The United Kingdom dominated the 2026 International Emmy nominations, securing 14 nods to lead all territories. Highlights include Disney+’s drama A Thousand Blows and Netflix’s comedy Man vs Baby. Brazil followed with nine nominations, and Spain secured five, according to the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.
Notably absent from the list was Bell Media/Crave’s Heated Rivalry, a Canadian production that gained significant attention earlier this year both domestically and in the U.S. via HBO Max. A Bell Media representative confirmed the series was submitted but did not make the final ballot. The show had been ineligible for the Television Academy’s Primetime Emmys because it was a Canadian commission without U.S. production partners, a status that rendered it eligible for International Emmy consideration but did not guarantee a nomination.
In the drama category alongside A Thousand Blows, nominees include France’s Carême, Argentina’s Menem, and India’s Real Kashmir Football Club. The comedy field features División Palermo — Season 2 from Argentina, Spain’s Old Dog, New Tricks, and India’s Vir Das: Fool Volume.
The Academy announced 64 nominees across 16 categories, representing 22 countries. “The International Emmy Awards are as competitive as ever, with an outstanding range of entries from around the world vying for a coveted nomination,” said International Academy president and CEO Bruce L. Paisner in a statement. “We look forward to bringing the global television community together to celebrate these exceptional programs and performances.”
The winners will be revealed at the 54th International Emmy Awards Gala in New York on Monday, November 23. This year’s entries span diverse nations including Argentina, Belgium, Chile, China, Germany, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, the Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, and Türkiye.
Does the International Academy prioritize sheer nomination numbers over diverse representation? Canada’s snub feels like a missed opportunity for global inclusion.
UK dominance is no surprise given their output volume. Though, Brazil with nine slots is a solid showing for South American cinema.
Really surprised Heated Rivalry missed out. It was everywhere this year and seemed like a strong contender for the ballot.