Armenian American Filmmaker Steven Zaillian Wins Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for the Netflix Series 'Ripley'

At the 2024 Emmy Awards, renowned Armenian-American director Steven Zaillian won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. This honor was awarded for his work on Netflix’s Ripley, a series that has captivated audiences with its storytelling and visual mastery.

Zaillian’s acceptance speech was full of gratitude for the opportunity to bring “Ripley” to life in Italy, a country whose landscapes left a profound impact on him. "Making Ripley in Italy was its own reward. It was like a dream. I didn’t need anything after that," Zaillian said, expressing his appreciation for both the experience of filming in Italy and for the remarkable cast and crew who contributed to the show’s success. He humbly shared the award with the many individuals involved in the production.

He took the time to thank key members of the “Ripley” cast, including Andrew Scott, Dakota Fanning, Elliot Sumner, Johnny Flynn, and Maurizio Lombardi. Zaillian also gave a heartfelt nod to the numerous Italian actors and the team behind the scenes, including producers, department heads, and crew members. "They are all artists in their own right," he said, emphasizing the collaborative nature of filmmaking.

The Emmy Awards recognized “Ripley” with 13 nominations, including Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series. In addition to Zaillian’s win for directing, “Ripley” has already earned four other prestigious awards, including Outstanding Special Visual Effects in a Single Episode and Outstanding Sound Editing. Andrew Scott and Dakota Fanning received nominations for their powerful performances, further solidifying the show’s place as a standout in 2024 television.

Zaillian’s meticulous direction and the show’s exceptional production values have earned critical acclaim, making “Ripley” a notable achievement for both the filmmaker and Netflix. The series is an adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s “Tom Ripley” novels, and its success reflects the depth of Zaillian’s storytelling and his ability to bring complex characters and narratives to the screen.

Steven Zaillian's journey to becoming an award-winning filmmaker is one deeply connected to his heritage and his passion for storytelling. Born on January 30, 1953, in Fresno, California, Zaillian grew up in an Armenian-American family. His father, Robert Zaillian, was of Armenian descent, while his mother came from a Jewish background. This rich cultural blend has shaped his worldview and played a role in his creative pursuits.

Zaillian has spoken in interviews about how his Armenian heritage, in particular, has influenced him throughout his life. While he doesn’t always foreground Armenian themes in his work, his cultural background informs the way he approaches storytelling, particularly in exploring themes of identity, history, and human experience.

Zaillian’s career is notable not just for its longevity, but also for its breadth. He has worn many hats in the film industry, including those of screenwriter, director, and producer. His work often delves into complex and historically significant topics, as seen in films like “Schindler’s List”, for which he won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. His ability to handle weighty subjects with sensitivity and depth has earned him widespread recognition as one of the leading figures in contemporary cinema.

While Zaillian’s films do not frequently focus explicitly on Armenian themes, his heritage remains important to him. Over the years, he has been actively involved in supporting Armenian cultural initiatives and organizations. His advocacy for Armenian-American causes reflects his commitment to both his community and his heritage. Zaillian’s success in Hollywood has also helped shine a light on the contributions of artists from diverse backgrounds, including those of Armenian descent.

Despite his towering achievements in Hollywood, Steven Zaillian is known for maintaining a relatively low profile. Unlike many of his peers, he tends to shy away from the limelight, preferring to let his work speak for itself. This modesty is part of what makes his success all the more admirable. Zaillian’s approach to his craft is one of dedication, precision, and quiet excellence.

He studied English and creative writing at the University of California, Berkeley, where he developed the foundational skills that would later define his career in film. His education, combined with his personal background and passion for storytelling, has enabled him to carve out a unique space in the film industry, one where he can explore a wide range of themes, from historical dramas to psychological thrillers.