Father-son duo Dan and Eugene Levy are set to make history at the 2024 Emmy Awards as the first family team to host the prestigious event. Despite being newcomers to the hosting role, the beloved comedy pair from Schitt’s Creek are approaching the task with enthusiasm and charm.
Dan Levy, 41, shared with PEOPLE their vision for the show: “We’re not stand-up comics, so we’re coming at this from a different angle. But we’re both hard workers, and we’re determined to make it a great night. We want to create an atmosphere that feels welcoming and celebratory. This is a huge night for so many people, and we just want to make it as festive as possible.”
For Eugene, 77, the opportunity holds sentimental value. “As first-timers, our hope is to bring enough laughs, enough charm, enough goodwill, and enough love for the medium that gave both my son and me our start in this business,” he said.
The Levys are no strangers to the Emmys stage. Eugene has previously won two Emmys for SCTV Network 90 and two more for Schitt’s Creek. Dan, on the other hand, took home four Emmys for his work as a writer, director, supporting actor, and creator of the hit show.
Despite their experience, the duo isn’t looking to past Emmy hosts for inspiration. Instead, they’re relying on their comedic instincts. “We’re working with some very funny writers who get our sensibility,” Eugene noted. “And both Daniel and I have spent years writing comedy, so we’re in a good groove.”
While both are committed to making the night a success, they’re approaching the preparation in their own ways. Eugene humorously admitted that Dan is sending more notes. “My son is a perfectionist,” Eugene quipped. Dan playfully responded, “We’re sending equal amounts; he just doesn’t know how to work his email as well as I do.”
When it comes to their Emmy-night looks, the two are on different fashion paths. Dan revealed that he’s planning to switch up his outfits throughout the evening. “I told my dad I’d be changing suits, and he was like, ‘Have fun.’ I’ll be providing the costume changes, and he’ll be my rock.” Eugene, however, made it clear he won’t try to compete with Dan in the fashion department.
While there’s pressure in hosting an event as significant as the Emmys, both Dan and Eugene find comfort in knowing they’ll be up there together. “The big draw for me was knowing we have each other’s backs. We have great chemistry, which makes the process less intimidating,” Dan said. Eugene echoed the sentiment: “We worked so well as a team for six years on Schitt’s Creek, and that chemistry is something we hope to bring to the stage.”
As for managing nerves, Dan is taking a calm approach. “I’m a worrier, but I think overthinking would be the worst thing I could do. We’ll be prepared, and hopefully, we won’t have to worry.” Eugene, ever the comedian, added, “For me, it’s yoga and meditation before the big show. And if you believe that, you don’t know me very well.”
With their sharp wit, undeniable chemistry, and family bond, the Levys are sure to bring a unique and unforgettable energy to the 2024 Emmys.