Netflix’s ‘The Perfect Couple’ Aims for Drama Awards

Here’s an unexpected delight from the world of the Emmys.

Netflix’s murder-mystery series, The Perfect Couple, which boasts a stellar performance by Nicole Kidman, is making waves with its Emmy submission. Contrary to the prevailing speculation that it would contend in the limited or anthology series categories, it is instead being put forward for consideration in the drama series category, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

This strategic decision arises from the fact that Elin Hilderbrand, the acclaimed author of the 2018 bestselling novel upon which the series is based, has penned additional works that could potentially inspire subsequent seasons. While Netflix remained reticent about the likelihood of further adaptations, they did confirm this genre choice for Emmy consideration.

The popularity of The Perfect Couple is undeniable, having dominated the top ten of Netflix’s global English-language TV offerings for six consecutive weeks. It achieved impressive milestones, breaking into the top 10 in 92 countries and amassing a staggering 75.1 million views from its premiere on September 5, 2024, through the end of the year, rendering it the platform’s second-most-watched title for the latter half of 2024.

Despite a mixed critical reception, reflected in a 65 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this shift to the drama series category could enhance Kidman’s prospects, given her status as a favored contender at the Emmy Awards. She has previously received nominations for her remarkable performances in both Hemingway & Gellhorn and Big Little Lies, the latter of which she won.

This move may also benefit her co-stars, such as Liev Schreiber, who earned the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Limited Series for his role, and Dakota Fanning, who received an Emmy nomination last year for her performance in Ripley.