Barack Obama is now officially a three-time Emmy winner. The former US President picked up another trophy at the 76th Creative Arts Emmy Awards, held on September 7 in Los Angeles, though he was not there in person to collect it.
Obama earned the honor in the ‘Outstanding Narrator’ category for his work on Netflix’s documentary series ‘Our Oceans’. The award was accepted on his behalf by presenter and comedian Jordan Klepper.
‘Our Oceans’ is a five-part series that takes viewers across the world’s seas, uncovering mysteries and marvels hidden beneath the waves.
Released on November 20, 2024, the series was presented and narrated by Obama.
Each chapter focused on one of the five major oceans. Obama spoke about humpback whales in the Pacific, their long journeys across vast waters, and the struggles they face to survive. He also described how walruses in the Arctic are adapting, or struggling to adapt, to the effects of climate change.
The series touched upon the Indian, Southern, and Atlantic Oceans as well.
The episode centered on the Indian Ocean stood out as a highlight and, according to People magazine, played a big part in securing his latest Emmy.
The show’s creators, who previously worked with Obama on ‘Our Great National Parks’, used new underwater filming technology to capture breathtaking footage that wowed audiences and critics alike.
Obama was up against some of the most respected names in entertainment and natural history. Sir David Attenborough, known for his legendary work in nature documentaries, was nominated for ‘Planet Earth: Asia’.
Hollywood stars Idris Elba and Tom Hanks were also contenders, for ‘Erased: WW2’s Heroes Of Color’ and ‘The Americas’ respectively. Actress and writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge rounded out the list with ‘Octopus!’
This is not Obama’s first recognition in the world of television. He previously won Primetime Emmy Awards in 2022 and 2023. His first came from ‘Our Great National Parks’, another Netflix series where he explored the beauty and importance of protected natural spaces. The second was for ‘Working: What We Do All Day’, which looked at the lives of everyday workers.
Bd-pratidin English/ ANI