Australian TV productions emerged as major winners at the International Emmy Awards.
The event, hosted by New Zealand actor and comedian Rhys Darby, saw Australia as the second most awarded country, behind the UK.
Heartbreak High, a Netflix series produced by Fremantle Australia and Newbe, clinched the Kids: Live-Action award. This triumph marks the third time in four years an Australian show has won in this category, following the successes of Hardball in 2020 and First Day in 2021.
Shot in Sydney, Heartbreak High is a modern take on the classic ’90s series, featuring a diverse ensemble cast including Ayesha Madon, Asher Yasbincek, and others.
“We are absolutely elated,” said executive producer Carly Heaton. She expressed the team’s excitement and pride in continuing the legacy of a “beloved icon”.
Built to Survive, another Australian production, took the Kids: Factual & Entertainment prize. Produced by Butter Media and Breslin Media for the ABC, the series highlights Australia’s unique wildlife and is hosted by biologist Phil Breslin.
In the Sports Documentary category, Harley & Katya, a feature documentary by Stranger Than Fiction Films, emerged victorious. The film chronicles the journey of figure skater Harley Windsor and his partner Katya Alexandrovskaya. Producers Blayke Hoffman and Jo-anne McGowan commented, “What a brilliant night for the Australian film and television industry.”
The 51st International Emmy Awards celebrated productions from nine countries. Germany took Best Drama for Netflix’s The Empress, while the UK and India tied in the Comedy category with Derry Girls and Vir Das: Landing, respectively.
This exceptional performance by Australian productions highlights the nation’s growing influence and excellence in the global television industry.
