Before the actors’ and writers’ strike halted operations in Hollywood, television’s biggest night was initially scheduled to commence on Sept. 18, 2023. As the contest between workers and studio executives continues to play out –– with the WGA strike having just ended, and SAG-AFTRA meeting with studios on Monday –– the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards will now take place early next year. It’s the first time the show has been postponed since 2001, following the 9/11 attacks. Despite the delay, I wanted to share my predictions and offer recommendations. With the content train dying down, the current nominees will remain the best TV has to offer for the remainder of the year.
I want to preface that these predictions only consider the nominees announced in July. Only programs released from June 1, 2022 until May 31, 2023 are eligible. Additionally, though the ceremony comprises a vast array of awards in several categories, I’ll focus solely on the major awards, including top performances and top programs.
Outstanding Comedy Series — “The Bear”
Despite the recent success of fellow nominees “Ted Lasso”and “Abbott Elementary,” the tense and heartfelt “The Bear”is the new top comedy. Its tight-knit ensemble and impressive attention to detail outshine the rest of the stacked category.
Outstanding Drama Series — “Succession”
This year’s drama honors are not up for debate. “Succession”is not only the most outstanding drama series of the past year, but one of the greatest shows of all time. Its distinctly modern and aggressive writing style realizes the iconic Roy family — a bloodbath of finely tuned and expertly acted personalities. The fourth and final season is a suspenseful whirlwind of emotions with unexpected twists, poignant sibling dynamics and gripping resolutions.
Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series — “Beef”
“Beef”is a fresh, dark comedy from Netflix starring Steven Yeun and Ali Wong. What starts as an offbeat story about road rage slowly unwinds into a bleak and chaotic tale of madness and regret. The leads are hilarious and counter each other perfectly, culminating in a fantastic 10-episode run.
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series — Jeremy Allen White (“The Bear”)
White’s fiery performance showcases his range and brings the troubled Carmy Berzatto to life. It’s not a comedic performance by any means, but I don’t think that should cause any problems regarding voting. His victory at the Golden Globes and the Screen Actors Guild Awards solidified his odds for the top prize.
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series — Quinta Brunson (“Abbott Elementary”)
The breakout comedy series “Abbott Elementary”fully displays Brunson’s star powerand comedic voice. Her wins at the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards all but confirm another victory come January.
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series — Kieran Culkin (“Succession”)
This is the most competitive category, pitting on-screen brothers against each other. “Succession”stars Jeremy Strong and Kieran Culkin capture Kendall and Roman Roy with unforgettable line deliveries and butting, entitled personalities. I’ll honor Culkin this time around because Strong has won in this category before. His performance this season brought the unpredictable and increasingly vulnerable Roman to new heights.
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series — Sarah Snook (“Succession”)
Snook’s ferocious turn as Shiv Roy has yet to receive the awards recognition it deserves. This year is different. There’s no denying her monumental presence in TV’s most acclaimed show. Shiv’s complex relationships with her family and heartbreaking, inescapable marriage give Snook plenty of room to leave her mark — and she executes it perfectly.
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie — Evan Peters (“Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story”)
Despite the questionable and problematic nature of the limited series, Peters is still excellent as the infamous Jeffrey Dahmer. Although I’m pulling for Steven Yeun to capture this award, Peters’s previous wins make his Emmy consideration all the more likely.
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie — Jessica Chastain (“George & Tammy”)
Fresh off her Oscar win in 2022, Chastain is set for more success, portraying country music legend Tammy Wynette. Her win at the Screen Actors Guild Awards makes her a likely choice, though I strongly consider Ali Wong a contender. With such an impressive talent pool, the ceremony can’t come soon enough.
