Matthew Rhys was awarded both best lead actor in a comedy and best lead actor in a limited series at the Emmy Awards, making history as the first person to win two lead acting prizes in one night. Rhys received recognition for his performances in the supernatural comedy 'Widow's Bay' and the psychological thriller 'The Beast In Me'. During his acceptance speech, Rhys dedicated his second award to the people of Wales, stating, "We are a small but mighty nation. This is incredible," and expressed gratitude in Welsh with "Diolch yn fawr iawn".
Other winners at the ceremony included Jean Smart, Allison Janney, and Stephen Colbert, with an emotional tribute to Dolly Parton and a humanitarian award presented to Michael J. Fox. Rhys won the award for best lead actor in a limited series for 'The Beast In Me' and followed up with a win for best lead actor in a comedy for 'Widow's Bay'. He noted backstage, "I'm from a small country, and I'm glad we get moments to kind of put our flag on the map and say, 'we punch higher than our weight sometimes'."
The storyline of 'The Beast In Me' involves a grieving author, played by Claire Danes, who becomes obsessed with a new neighbor suspected of murder. Rhys thanked Danes for her partnership in the project, calling it a "real shock" to win the award.
In addition to Rhys, Kate O'Flynn won best supporting comedy actress for her role in 'Widow's Bay'. She expressed gratitude to the show's producers and acknowledged the residents of the fictional island depicted in the series.
Jean Smart won best comedy actress for her role in 'Hacks', marking her fifth Emmy win for the series. Allison Janney also achieved her eighth Emmy win, taking home the award for best supporting actress in a drama series. Rhea Seehorn won her first Emmy for best lead actress in a drama series for 'Pluribus'.
Noah Wyle won best lead actor in a drama series for the second consecutive year for his role in 'The Pitt', which also won best drama. Michael J. Fox received the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award for his advocacy work for Parkinson's disease.
The ceremony included a tribute to Dolly Parton, led by Sally Field, and performances honoring various artists. Alan Cumming won the best reality show prize for 'The Traitors', and Stephen Colbert received the award for best variety series after concluding his show in May.