The 2017 Emmy Awards feature a healthy mix of female nominees in various categories. The awards strike a balance between younger and older women in television. The nominations, which were announced on July 13 honor both actresses and female writers. The event is dominated by productions, such as “Feud: Bette and Joan,” “Big Little Lies,” “The Handmaid’s Tale” and the “The Crown.”
The list of nominated shows and actors showcases the phenomenal talent of the women who contributed to the success. This is undoubtedly a clear indication that the era dominated by male antiheroes is relinquishing the spotlight as the collective female experience reigns supreme.
Balanced show
Older women typically find it difficult to secure meaningful roles in Hollywood. Given this background, it is more encouraging to note that the 2017 Emmys are more balanced. Women of all ages are represented. From Judy Davis and Millie Bobby Brown to Laura Dern and Nicole Kidman, this year's show provides a refreshing surprise for female actresses.
This list also includes Jessica Lange, Jackie Hoffman, Susan Sarandon and Reese Witherspoon.
The drama series category includes more women nominees than in the previous year's thanks to the absence of “Game of Thrones.” Netflix's “The Crown” and Hulu's “The Handmaid’s Tale” each received up to 13 nominations in recognition of their riveting stories.
On the other hand, the limited series category features outstanding productions in the form of “Feud” and “Big Little Lies.” Both focus on stories dominated by women.
Women in writing, top series and directing Emmy categories
“Homeland’s” Lesli Linka Glatter is nominated in the drama series directing category alongside other female contenders.
Meanwhile, several women joined the competition in the comedy series writing and directing categories. However, the numbers are relatively low when compared to the drama series directing race.
Glatter's work on “Homeland” was rewarded with three consecutive nominations and this year she is also recognized for her role in the “America First” episode.
Lisa Joy forms part of the women showrunners who made the cut in the drama series race. Joy's performance in HBO's “Westworld” earned her the nomination. While the 2016 edition of the Emmy awards did not feature any women showrunners in the drama category, this year's show boasts a number of contenders, including Melissa James Gibson (“House of Cards”).
The 2017 Emmy Awards event takes place at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles and it will be aired live on CBS.
