Toasting the Emmys...With Pimm's Cup

The generosity of the British knows no bounds. Not only does Hollywood owe them a debt of gratitude for supplying so many fine actors and programs to knock off—it must now give thanks for the Pimm’s Cup.

That delicious summer cocktail is nothing new, of course, but it was in great supply Saturday afternoon at the Intercontinental Hotel in Century City, where the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) held a pre-Primetime Emmys tea party.

Yes, there was tea and scones and clotted cream and finger sandwiches, even Champagne. But it was the Pimm’s Cup that charmed the B&C contingent.

That and Curb Your Enthusiasm’s Jeff Garlin, who affably held court for the British and U.S. nationals alike who gathered around him.

While we didn’t see best actor nominee Hugh Laurie or Bravo’s Tim Gunn (much to the disappointment of B&C Editor Ben Grossman’s better half), we caught a glimpse of multiple nominee Ricky Gervais and his writing partner Stephen Merchant. Sendhil Ramamurthy of Heroes was there, and producer Nigel Lythgoe seemed to be everywhere at once.

Representing the American team, Aaron Staton, Rich Sommer and Michael Gladis from Mad Men—who apparently really do hang out together like the junior ad execs they play on the show—joined the circle around Garlin.

But back to the Pimm’s Cup—tall, cool, with indeterminate alcoholic content. B&C Executive Editor Melissa Grego just had to get the recipe…on video. Which reminds me—I’ve heard Mel’s Diner may be re-opening soon. Odds are good that Pimm’s Cup will be on the menu.

By Joel Topcik