Emmy Season, But a Different Choice

Ahead of the 77th Emmy Awards on September 12 (U.S. time), NPR's veteran TV critic Eric Deggans announced his picks for this year's best shows through his own awards ceremony, the 'Deggys.'

Deggans, who has been critiquing television for over 30 years, is known for annually selecting "shows the Emmys will overlook." He emphasized that "especially during difficult times, the value of TV series that are ambitious, creative, and carry important messages shines even brighter."

Outstanding Drama Series: 'Andor'

Deggans' choice for Outstanding Drama Series is the Disney+ original series 'Andor'.

Set in the Star Wars universe, 'Andor' stars Diego Luna as the titular character Cassian Andor. The series chronicles Andor's transformation from a smuggler into a key Rebel spy over two seasons.

Featuring powerful performances from Stellan Skarsgård, Ben Mendelsohn, and Denise Gough, the show delicately portrays how rebellion begins against an oppressive authoritarian regime.

Deggans noted, "While sci-fi series are typically expected to be grateful just for nominations, 'Andor' is one of the most meticulously crafted dramas of the year."

The Emmys' Limitations and Confusion

Deggans also pointed out problems with the Emmy system. He cited FX's popular series 'The Bear' as an example, where new seasons premiere just after the Emmy eligibility period, meaning this year's potential win would actually recognize last year's season.

Additionally, the genre debate over "whether 'The Bear' is actually a comedy" continues to persist.

Actual Emmy Predictions

While 'Andor' is his personal choice, Deggans predicted that HBO's 'The White Lotus' will actually win the Emmy.

He revealed his personal preference for Apple TV+'s 'Severance', stating that "Ben Stiller's ambitious vision is far ahead of Mike White's HBO show." He praised the originality of 'Severance' in its treatment of corporate culture and human relationships.

The Role of TV in Difficult Times

Deggans posed the fundamental question of "who should care about TV awards ceremonies at a time like this," yet answered that "during tough times, shows that genuinely make us laugh or think can become our most precious resources."

He particularly emphasized that 'Andor's' portrayal of how authoritarian regimes crush even their own bureaucrats delivers an important message at a time when real-world authoritarians are visibly consolidating their power.