The lead-up to this Sunday’s Emmy® Awards is in full swing, with the Television Academy kicking off a week of festivities with glitzy galas this past Saturday and Sunday, celebrating the entire TV season.
These black-tie affairs, a lavish combination of gourmet food, drinks, and star-studded mingling, are just the warm-up act for the big night this Sunday when the Emmy Awards will be broadcast on ABC. The Academy, as always, is set to recognize the masterminds behind some of television’s most gripping stories — and to reward them afterward with culinary creations served up by a brigade of celebrity chefs and event pros.
For three nights, a massive convention center is being transformed into a spectacle, welcoming nearly 7,000 of the industry’s biggest names — from actors and directors to executives and crew members who bring TV magic to life for millions of viewers around the globe.
At the heart of this transformation is Cheryl Cecchetto, the owner of Sequoia Productions, who has spent over 25 years masterminding these and countless other high-profile Hollywood celebrations. “The scale and complexity of these consecutive galas is mind-blowing,” Cecchetto shared. “We’re talking about 10,000 flowers, hundreds of lighting effects, and enough trussing to hang a rock concert’s worth of special effects.”
Nicole Demerse and David Hartle, the Television Academy Governors and co-chairs of the Governors Gala committee, paint an equally extravagant picture: “There are 500 chefs and over 800 servers offering specialty drinks and culinary treats inspired by television… something to dazzle every guest!”
A star-studded lineup of culinary talent is set to bring flavor and flair to the Emmy® Awards, serving up signature dishes and indulgent desserts to delight attendees:
Jet Tila, the dynamic L.A.-born chef and Food Network favorite, has made a name for himself by introducing Asian cuisine to a broader audience. Tila, also a successful restaurateur and author, has created popular concepts like Pei Wei, Dragon Tiger Noodle Co., and Modern Asian Kitchen. Known for holding six culinary Guinness World Records and his appearances on shows like Iron Chef America, he’s also the star of the Food Network series Ready Jet Cook. His latest cookbook, 101 Thai Dishes You Need to Cook Before You Die, continues to showcase his love for Thai flavors and culinary creativity.
Michael Voltaggio, a Top Chef champion, is celebrated for his bold, boundary-pushing style. Voltaggio is famous for his inventive takes on modern cuisine, such as octopus paired with buttered-popcorn puree and vegetables served in a coffee-cardamom “soil.” His career includes time at some of the most prestigious kitchens in the country, like The Bazaar by José Andrés in Los Angeles, and his current ventures include Voltaggio Brothers Steakhouse, Vulcania, and Volt Burger, where he continues to push culinary boundaries and surprise diners.
Brooke Williamson, winner of season 14 of Top Chef, brings her unique blend of nostalgia and California freshness to the table. Williamson draws inspiration from her Southern California roots and her love of gardening, which she credits with sparking her creativity in the kitchen. Known for her inventive dishes and her hands-on approach to sourcing ingredients, she has established herself as a culinary force with multiple restaurant ventures in the Los Angeles area.
Augusto Pasini is making history as the first Italian chef to showcase his talents at the Emmys’ after-party gala, thanks to a collaboration with Franciacorta, the Television Academy’s sparkling wine partner. As the head chef at Hill Colle restaurant in Franciacorta, Pasini has created a special dish that pays tribute to the rich culinary traditions of his region, offering guests a taste of Italian excellence paired perfectly with the area’s celebrated sparkling wines.
And of course, the evening wouldn’t be complete without the special libations provided by the Academy’s official partners for the 76th Emmy Awards season, ensuring that every sip is as memorable as the celebration itself.
Johnnie Walker Blended Scotch Whisky is raising a glass to television’s finest with a collection of three unique Johnnie Walker Blue Label cocktails, specially created by Charles Joly, a celebrated mixologist and winner of the Diageo Reserve World Class competition.
At the Franciacorta Bar, guests will enjoy an array of sparkling wine varietals while taking in a special celebration of Italian artistry, culture, and cuisine. Chef Augusto Pasini, featured at the Governors Gala, and acclaimed actress Miriam Leone, star of The Lions of Sicily on Disney+, will be on hand to showcase this connection.
During the 2024 Emmys season, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery will pour their signature wines — including the flagship ISOSCELES blend, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Rosé — at every major event leading up to the Emmy Awards. After the live broadcast, JUSTIN will welcome winners to the exclusive Winners Circle at the Governors Gala, where they can toast with ISOSCELES while waiting for their Emmy statuettes to be engraved. Each winner will also take home a personalized bottle of the 2021 JUSTIN ISOSCELES as a keepsake of their triumph.
FIJI Water is once again the go-to hydration partner for the Emmys, marking its 11th year in a row at the awards. Guests will find FIJI Water’s signature bar on the red carpet, where they can grab bottles made from 100% recycled materials, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
As the official hotel partner, The Ritz-Carlton is bringing Emmy glamour to life with a series of pre-show experiences at The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles. Guests can capture their red carpet moment with a stylish photo op in the lobby or get up close with real Emmy statuettes, a treat reserved for Club Level attendees. On the actual Emmys red carpet, The Ritz-Carlton is providing a touch-up station and little moments of joy before guests head inside. Winners will also get a chance to share their excitement and reflections on the “WinnerView” cam, courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, backstage.