Why Matthew Rhys' 'Widow's Bay' Should Scare the Emmy Comedy Field
Variety • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Apple TV’s horror comedy “Widow’s Bay,” created by Katie Dippold and starring Matthew Rhys, is gaining momentum as a potential Emmy contender despite its genre’s historical challenges with the Television Academy.
- The show’s unique blend of horror, comedy, and drama, along with a strong ensemble cast featuring Stephen Root and Kate O’Flynn, is earning critical acclaim and increasing Emmy buzz.
- Only the first seven episodes are eligible for this cycle due to a May 31 cutoff, which may impact some performances, but the show’s rising popularity suggests voters are embracing it regardless.
- Director Hiro Murai, known for acclaimed series like “Atlanta” and “The Bear,” is a notable contender for a directing Emmy, potentially making history as the first Asian director to win in the comedy directing category.
- If nominated, “Widow’s Bay” would signal the Emmys’ willingness to reward risk-taking, genre-blending shows, ensembles over solo stars, and art that defies traditional category boundaries.
