Emmys 2013: Julia Louis-Dreyfus wins best actress in a comedy

Julia Louis-Dreyfus won an Emmy for lead actress in a comedy series Sunday for her role as Selina Meyer, the fictional vice president of the United States on HBO’s series “Veep.”

She was the favorite for the win with a number of critics noting the new depth her character has reached this season. This is her second win in this category in as many years. She made Emmy history with last year’s win by becoming the first actor or actress to win lead or supporting comedy acting Emmys for three different shows (the others were “Seinfeld” and “The New Adventures of Old Christine”).

Her competition this year included heavy hitters Tina Fey (“30 Rock”), Lena Dunham (“Girls”), Edie Falco (“Nurse Jackie”), Laura Dern (“Enlightened”) and Amy Poehler (“Parks and Recreation”).

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Louis-Dreyfus, 52, began her career in comedy as a performer in Chicago’s Practical Theatre Company, and in 1985 went on to become a cast member of “Saturday Night Live.” She achieved massive success in 1989 when she was cast in the role of Elaine Benes on “Seinfeld,” which went on to become one of the most popular and successful sitcoms of all time.

“Veep,” a political satire that takes place in the office of the fictional vice president of the U.S., premiered on HBO in spring 2012. It got good ratings, and critics gave it a favorable reception. It also received Emmy nominations for comedy series for its first two seasons (2012 and 2013). The second season of “Veep” aired this spring, and in May HBO renewed the show for a third season.

Hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, the 65th Primetime Emmy Awards are being held at Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, and the show is airing live on CBS.