Bloys shrugs off Emmy snubs, hails *The Last of Us* Season 2
HBO Chief Casey Bloys downplayed Emmy snubs, focusing on *The Last of Us* Season 2 after only two HBO shows got major nominations. Emmys still drive prestige, but HBO’s shift to franchise-building and
HBO’s top programming chief Casey Bloys has brushed off the network’s latest Emmy snub with a simple verdict: “I’m just proud to have Season 2.” The c
Read Full Story at Hollywood Reporter →Why This Matters
The Emmy snubs for HBO’s 2024 slate underscore a growing disconnect between traditional awards prestige and the streaming era’s evolving priorities. Casey Bloys’ focus on *The Last of Us* Season 2 reflects a strategic pivot—where franchise loyalty and cultural impact now outweigh the symbolic validation of awards ceremonies. This shift signals that platforms like HBO are redefining success, even as the Emmys remain a barometer of industry influence.
Background Context
HBO’s Emmy dominance once seemed unassailable, with prestige dramas like *Game of Thrones* and *Succession* anchoring its reputation. However, the rise of streaming competitors and the fragmentation of audience attention have forced a recalibration, with HBO increasingly prioritizing franchises over standalone prestige series. The Emmys, meanwhile, still wield outsized influence despite declining viewership and criticism over outdated voting models.
What Happens Next
Expect HBO to double down on franchise-driven content, with *The Last of Us* Season 2 serving as a test case for whether cultural ubiquity can replace awards season dominance. The Emmys’ credibility gap may widen if more top-tier shows bypass the ceremony altogether, while competitors like Netflix and Apple could exploit the void by courting voters with high-profile originals. Watch for HBO’s next major release—whether it leans into awards bait or leans harder into fan-driven storytelling.
Bigger Picture
This moment captures the broader tension between legacy prestige and the new media economy, where algorithmic engagement and franchising outpace traditional awards seasons. As streaming platforms prioritize long-term IP value over fleeting critical acclaim, the Emmys’ relevance is being tested—potentially reshaping how prestige is defined in Hollywood. The industry may soon face a reckoning: awards matter less, but what replaces them could be even more decisive.
