The new Peacock series 'Ponies' stars Emilia Clarke and Haley Lu Richardson as widows of CIA operatives turned intelligence assets in the 1970s Soviet Union. Despite hour-long episodes typically associated with drama, the show is submitted for Emmy nominations as a comedy, reflecting its unique blend of humor and high-stakes espionage.
The series 'Ponies' challenges traditional television genre classifications by blending comedy with serious spy thriller elements, prompting discussion about Emmy category submissions and the evolving nature of television storytelling.
The Peacock series 'Ponies,' starring Emilia Clarke and Haley Lu Richardson, uniquely blends comedy with a gritty spy narrative set in the 1970s Soviet Union. The show features the widows of CIA operatives who become intelligence assets, navigating real danger and grief while maintaining a comedic tone. This tonal fusion has led to its submission for Emmy nominations in the comedy category, despite its hour-long episodes, a format typically reserved for dramas.
Showrunners Susanna Fogel and David Iserson, a writing couple, describe their approach as placing 'funny people in serious situations,' a style they have cultivated throughout their careers. Their previous collaboration, the 2018 film 'The Spy Who Dumped Me,' leaned more heavily into comedy, but 'Ponies' aims for a more grounded dramedy feel. Fogel also wrote for 'Booksmart' and 'The Flight Attendant,' while Iserson penned episodes for 'Mad Men' and 'Mr. Robot.'
Clarke and Richardson, chosen for their versatile acting skills, portray characters who undergo significant development. The show's grounded nature has prompted some viewers to search whether it is based on a true story. The article also touches upon the Emmy Awards' categorization, noting how hour-long shows like 'The Bear' have successfully competed as comedies, and referencing past hour-long comedy winners like 'Ally McBeal' and 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.' Showrunner Ira Parker suggests that the distinction between comedy and drama based on episode length might be outdated.
'Ponies' has not yet been renewed for a second season, but potential Emmy nominations could influence its future.