FX's Noir Series 'The Lowdown' To Compete As Comedy At Emmys

The hourlong show starring Ethan Hawke will shift from drama to comedy category for awards consideration.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 2:04am

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FX has decided to submit its hourlong noir series 'The Lowdown' starring Ethan Hawke as a comedy for the 2025 Emmy Awards, a shift from its previous drama categorization. The decision was made after consultations with the show's creator Sterlin Harjo and star/executive producer Hawke, with FX determining the series' balance of drama and comedy elements leaned slightly more comedic.

Why it matters

The reclassification of 'The Lowdown' as a comedy for the Emmys is sure to draw attention and debate, as the categorization of hourlong series with both dramatic and comedic elements has long been a point of contention in awards season. This move follows a similar precedent set by FX's 'Reservation Dogs' and other acclaimed 'dramedy' shows that have competed in the comedy categories.

The details

Created by Sterlin Harjo, 'The Lowdown' follows the exploits of a Tulsa 'truthstorian' named Lee Raybon, played by Ethan Hawke. While the series was previously submitted as a drama for other awards, FX determined that the show's comedic sensibilities, influenced by Harjo's work on 'Reservation Dogs', ultimately outweighed the dramatic elements, leading to the decision to compete as a comedy at the Emmys.

  • In January 2026, FX renewed 'The Lowdown' for a second season.
  • The series was previously submitted as a drama for the 2025 Golden Globe Awards and guild honors.

The players

Sterlin Harjo

The creator and executive producer of 'The Lowdown', known for co-creating the comedy-drama series 'Reservation Dogs' for FX.

Ethan Hawke

The star and executive producer of 'The Lowdown', playing the lead role of the Tulsa 'truthstorian' Lee Raybon.

FX

The television network that airs 'The Lowdown' and has decided to submit the series as a comedy for the 2025 Emmy Awards.

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What’s next

The Academy will review FX's decision to submit 'The Lowdown' as a comedy for the 2025 Emmy Awards, as the TV Academy reserves the right to re-categorize shows if they do not meet the criteria for the comedy designation.

The takeaway

The reclassification of 'The Lowdown' as a comedy for the Emmys highlights the ongoing debate around how to properly categorize hourlong series that blend dramatic and comedic elements. This move follows a recent trend of 'dramedy' shows competing in the comedy categories, challenging traditional genre boundaries in awards season.