute of it.”
The Showtime series also beat the likes of Mad Men, Game of Thrones, Breaking Bad, Boardwalk Empire and our very own Downton to win in the Outstanding Drama Series category, with the show’s lead Claire Danes also taking home Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
However, it was US show Modern Family that dominated the awards this year, taking the Best Comedy prize for the third year running, as well as accolades for Directing and Best Supporting Actress and Actor in a Comedy Series.
The 64th Emmy Awards were presented by talkshow host Jimmy Kimmel. UK viewers will be able to see highlights on 24 September on 5USA at 10pm.
The new series of Homeland starts on Channel 4 on 7 October.
