Emmy nominations 2024: A year of firsts for many actors

The 2024 Emmy nominations have brought a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent to the forefront. While many shows continue to dominate the list, this year has seen a significant number of first-time nominees, particularly in the acting categories. This shift highlights the evolving landscape of television and the emergence of new talent that is capturing the audience’s imagination.

Shōgun leads with 25 nominations

One of the standout series this year is Shōgun, which has garnered an impressive 25 nominations. This FX series has brought several actors into the Emmy spotlight for the first time. Among them are Anna Sawai (lead actress), Hiroyuki Sanada (lead actor), Tadanobu Asano (supporting actor), Takehiro Hira (supporting actor), and Néstor Carbonell (guest actor). Sanada’s nomination is particularly noteworthy, as he has been a prominent figure in both Japanese and international cinema for years.

Drama categories see new faces

In the lead actor in a drama category, The Crown star Dominic West has finally received his first Emmy nod. Despite his acclaimed roles in The Wire and The Affair, this is his first recognition by the TV academy. This category is further enriched by the inclusion of other first-time nominees, reflecting a broader appreciation for diverse performances.

Comedy and limited series categories welcome newcomers

The comedy lead actor category has also seen fresh talent being recognized. Matt Berry, known for his role as Laszlo Cravensworth in What We Do in the Shadows, and D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, who plays Bear in Reservation Dogs, have both earned their first nominations. In the limited series category, Richard Gadd for Baby Reindeer and Tom Hollander for Feud: Capote vs. the Swans have also been recognized for the first time.

Hollander’s co-star Naomi Watts has picked up her first nomination in the limited lead actress category for her role as Babe Paley, adding to the excitement in this category.

Supporting actors shine

The supporting acting categories are brimming with first-time nominees. In the supporting drama actress category, four out of seven nominees are newcomers: Greta Lee, Nicole Beharie, and Karen Pittman from The Morning Show, and Lesley Manville from The Crown. Similarly, the supporting drama actor category includes Tadanobu Asano and Takehiro Hira from Shōgun, and Jack Lowden from Slow Horses.

In the supporting comedy actor category, The Bear breakouts Liza Colón-Zayas and Lionel Boyce have earned their first nods, as has Paul Rudd for his role in Only Murders in the Building. It’s surprising that this is Rudd’s first Emmy nomination, given his long and successful career.

Limited series and anthology categories

The limited supporting actor category is also packed with new talent. Jonathan Bailey from Fellow Travelers, Tom Goodman-Hill from Baby Reindeer, John Hawkes from True Detective: Night Country, Lamorne Morris from Fargo, and Lewis Pullman from Lessons in Chemistry have all received their first nominations.

In the supporting actress category for limited series, Diane Lane is the only previous nominee. She will compete against Dakota Fanning from Ripley, Lily Gladstone from Under the Bridge, Jessica Gunning and Nava Mau from Baby Reindeer, Aja Naomi King from Lessons in Chemistry, and Kali Reis from True Detective: Night Country.

Guest actor and actress categories

Ryan Gosling has earned his first nomination in the comedy guest actor category for hosting Saturday Night Live. In the comedy guest actress category, Oscar-winner Da’Vine Joy Randolph has been recognized for her role in Only Murders in the Building. For guest spots in a drama, Tracy Letts has earned his first nod for Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers’ Dynasty, while Parker Posey has been nominated for Mr. & Mrs. Smith.

Comedy series lead actress category

Maya Rudolph, despite having 15 Emmy nominations, has received her first lead actress in a comedy series nod for her role in Loot. Selena Gomez has also landed her first acting nomination in this category for Only Murders in the Building. Previously, she had only earned producing nominations for the Hulu comedy series. Ayo Edebiri, who won last year for her supporting role in The Bear, is also a first-time nominee in the lead category.

Short-form comedy performers

While the Emmy for short-form comedy performers may not be as high-profile as other categories, it’s worth noting that two of the three nominees are first-timers: Mena Suvari for RZR and Eric André for The Eric Andre Show.

The 2024 Emmy nominations have certainly brought a wave of fresh talent to the forefront, reflecting the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of television. This year’s nominees showcase a diverse range of performances, promising an exciting awards season ahead.