TCA Awards 2016: ‘Mr. Robot,’ ‘black-ish,’ ‘The Americans’ among winners

As we’re winding down this year’s edition of the Television Critics Association Summer Press Tour, this means that it’s time to hand down some awards! The following winners emerged through the pack at the ceremony this weekend, which is voted on by members of the association.

In general, we do think that critics have their fingers on the pulse of what is great and current about TV at the moment; we don’t necessarily agree with all of the choices, but at least they’re emphasizing quality over star power and giving new shows a chance.

Program of the Year – “The People v. OJ Simpson: American Crime Story.” No complaints here. It is so universally outstanding that it is almost boring to see it win.

Achievement in Drama – “The Americans.” We would have went with “The Leftovers,” but we cannot complain too much about the choice of a long-underrated show.

Achievement in Comedy – “black-ish.” We’re not sure that there is a better comedy on TV right now in terms of quality of laughs meeting quality of content. This is the show that Anthony Anderson deserved for so many years.

New Program – “Mr. Robot.” Given that it’s the favorite to win the Drama Series award at the Emmys, it’s hard to complain.

Achievement in Movies, Miniseries, and Specials – “The People v. OJ Simpson: American Crime Story.” We mostly feel sorry for “Fargo,” whose greatness is getting overlooked because of an even greater, once-every-few-years sort of product.

Individual Achievement in Drama – Sarah Paulson, “The People v. OJ Simpson: American Crime Story.” Critics love Paulson, and in this case it’s certainly merited.

Individual Achievement in Comedy – Rachel Bloom, “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.” It helps to make up for the completely baffling Emmy snub.

Achievement in News and Information – “Full Frontal with Samantha Bee.” It’s a great show, but we do think the TCA should consider not including comedy satires pieces alongside serious news shows. It just doesn’t fit.

Achievement in Reality Programming – “Making a Murderer.” If you disagree with this choice, we almost wonder if you either A) work on one of the other nominees or B) simply haven’t seen it.

What do you think of the winners? Share below.