Highlights from the 2022 Emmys

On September 13th, the Emmys returned at the Microsoft Theater in Downtown Los Angeles. Kenan Thompson hosted, with an array of great jokes and even dancing skills. Shows like Euphoria, Ted Lasso and Succession won big. There were history making moments and lots of hilarious gags.

Here are some of the most notable moments.

Kenan Thompson Opens with a Dance Number

The Emmys opened with a big dance spectacle. Many iconic series from this year were referenced in an impressive interpretive dance. There were references to classics like The Brady Bunch as well as new favorites such as Stranger Things and Game of Thrones. Kenan’s dance crew of over 20 people gave it all they had for an unforgettable opening performance.

Squid Game Makes History

Besides hitting the biggest Netflix record for viewership (over 1.6 billion hours), it made a historic mark at the Emmys. The star of the show, Lee Jung-jae, won the Emmy for Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series. He made history by being the first Asian actor to win that category. Squid Game also made history earlier this year with its nomination for Outstanding Drama Series being the first for a foreign language film.

Jennifer Coolidge Beats the Wrap-Up Music

Jennifer Coolidge won the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series for her role as Tanya in the “White Lotus”. Usually, awards shows are notorious for giving awardees a limited time to say their speeches. Sometimes, they allow them to speak longer, but this time they really wanted her to stop. As she kept on talking as the music swelled, they quickly changed it to “Hit the Road Jack”. Jennifer decided instead of finishing her speech, to do an impromptu dance with the music.

Kenan and Kel Reunite

Kenan and Kel worked together on their sitcom of the same name, as well as Good Burger back in the 2000s. The pair reunited during the awards ceremony. Here is the reunion. The two seemed very happy and took a lot of pictures together, putting them on their respective Instagrams (@kenanthompson and @iamkellmitchell).

Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Impactful Speech

Sheryl Lee Ralph won Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for Abbott Elementary. She sang part of Diane Reeves’ song, “Endangered Species” in her acceptance speech. Everyone in the audience gave her a standing ovation. Here is her speech.

Zendaya Wins her 2nd Emmy

Zendaya made history last year by being the youngest actress (25) to win an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. This year, she reclaimed her title again for her role as Rue Bennet in Euphoria. She also made history by being the first Black woman to win twice in that category.

All in all, this year’s Emmys were definitely entertaining. Next year will bring a new batch of nominees to make their mark.