Fifteen-year-old Owen Cooper made history today by becoming the youngest male recipient of an Emmy award for acting. His remarkable achievement was for his starring role in the hit drama series “Adolescence,” which captivated audiences on the popular streaming platform Netflix earlier this year. During the award ceremony held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, Cooper expressed his astonishment at his journey from humble beginnings in Warrington, Cheshire, to receiving such a prestigious accolade. He encouraged others to step out of their comfort zones, emphasizing the importance of embracing new opportunities even if it leads to moments of embarrassment.
Portraying the character Jamie Miller in the Netflix miniseries, Cooper’s outstanding performance garnered critical acclaim. Notably, the talented young actor’s win marks him as the youngest male ever to clinch an acting Emmy, surpassing previous record-holder Roxana Zal, who won at the age of 14 in 1984.
In a heartfelt speech to the audience, Cooper reflected on his rapid rise in the industry, stating, “I was nothing about three years ago, and now here I am.” He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from his family, friends, and community back home. When asked how his friends would react to his win, Cooper humorously mentioned that they might still be asleep due to the early morning hour but would undoubtedly be thrilled upon hearing the news.
“Adolescence” marked Cooper’s debut television role, propelling him into the spotlight and opening doors to further opportunities. He has since landed roles in upcoming projects such as the BBC drama “Film Club” and an adaptation of “Wuthering Heights,” where he will portray the Young Heathcliff.
The Emmy Awards ceremony also saw other notable winners, including Seth Rogen, Jean Smart, and Katherine LaNasa, receiving accolades for their outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry. Additionally, the Apple TV series “The Studio” made history by setting a new record for most wins by a comedy in a single season, clinching a total of 12 awards, with Seth Rogen honored as Best Actor in a Comedy Series.
Following his win, Seth Rogen expressed his disbelief at the recognition, stating, “I could not wrap my head around this happening. I’ve never won anything in my life.” Rogen, who co-directs and stars in “The Studio,” a satirical comedy centered around a struggling film production company, shares the directing Emmy with his long-time collaborator Evan Goldberg.
Critics have lauded Rogen’s performance in “The Studio,” hailing it as his finest work to date. The satirical comedy has garnered praise for its sharp wit and insightful commentary on the film industry.