Israeli showrunner wins Golden Globe with ‘The Affair’

Hagai Levi, the Israeli creator of the Hebrew-language drama “BeTipul” and the producer of its US counterpart, “In Treatment,” was awarded a best television drama Golden Globe Sunday night for his latest series, “The Affair.”

Lead actress Ruth Wilson also earned a Golden Globe for her performance in “The Affair,” while actor Dominic West received a nomination for best lead actor, but did not win.

“The Affair” shows the effect that an extramarital relationship has on the two marriages involved, jumping back and forth between the past and the present.

It has been lauded by critics since its debut for its compelling parallel narrative structure, powerful writing and skilled acting.

In an interview with Army Radio Monday morning, Levi said his initial response to the announcement was “mostly surprise.”

“It was the last thing we expected,” he said. “We were all shocked.”

Levi, 41, created “The Affair” with producer and writer Sarah Treem, with whom he also worked on his first international hit, HBO’s “In Treatment.”

Levi, who lives in Tel Aviv, also manages Channel 2’s drama department.

He adopted a practical tone on the award, saying, “It makes it possible to do the projects that you really love.”

The Israeli film “Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem,” directed by Ronit and Shlomi Elkabetz, was nominated for a Best International Film award, but lost to the Russian film “Leviathan.”