‘Atlanta,’ ‘This is Us’ Lead Television Critics Association Awards Nominees

By Sameer Rao Jun 20, 2017

Two television series backed by Black screenwriters lead this year’s Television Critics Association (TCA) Awards nominations list, which was announced yesterday (June 19).

FX’s surrealist comedy "Atlanta" and NBC’s family drama "This Is Us" tied with Hulu’s dystopian thriller "The Handmaid’s Tale" with four nods each—the most of any individual programs represented. The TV journalists’ professional organization recognized "Atlanta" in the "Outstanding New Program," "Outstanding Achievement in Comedy" and "Program of the Year" categories, with an additional "Individual Achievement in Comedy" nod for star and creator Donald Glover.

"This Is Us" squares off against "Atlanta" in the "Program of the Year" and "Outstanding New Program" groups. It also earned an "Outstanding Achievement in Drama" nomination, and star Sterling K. Brown competes in the "Individual Achievement in Drama Category" against six White actresses.

"This was truly a landmark season for diversity in television, and the TCA nominations reflect this," TCA president Amber Dowling says in a statement. "Our members have chosen a variety of series that celebrate and represent a wide spectrum of performances."

TCA also nominated other programs from creators of color. Netflix’s "Master of None" faces "Atlanta" for "Outstanding Achievement in Comedy," while its auteur, Aziz Ansari, competes against Glover for "Individual Achievement in Comedy." "Insecure" creator Issa Rae also contends in the latter category.

The TCA Awards take place August 5. Follow them on the ceremony’s Twitter page