The Greek capital recently played a pivotal role in the selection process for one of television’s most prestigious honors—the International Emmy Awards. On June 16, Athens hosted the semi-final judging round for the “Best Drama Series” category, marking another milestone in its emergence as a global hub for film and television production.
With the iconic Acropolis in the background and live music filling the rooftop of Athens’ City Hall, the city welcomed international attention for its contribution to the television industry. The event was organized by the Athens Film Office, under the Municipality of Athens’ development agency, which has been working to establish the city as a competitive destination for audiovisual production.
Athens: A Rising Power in Global Entertainment
“Athens is becoming a sought-after player on the international film and television stage,” stated Athens Mayor Haris Doukas during the event. He also revealed that the city will make history in January 2027 by becoming the first city in Southeastern Europe to host the European Film Awards ceremony.
This growing prominence is not accidental. According to Ioannis Georgizas, CEO of the City of Athens Development Agency, “Our collaboration with the Emmys is proof that Athens doesn’t follow trends—it sets them.”
The Athens Film Office has already supported over 450 productions, including films and series for major platforms and networks such as Netflix, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime, BBC, Discovery, and local broadcasters like Cosmote TV and MEGA. In just the past 18 months, Athens has hosted six major international productions, generating more than €35 million in spending and contributing significantly to the local economy.
Greek Industry Experts Help Judge Top TV Dramas
The Emmy semi-final judging took place at the St George Lycabettus Hotel, where a panel of respected Greek industry professionals evaluated submissions for the “Best Drama Series” category. This confidential process, guided by international standards, will determine one of the four finalists, with official nominations set to be announced in the fall by the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.
The jury included acclaimed Greek actors such as Markella Giannatou, Natalia Dragoumi, Joanna Kafatis, Diamantis Karanastasis, Antigone Kouloukakou, Dimitris Mothonaios, Lena Papaligoura, and Tonia Sotiropoulou. Also participating were screenwriters Giorgos Feidas and Penny Fylaktaki, director Christos Dimas, casting director Makis Gazis, filmmaker Vardis Marinakis, and Athina Gkioyiaka from the Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation (ERT).
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Emmy Awards
The 53rd International Emmy Awards ceremony will take place in New York City on November 24, 2025. The Athens semi-final round is part of a broader effort to promote cultural tourism and local creative industries, supported by EU co-financing through the Attica 2021–2027 program.
As Athens continues to attract international productions and host major cultural events, its role in shaping global storytelling is becoming increasingly significant. From judging Emmys to welcoming the European Film Awards, the city is proving that it’s not just a backdrop for great stories—it’s helping decide which ones get told.
