Hacks surprises at 2024 Emmys, wins Best Comedy over The Bear

At the 2024 Emmy Awards, HBO's 'Hacks' emerged as a surprising winner for Best Comedy, defeating FX's 'The Bear,' which had set a new record for total Emmy wins in the comedy category. 'Hacks,' which centers on an aging comedian mentoring a younger woman, also saw its star, Jean Smart, take home the award for Best Actress in a Comedy, further solidifying the show's acclaim. This marked a significant achievement for 'Hacks,' which has now won nine Emmys, including three in the current year. Despite 'The Bear' winning a total of 11 Emmy awards, it notably did not secure the Best Comedy title, a category it has been nominated for 12 times without a win. The show had previously set a record with 10 wins last year and continued to dominate the awards night, including victories at the Creative Arts ceremony. Among its wins was Jamie Lee Curtis for Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series. The eligibility of 'The Bear' for the Best Comedy category raised questions due to its dramatic elements, which diverge from traditional comedy formats. This uncertainty was humorously acknowledged by the Emmy hosts, who refrained from making jokes about the show's classification. The juxtaposition of 'Hacks' and 'The Bear' highlights the evolving landscape of comedy in television, where boundaries between genres are increasingly blurred. The outcome of the awards reflects a shift in recognition within the industry, as 'Hacks' has gained momentum and critical acclaim, while 'The Bear,' despite its record-breaking wins, continues to seek validation in the Best Comedy category. This year's Emmy results may influence future nominations and the perception of what constitutes a comedy in the television landscape.