2016 Emmy Nominations Predictions

1.

Last year's winner has been a perennial nominee here for the last five years. The show is as captivating as ever.

2.

If House of Cards was able to make the cut for it's hugely disappointing third season, then it would be incredibly surprising not to see it in for it's hugely resurgent fourth.

3.

Downton Abbey has manged to be nominated for every season it's been on the air (it won Best Miniseries for it's 1st). With it's 6th season being it's final one, I'd say the TV Academy stays with it for one more year.

4.

Nominated last year, Better Call Saul had another excellent season this year. AMC has always had a strong presence here (it's won six times), and with this being their only real contender this year, expect a major push.

5.

Winning top prize at both the Golden Globes and Critics' Choice Awards, and gaining a mountain of critic traction, Mr. Robot looks poised to be this category's traditional first-season wonder.

6.

The last few spots here really look like a toss up. There are about ten or eleven viable candidates that could take six and/or seven. At #6, I'll take Homeland; it made it back into this category after falling out of favor for it's third season. Show's that are able to recover after falling off usually have a fair amount of love and while it's fifth year wasn't really it's finest, it was reasonably well liked and incredibly timely.

7.

While many saw the third season as a step back, there's still a lot of love out there for Orange is the New Black, and Netflix has been a real presence over the past few years. Plus, the Emmy's have always been pretty weird about how long they'll hold onto a show; even when it isn't really "Best" material any more.

Other Possibilities

8.

The Americans has been a critical darling for years, and is presently the best reviewed show on television. If they decide to go for sheer quality (as that's what the category is about), then many voters could be swayed.

9.

Vinyl had a pretty muted response to it's first season, but it's got HBO backing it and the pedigree is insane (Scorsese, Jagger, Winter). If it gets the push, then it could surprise.

10.

The Leftovers is an incredibly divisive show, but it's Second season was strong enough to win over numerous people who bashed it's first. Sometimes, small show's are able to piggyback off of critical support, and that could happen here. And it also doesn't hurt that it's an HBO series.

11.

It would appear that in it's one year absence, Bloodline has developed something of a following. After being barely noticed in it's first season, there have been numerous stories (and critical reappraisals) concerning the second. If the show manages to tops it's slow burn first season, it may surprise here.

12.

Hulu's first legitimate contender here isn't the most well known, but's developed throughout it's first season as one of the most absorbing and complex series on television. Having an Emmy friendly lead like Aaron Paul (three time winner for Breaking Bad) certainly helps, but Hulu will have to mount a hell of a campaign to make it break through the pack.

13.

Outlander has been growing a steady critical fanbase over the past few years, and the series ratings are the best that they've ever been. It scored three Golden Globe nominations earlier this year, and the Emmy's appear to have come on board with period-fantasy (i.e. Game of Thrones). It's a dark horse, but it could do damage if enough voters see it.

14.

1.

Last year's winner continues to impress critics, and is quite timely.

2.

Another well received season for Transparent, one of last year's big breakouts. I can't see it missing.

3.

Never count out a five time winner. Even with the series drawing no real press this year, it's still got a lot of fans inside the TV Academy.

4.

Silicon Valley continues to get a lot of praise, and is one of the smartest satires of the moment. After two surprise nods, I think it's time to stop being surprised.

5.

Made the cut last year, and was received even more positively this year. With Netflix behind those stats, I doubt that it'll miss.

6.

Like the drama category, there appears to be about five or so locks, and two that are up in the air. With six, I'll take Black-ish; last year it surprised many by making it in any categories at all (a Best Actor nod). The critics were even kinder in the show's sophomore season, and it was very timely in it's discussions about race (the n-word, legal system, etc.). ABC has had a knack for getting it's family series noticed, and I think they'll do it again this time.

7.

Master of None was a breakout success for Netflix, and a critical smash. It like Black-ish has modern racial issues on it's mind, and could benefit from it. It also recently took home the Critics' Choice Award for Best Comedy, and only once has the winner of that award not made the cut (Community in 2012).

Other Possibilities

8.

Four time nominee was ousted last year by Park and Recreation's swan song. Could the free space go to a former perennial nominee?

9.

Recent Golden Globe winner that has a booming backer.

10.

Girls had what many saw as a comeback season this year, and could benefit from that and HBO's brand success.

11.

12.

13.

1.

ACS had an incredibly well-reviewed opening season, with praise given for every aspect of the show. There's no way that this doesn't get nominated, and it looks like a strong bet to win.

2.

Or will Fargo go 2/2? It had another critically acclaimed season (even more so than the first) and Emmy voters tend to reward winners more than once.

3.

While it gets poor ratings, the critics love it, and American Crime's second season was just as acclaimed as its first.

4.

The original Roots scored a record 37 nominations, and is one of the most beloved miniseries ever made. While it'll likely be too tough to compete with the original, if it's good enough it probably make it in. The History Channel has a solid record here, and the subject matter alone should propel it to a nod.

5.

While barely anyone watched it, Show Me a Hero got strong reviews, and HBO is a beast in this category.

6.

Strong reviews and a noteworthy cast should put it on the radar and AMC, with the only other show in it's stable being Better Call Saul, should put on a strong campaign.

Other Possibilities

7.

AHS had yet another bad season, but it's been able to make the cut for the last for years, so anything's possible.

8.

A British, period, literary adaptation checks some big boxes for this category, but will it be able to stick out in the most competitive year that this category has had in years? I'm not sure.

9.

Season 2 of True Detective got scathing reviews, but HBO is such a powerful awards presence that I wouldn't be surprised if they managed to get it in.

10.

11.

12.

1.

HBO owns this category, and this is the most prestigious of their two possibilities this year. Plus, both of Jay Roach's past two HBO flicks (Recount, Game Change) won here, and it's getting strong critical support.

2.

Another HBO flick, another lock.

3.

The Abominable Bride wasn't met with the warmest reviews, but the TV Academy loves Sherlock (not to mention how slim this category is) so it'll probably be here. Not so sure about it's overall nominations chances.

4.

Because it's runtime was so short, Luther can compete here this time out. The series has always done pretty well here, and with few genuine offering here, it should make it in.

5.

I'm gonna guess that anyone reading this probably hasn't heard of this film. You're not alone; I was left scratching my head after I saw the title on so many lists. The Dresser is a BBC production that will be airing on Starz, starring Anthony Hopkins and Ian McKellen. Those two names were pretty much enough to sway me in this weak category.

Other Possibilities

6.

It's really more of a special than a movie, but A Very Murray Christmas got decent reviews, and Netflix's brand is strong. It could sneak in.

7.

Special Correspondents got awful reviews, but the Emmy's love Ricky Gervais and, like I said above, Netflix is strong. Let's also remember that this is the category that nominated Grace of Monaco, so good taste really doesn't matter as much as a great awards campaign.

8.

9.

Pretty please, make this happen Emmys.

1.

This was Key & Peele's final season, so it should be a lock.

2.

Inside Amy Schumer's fourth season has been as something of a disappointment thus far, but I can't see it not being nominated.

3.

Despite the hideousness of the Donald Trump episode, Saturday Night Live will likely be here.

4.

5.

Mr. Show's legacy and respect and solid reviews for this iteration, should be enough to make the cut in such a slim category.

Other Possibilities

6.

Really. I mean, this is pretty much it. Drunk History is the only other thing that I could actually see making the category.

1.

With The Colbert Show and The Daily Show with John Stewart out of the running, this year could indicate this category's new king (or queen, in this year's case). Out of this year's bunch, Oliver's is the most acclaimed and captures the cultural zeitgeist more often, so it guaranteed a nomination, and likely even a win.

2.

While Colbert's The Late Show hasn't necessarily gelled yet, it's still a solid hour, and should likely get in on Colbert's name alone.

3.

4.

5.

Missed last year, but should make the cut in a pretty depleted year.

6.

Full Frontal has come swinging out of the gate, and Bee's incisively biting humor make it a must see.

Other Possibilities

7.

Won the category last year with Jon Stewart, but Noah's tenure hasn't been met with a lot of acclaim. It could make it in, but I think it'll likely sit this year out.

8.

9.

10.

1.

Kevin Spacey- House of Cards
With the three men who previously won this category gone (Daniels, Cranston, Hamm), Spacey looks to potentially take his first win here.

2.

Bob Odenkirk- Better Call Saul
Lock.

3.

Rami Malek- Mr. Robot
Mr. Robot looks to be this year's Emmy breakout, and Malek's performance has a lot to do with that. He'll likely make the cut, and has a great shot at winning.

4.

Kyle Chandler- Bloodline
Chandler was able to make the cut in a packed category last year, and with a, likely, more pivotal role in the show's second season, could sneak in again. Netflix is always pretty strong when it comes to getting it's actors nominated, and Chandler appears to be one of the voters' favorites.

5.

Bobby Cannavale- Vinyl
The show wasn't that warmly received, but Cannavale was always strong, and he's an Emmy favorite (he's won two and is frequently nominated).

6.

Aaron Paul- The Path
The show is small and untested with awards season, but Paul is a favorite with the TV Academy (he won three for Breaking Bad) and in a category as scattered as this one, I think it'll give him the edge.

Other Possibilities

7.

Liev Schreiber- Ray Donovan
Surprise nominee last year had another strong season, but I'm not sure the show has enough momentum to get him in (though, to be fair, I thought the same last year).

8.

Paul Giamatti- Billions

9.

Damien Lewis- Billions

10.

Matthew Rhys- The Americans

11.

Wagner Moura- Narcos

12.

Justin Theroux- The Leftovers

1.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus- Veep
She's won four in a row, and the show is still in the driver's seat.

2.

Ellie Kemper- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
With three spots from open from last year (Falco, Kudrow, Poehler) this category is gonna be pretty up in the air until nomination morning. Kemper seems the most likely to benefit from this; she was likely last year's biggest snub, and Kimmy Schmidt has really gained a lot of critical traction.

3.

Amy Schumer- Inside Amy Schumer
After last year's breakout, Schumer is a genuine star. That should be enough to get her in here, though the indifference towards the show's most recent season could be a problem.

4.

Lily Tomlin- Grace and Frankie
This is a category where holdovers don't necessarily do very, and, of last year's nominees, Tomlin seems the most at risk to lose her spot; her show isn't the biggest (it really has gotten no hype this year) and the reviews aren't astounding. Tomlin's a legend though, and I think a lot of voters will see her name and go with the flow.

5.

Rachel Bloom- Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend isn't the most successful show, but the critics have been incredibly supportive. That likely helped Bloom win both the Golden Globe and Critics' Choice Award, a feat that hadn't previously achieved (Critics' Choice only goes back to 2011, but still). I think her momentum will carry over here.

6.

Tracee Ellis Ross- Black-ish
The sixth spot is a tough one, but I taking a dark horse and going with Ross here. Black-ish was met with a bundle of acclaim in it's second season, as was Ross's performance. Another factor to take note of; an African-American woman has not been nominated here since the 1980s, and with the added scrutiny on Awards Shows to have a more diverse roster of nominees, that could certainly help voters broaden there views.

Other Possibilities

7.

Gina Rodriguez- Jane the Virgin
She's a strong bet here but if she couldn't make it into the category when here show was on the radar, then I really don't see it happening now that the show isn't the hottest.

8.

Aya Cash- You're the Worst
Cash got stellar reviews for her work on You're the Worst this season; balancing comedy with clinical depression. The quality is there, but the show is so under the radar that I just don't see her rising above many of the more well-known actresses here (but at #8, I know that I could be wrong).

9.

Melissa McCarthy- Mike & Molly
She's a star who once won this category and her show just ended. The show essentially went out with a whimper, but she's well liked so it could happen.

10.

Lena Dunham- Girls

11.

Constance Wu- Fresh Off the Boat

12.

Rashida Jones- Angie Tribeca

1.

Bryan Cranston- All the Way
The question isn't whether or not he'll be nominated (he will), it's whether he'll win.

2.

Courtney B. Vance- The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story
Vance pretty much owned every scene he had as Johnnie Cochran, and it would be shocking if he didn't make the cut here.

3.

Idris Elba- Luther
He's been nominated for the show's first three seasons, and his star-power has grown considerably.

4.

Oscar Isaac- Show Me a Hero
While the Golden Globes and Emmys don't match up that often, the GGs have a hell of a record with this category; only twice has the Globe winner not at least been nominated here (and one year was a tie, and the second winner got an Emmy nod). Aside from that, Isaac appears to finally be breaking out and that type of momentum (as well as critical acclaim) should carry him into the category.

5.

Benedict Cumberbatch- Sherlock: The Abominable Bride
The Abominable Bride was greeted by a mixed response, but Cumberbatch is a star and a previous winner here. I think he'll make it in but with a category this crowded, I wouldn't be surprised either way.

6.

Ian McKellen- The Dresser
So many possibilities here, but I'm going with McKellen at #6. This is a category that frequently awards veteran actors with a lot of respect behind them. It's a guess really, but I think it's probable (though they could go with The Dresser's other lead actor.

Other Possibilities

7.

Patrick Wilson- Fargo
Wilson did strong work this season on Fargo, and has received both Critics' Choice and Golden Globe nominations for his work. He was, however, not against many of the men above in January (when those awards happened). As it is, while I could definitely see him getting nominated (this category could go to seven, or even eight, nominees), I think his work was often too overshadowed by more eccentric costars to stand out.

8.

Anthony Hopkins- The Dresser
Everything I said at #6 pretty much applies here.

9.

Tom Hiddleston- The Night Manager

10.

Malachi Kirby- Roots

11.

Colin Farrell- True Detective

12.

Paul Dano- War & Peace

1.

Viola Davis- How to Get Away with Murder
She won, and made history, last year and is still highly respected. Total lock.

2.

Robin Wright- House of Cards
Wright had another excellent season, and the show itself had a creative uptick. I really don't see her missing.

3.

Claire Danes- Homeland
Two time winner and four time nominee, Danes is still a powerhouse on Homeland and the show seems to still be in favor. It would be a shocker to see her snubbed.

4.

Julianna Margulies- The Good Wife
She missed the cut last year and this year is just as crowded, but with this being the final season of The Good Wife, I think they'll give her a goodbye nod.

5.

Taraji P. Henson- Empire
Henson was still excellent in the show's second season, but the series really took a nosedive in quality in it's second season and Henson's character suffered for it. While I still think she'll make it in, she's nowhere near the lock that she was last season.

6.

Michelle Dockery- Downton Abbey
This one is really a guess, but I think the Emmy's will be sweet on Downton for it's last season. Dockery managed to get three nods before missing last year, so she's on their map and this category is so packed that a smaller pick to do some damage if a few voters were passionate about it.

Other Possibilities

7.

Tatiana Maslany- Orphan Black
Maslany likely does more work than any performer on this list and would be wholly deserving of a nod (and even a win), but I'm just not sold on lightning striking twice here. She was such a nice surprise last year, but surprises in this category rarely go the distance. She could very well get nominated, but I've just got a feeling that she won't.

8.

Caitriona Balfe- Outlander
Outlander seems to have made an impact on viewers and critics, and Balfe's lead turn has a lot to do with that. It's strong work that could surprise here.

9.

Eva Green- Penny Dreadful
She got Golden Globe and Critics' Choice nominations, and consistently owns the whole series. She's a long shot though, and the show doesn't really appear to be on any awards radar. Though, if she were to get in, I think she's the only one of the "Other Possibilities" that could win.

10.

Krysten Ritter- Jessica Jones

11.

Vera Farmiga- Bates Motel

12.

Carrie Coon- The Leftovers

1.

Jeffrey Tambor- Transparent
This category has a strong holdover rate, and Tambor is still getting excellent notices. He'll probably win again.

2.

William H. Macy- Shameless
He's got two straight nods, he's a showtime lead, and he's a respected character actor. He should be safe.

3.

Anthony Anderson- Black-ish
His making the cut last year was seen as something of a surprise. Black-ish was seen by many as having an improved second season and, in a category as seemingly light as this one is this year, that's enough for me.

4.

Aziz Ansari- Master of None
Ansari's Master of None was a breakout critical success, and his lead performance drew a lot of praise. He got both Critics' Choice and Golden Globe nods (Netflix is strong at getting it's performers nominated), and seems poised to get his first Emmy nod this year.

5.

Jim Parsons- The Big Bang Theory
He shockingly missed last year, but I think that that was something of a fluke; this category desperately needed some new blood last year, and Parsons domination likely annoyed several voters. This year, this category seems much more light, and passionate voters likely won't work as hard to keep him out.

6.

Don Cheadle- House of Lies
There are a lot of possibilities at #6, but I have a got gut feeling Cheadle will get one last nod for House of Lies (it's been cancelled). I'm not sure many know it's still on, or have even heard of it, but he's managed to make the cut the last four times and Showtime has been excellent with this category. But...

Other Possibilities

7.

Gael García Bernal- Mozart in the Jungle
Bernal surprisingly won a Golden Globe last year, and is highly listed on many of the predictions that I've looked at, but I'm not ready to jump on the bandwagon just yet. I just think that if he, or the show, where going to burst onto the scene here, they would've done it for the series first season (a season for which the series received zero nominations). I have no doubt that Amazon will pull out the stops promoting it, and the Golden Globes have an okay record predicting nominees here, but I'm just not sure it can be an "out-of-nowhere" breakout (I'll contradict myself by saying that I could actually see it happening, but I've just got a gut feeling).

8.

Will Forte- The Last Man on Earth
Forte has a lot of admirers, but with the show moving past him actually being the last person on Earth, I think the appeal of the central premise (which likely helped him get that nod last year) has been lost. Still, he's got a lot going for him (that beautiful haircut especially) and could make it in.

9.

Thomas Middleditch- Silicon Valley
Despite being a multiple nominee, Silicon Valley has yet to score an acting nod. While it's most likely shot here looks to be in supporting categories, Middleditch is the anchor for the whole show, and has continued to do strong work in the show's third season. If the show really breaks out this year, he could benefit.

10.

Rob Lowe- The Grinder
The Grinder may have been cancelled, but Lowe's work as an actor with an inability to distinguish between television and reality may be meta enough to sway actors, the largest voting body. Could we get one last grind?

11.

Patrick Stewart- Blunt Talk

12.

Rob Delaney- Catastrophe

1.

Sarah Paulson- The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story
Paulson has been nominated for an Emmy for the past four years (Game Change in 2012, American Horror Story 2013-2015), but none of those roles have received the reviews that she got for ACS. She looks like the favorite at the moment.

2.

Kirsten Dunst- Fargo
Fargo got a lot of love this year, with Dunst's performance, arguably, getting the most praise among the excellent cast. She'll be in.

3.

Kerry Washington- Confirmation
Washington is well liked and it's the type of history-based film that screams for awards. Plus, like most categories, HBO has an excellent track record here.

4.

Felicity Huffman- American Crime
After the first three spots, #4-#6 are pretty up in the air. Essentially, because this category is always pretty wonky, I'm taking Huffman because she was here last year, she's won before, and the show (and her performance) was exceptionally well received.

5.

Audra McDonald- Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill
McDonald is a highly respected actress who previously won a Tony award for the play that this film is based on. With HBO backing her, I think she'll be able to make the cut in a relatively weak year.

6.

Rachel McAdams- True Detective
True Detective Season 2 was seen as a major disappointment, but McAdams was predominantly praised as the best part of the series. That, aided by HBO backing and her recent Oscar nomination, could help her make the final six.

Other Possibilities

7.

Lady Gaga- American Horror Story: Hotel
Despite pretty mixed reviews for her performance, Gaga was able to win a Golden Globe for her work. The Globes actually have a pretty high match-up rate with the Emmys, with only five GG winners failing to be nominated here. Also of note is the fact the AHS has never missed this category. However, AHS's previous nominees (Connie Britton, Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson) are much more prominent fixtures on the Emmy circuit, and the Globes are notorious for giving awards to the most famous nominee rather than the most deserving. It could happen, but I'm just to hesitant to add her to the six above.

8.

Sarah Hay- Flesh & Bone
Despite the series not gaining much traction, Hay received both a Golden Globe and Critics' Choice nomination. In a category as slim as this one, that apparent enthusiasm could be enough to sway voters.

9.

Anika Noni Rose- Roots

10.

Lili Taylor- American Crime

11.

Lily James- War & Peace

12.

Riley Keough- The Girlfriend Experience

1.

Allison Janney- Mom
She's won the last two, and is a six-time winner overall. It would be the shock of the year if she's left out.

2.

Anna Chlumsky- Veep
Veep is still on a hot streak, and Chlumsky's been nominated since the show's second season. Highly likely.

3.

Jane Krakowski- Unbreakble Kimmy Schmidt
Krakowski had more of a substantive year on Kimmy Schmidt, and she's a perenial nominee in this category (she's got five). Her character's storylines involving Native Americans may hurt her, but if she could make it in last year, I think she'll be able to do it again for a better season.

4.

Julie Bowen- Modern Family
After six straight nominations, and two wins, I think Bowen will likely stay here for the entirety of Modern Family's run. The show has fallen off over the past couple seasons though and, while think a nod is probable, she could missed to one of the several women in newer and catchier series.

5.

Mayim Bialik- The Big Bang Theory
Bialik managed to stay in this category last year despite the series falling off the Emmy's radar. With the show (seemingly) having a better shot this year, and a beefier character arc for her this past season, I think she'll make it in.

6.

Kate McKinnon- Saturday Night Live
McKinnon is still SNL's MVP, and she'll have a lot of press from her upcoming role in Ghostbusters. Still, this category is packed with potential, and SNL had an even more mixed season than usual. I think she'll make, but I wouldn't be surprised to see her left out.

7.

Judith Light- Transparent
This category has gone passed six two of the passed three years, so I've just got a feeling that it'll be larger again. I predicted Light last year and she didn't get in, so I thought pretty hard about this one. From all I've read about the series however, it would appear that she had a stronger and more prominent season this year. I'm sure that this series will feature into this category somehow (it's got three genuine opportunities), but I'm just going on a hunch, so...

Other Possibilities

8.

Niecy Nash- Getting On
Nash was likely the biggest surprise of last year's Emmys, and could very well make the cut again. Being in such an obscure show and still somehow getting in, she's clearly got a lot of respect, and HBO backing is helpful to any performer. While I'm not sold she can make it in this year, I could definitely see it.

9.

Gaby Hoffman- Transparent
She made it in last year, and had another acclaimed season this year (though not as much as last season). Could definitely make it in.

10.

Amy Landecker- Transparent

11.

Carol Kane- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt

12.

Amanda Peet- Togetherness

1.

Sterling K. Brown- The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story
As the season went on, Brown became the series breakout star, essentially acting as the show's conscience. There are some big names here, but Brown looks to be safe.

2.

Jesse Plemons- Fargo
Plemons, like pretty much the entire Fargo Season 2 cast, got excellent notices and won the Critics' Choice Award earlier this year; an award that has netted the previous three winners Emmy nods. While Fargo has at least five guys who could make it here, Plemons role was arguably the most substantial, and that usually wins out.

3.

Hugh Laurie- The Night Manager
After the first two, this category gets pretty packed (and even those two aren't locks). Laurie seems like as good a guess as any; He was nominated six times for House without ever winning, so he's due to win, The Night Manager was a hit and British, and his villainous turn was the type of scene-stealer that this category was made for.

4.

John Travolta- The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story
His performance drew fairly mixed reviews, but he's a fairly prominent presence in the early goings of the series. Plus he's an oscar-nominated star in what looks to be an Emmy juggernaut. I think those credentials, as well as those beautiful eyebrows, will be enough to sway voters.

5.

Bokeem Woodbine- Fargo
These last two are a little out of left field, so I wouldn't necessarily follow me if you want perfect predictions. I'm going with Woodbine at #5 largely because this is a category for scene-stealers, and he was Fargo's best scene-stealer this season. This category is also great at out-of-leftfield picks, and Woodbine beating several other more notable performers would certainly fit that bill.

6.

Denis O'Hare- American Horror Story: Hotel
O'Hare is clearly well-like by the TV Academy; he's been nominated for the show twice, including last year for a season where had had largely nothing to do. This season however, he was essentially the series main character and, arguably, the best performer. AHS has only missed in this category once (for Coven, which largely went without speaking parts for males) and O'Hare's character, a transgender female with a diva-ish personality, is right up the Emmys' alley.

Other Possibilities

7.

Wendell Pierce- Confirmation

8.

Anthony Mackie- All the Way

9.

Martin Freeman- Sherlock: The Abominable Bride

10.

Ted Danson- Fargo

11.

Forrest Whitaker- Roots

12.

Nick Offerman- Fargo

1.

Uzo Aduba- Orange is the New Black
She's won for playing the same category two years in a row (once for Guest Actress/Comedy, but still...) and has been picking up numerous other accolades along the way. I'm not sure that she'll win this year, she really doesn't have many BIG moments in the show's third season, but it would be a surprise not to see her nominated.

2.

Lena Headey- Game of Thrones
Headey's been nominated for the past two seasons and is still doing strong work on Game of Thrones, the most buzz-worthy show on television.

3.

Christine Baranski- The Good Wife
She's been nominated for all six seasons of The Good Wife, and it would be a surprise to see her fall in it's final one.

4.

Maggie Smith- Downton Abbey
She missed last season, but I think she'll be in for the series final outing. Her legendary status, and sentimentality surrounding the series end should, (again) I think, carry her into the final six.

5.

Regina King- The Leftovers
The Leftovers had, pretty much, the finest roster of female performers this season. There are at least three or four other women that could make it in here, but I'm going with my gut and picking King. She's on their radar, she won last year for American Crime, and she's got one hell of a standout episode with "Lens".

6.

Sophie Turner- Game of Thrones
This one is my out-of-leftfield pick for this category. In a season that's been marked by the strength of it's female characters, no character has grown more this season that Sansa, and Turner's performance has reflected it. It's always tough for newcomers to break into a category, but I have a feeling that that'll be different this year.

Other Possibilities

7.

Emilia Clarke- Game of Thrones
She's got two nominations, but Clarke hasn't had all that much to work with this season. Though that hasn't stopped performers from getting nominated in the past, I just think that this category is just too competitive this year.

8.

Constance Zimmer- UnReal

9.

Joanne Froggatt- Downton Abbey

10.

Maggie Siff- Billions

11.

Rhea Seehorn- Better Call Saul

12.

Maisie Williams- Game of Thrones

1.

Tony Hale- Veep
He's won two of the last three, and is on the Emmy's favorite comedy. I'm not sure if he can win (he hasn't had that much material to work with this season) but he should be a lock for a nomination.

2.

Ty Burrell- Modern Family
He's been nominated six straight years and won twice. It would be shocking to see him left out.

3.

Tituss Burgess- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
Burgess had an even better second season than his nominated first one. He'll be in.

4.

Andre Braugher- Brooklyn Nine-Nine
He's a TV Academy favorite who is still doing strong work on his show. It could go either way, but I see him getting in again.

5.

Adam Driver- Girls
After essentially being a surprise nominee for the past three years, I'm inclined to being that Driver has a strong fanbase here; one that's likely grown with his recent inclusion into the Star Wars franchise.

6.

T.J. Miller- Silicon Valley
It's somewhat bizarre that Silicon Valley has done so well at the Emmys over the past two years and not received any acting nominations. I think that'll change this year, and Miller seems the most likely to do it. The show has an excellent ensemble, but Miller usually shines brightest when he gets some asinine proclamations to chew on. This is stacked category though...

Other Possibilities

7.

Louie Anderson- Baskets
Anderson seems to have made a real impression on critics and Emmy prognosticators (he was in most of the other nominations that I read), but I'm just not sold that Baskets is going to be much of an awards player. It's the type of showcase role (a man playing a woman) that'll likely garner some attention, but I'm not entirely sure if many voters have seen, or even heard of the series.

8.

Hugh Laurie- Veep

9.

Keegan-Michael Key- Key & Peele

10.

Laurence Fishburne- Black-ish

11.

Jordan Peele- Key & Peele

12.

Timothy Simons- Veep

1.

Melissa Leo- All the Way
While her role wasn't that substantive, Leo did solid work in, what looks to be, HBO's big bet in these categories. I'd say she'll be in.

2.

Jean Smart- Fargo
As the matriarch of the Gerhardt clan, Smart chewed into a commanding character and got stellar reviews. She's already won the Critics' Choice Award, and seems like a solid bet to repeat here.

3.

Regina King- American Crime
She didn't have the same level of material to work with in American Crime's second season, but she still did strong work and she won here last year. She's no lock (the top two seem to be the only locks in this category), but King looks good to at least be nominated.

4.

Olivia Colman- The Night Manager
Even with two powerhouse lead performances from Hiddleston and Laurie, Colman still managed to own any scene she was in. She's been snubbed in the past for various performances, I think that'll be rectified this year.

5.

Cristin Milioti- Fargo
She seems to be a bit of a dark horse, but Milioti did some subtle and affecting work in the series' second season.

6.

Kathy Bates- American Horror Story: Hotel
Hotel gave the AHS ensemble a lot less to do than usual, but Bates is so respected (she's gotten six noms and a win in this decade alone) that I think she'll be able to coast into the category.

Other Possibilities

7.

Sarah Paulson- American Horror Story: Hotel
She had some standout scenes, but I think the brunt of Paulson's acclaim will be aimed at her turn in O.J..

8.

Catherine Keener- Show Me a Hero

9.

Emayatzy Corinealdi- Roots

10.

Winona Ryder- Show Me a Hero

11.

Anna Paquin- Roots

12.

Angela Bassett- American Horror Story: Hotel

1.

Peter Dinklage- Game of Thrones
He's been nominated five straight times and won twice, including last year. He's likely one of the safest actors on here.

2.

Jim Carter- Downton Abbey
Carter has improbably been here for the past four years; I'm not betting against for a fifth.

3.

Jonathan Banks- Better Call Saul
While he didn't have the type of standout episode that "Five-O" gave him last season, Banks had another top-notch year on Better Call Saul. I think his work, and love of his character, should be enough to get him in.

4.

Christian Slater- Mr. Robot
Mr. Robot is likely going to be the big new show at this year's Emmys, and Slater seems like a strong bet to pick up a nomination. He's already won both the Critics' Choice and Golden Globe Award (which has never happened before), and has a lot of momentum building for him.

5.

Alan Cumming- The Good Wife
Something of a surprise nominee last year, Cumming is coming into the race for The Good Wife's final season. While the season wasn't that well-received, he seems to be well-liked by the TV Academy and their always softer to final seasons when it comes to nominations.

6.

Kit Harrington- Game of Thrones
I'm pulling a wild card here and going with Harrington. He's had a big season, and the publicity surrounding his resurrection should definitely put him on the radar. There's a lot of potential in this category, but this is a category that usually introduces around two new nominees per season.

Other Possibilities

7.

Michael McKean- Better Call Saul
McKean had a superb season this year, and come benefit from more Better Call Saul love. I'm just not sure if the voters are looking at the series acting roster beyond Odenkirk and Banks.

8.

Michael Kelly- House of Cards
He was nominated last year, but his character wasn't in focus as much this season.

9.

Ray Romano- Vinyl

10.

Tobias Menzies- Outlander

11.

Hugh Dancy- The Path

12.

Ben Mendelsohn- Bloodline

1.

Martin Scorsese- Vinyl: "Pilot"
Even if the series isn't that well-liked, Scorsese is a legend and it would be a pretty big shocker to see him miss out on a nomination.

2.

Miguel Sapochnik- Game of Thrones: "Battle of the Bastards"
Sapochnik got snubbed big last year for his work on "Hardhome", but it looks like he'll have a better shot this year. For "Battle of the Bastards", Sapochnik will get the season's big action showcase; the type of work that screams for attention on TV. It also helps that this episode will get extra views thanks to it being the series only writing submission.

3.

Steven Soderbergh- The Knick: "This is All We Are"

Essentially the same as last year; he's an Oscar winner that directed every episode of the series.

4.

Jack Bender- Game of Thrones: "The Door"
Last year, GOT managed to get two noms in this category, and I'm guessing that that'll be the same this year (if not more than that). If so, the natural partner to Sapochnik would be Bender; "The Door" has been seen by many as one of the shows finest episodes and has a big, showy set-piece (the white walker invasion/Bran's vision-time travel). He's also a multiple nominee, so he's on their radar.

5.

Niels Arden Oplev- Mr. Robot: "eps1.0_hellofriend.mov"
I expect to see Mr. Robot factor in here somehow, and I'm guessing that it'll be the series pilot. For one, pilot episodes of series have a very strong track record here (it's a rare year when at least one pilot isn't nominated. Second, the pilot sets the tone for one of the most stylistically distinct series on television.

6.

Lesli Linka Glatter- Homeland: "The Tradition of Hospitality"
#6 is a real head scratcher. They could go with an episode from a reinvigorated House of Cards, one of the last from Downton Abbey, another Game of Thrones, or an outside the box pick like The Leftovers or Outlander. I'm gonna play it safe and go with Glatter for Homeland. She's made it in twice for Homeland, with both of those episodes have the big set-pieces that this one has. She also got a DGA nomination for it, which has matched to Emmys 2/3 times.

Other Possibilities

7. Jeremy Podeswa- Game of Thrones: "Home"
8. Michael Engler- Downton Abbey: "Episode Nine"
9. Robin Wright- House of Cards: "Chapter 49"
10. Mimi Leder- The Leftovers: "I Live Here Now"
11. Tricia Brock- Mr. Robot: "eps1.8_m1rr0r1ng.qt"
12. Craig Zobel- The Leftovers: "International Assassin"

1.

Jill Soloway- Transparent: "Man on the Land"
Soloway won last year and the show is still one of the best reviewed on TV. She seems like a lock to get a nom.

2.

Dale Stern- Veep: "Mother"
Veep has three submitted episodes, so it could be any other (or others), but I'm going with "Mother". It seems to be the most well-reviewed episode of the season, and the best directorial achievement; the fact that the episode doesn't become repentantly dark is genuine achievement on Stern's part.

3.

Mike Judge- Silicon Valley: "Founder Friendly"

Judge has been nominated here twice in a row and, with only two submissions for the series here, it seems likely that he'll continue the streak here.

4.

Aziz Ansari- Master of None: "Parents"
Master of None was one of the best received comedies of the last year, and there seems to be a lot of respect for the series. "Parents" is the only episode that the show submitted, and is likely the most ambitious of the first season (relating the story of parents immigrating into to their kids). Not a lock, but a solid bet.

5.

Marc Webb- Crazy Ex-Girlfriend: "Josh Just Happens To Live Here!"
The last two are just genuine guesses (all of these are, but I feel fairly confident in the first four), but Crazy Ex-Girlfriend seems like something that could do well in this category. Musical series have done pretty well here as of late (Flight of the Conchords, Glee), as they have the type of noticeable directorial influence that makes it easier for voters to see the effort.

6.

Jason Reitman- Casual: "Pilot"
I don't really know here. There's a lot of potential, but I'll go with Reitman because he's an Oscar nominee and that is usually a helpful stat.

Other Possibilities

7. Beth McCarthy-Miller- Black-ish: "Hope"
8. Steve Carell- Angie Tribeca: "Pilot"
9. Chris Addison- Veep: "Morning After"
10. Steven Levitan- Modern Family: "The Party"
11. Ken Whittingham- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: "Kimmy Gives Up!"
12. Mitchell Hurwitz- Lady Dynamite: "Pilot"

1.

Jay Roach- All the Way
Roach has won this award for both of his other HBO flicks, and it would be a surprise to not see him at least get nominated here.

2.

Ryan Murphy- The People v. O.J. Simpson: "From The Ashes Of Tragedy"
O.J. is likely the frontrunner in several of these categories, and it would be surprising not to see it here. The show submitted four episodes, but Murphy is the most recognizable of the bunch (and he's been nominated here for the last two years).

3.

Noah Hawley- Fargo: "Before the Law"

Fargo won this category for it's first season, for which it got two nominations that year. I think this category is just too competitive for it to get dual nods here, but it would shock me to not see it here at all. FX submitted three episodes here, and Hawley's effort seems the most likely of the bunch (primarily because his name is the most recognizable, which is always a big help).

4.

Susanne Bier- The Night Manager
A spy thriller with action and intrigue was tailor-made for this category, and Bier's crisp direction helped it achieve it's full potential.

5.

Sofia Coppola- A Very Murray Christmas
I'm not sure on it's chances overall, but I think Coppola will make it in here. It's a big holiday musical with several fun set pieces that show off her direction, and her being and Oscar winner doesn't hurt.

6.

Mario Van Peebles- Roots: "Night Two"

Other Possibilities

7. Paul Haggis- Show Me a Hero
8. Rick Famuyiwa- Confirmation
9. Douglas MacKinnon- Sherlock: The Abominable Bride
10. John Ridley- American Crime: "Episode Seven"
11. Sam Miller- Luther
12. Richard Eyre- The Dresser

1.

David Benioff & D.B. Weiss- Game of Thrones: "Battle of the Bastards"
They won this category last year, and have been nominated for every season except the second. GOT's only submission here looks like one the locks of the night.

2.

Sam Esmail- Mr. Robot: "eps1.0_hellofriend.mov"
The pilot was the only episode submitted for Mr. Robot and, considering all that I've said about the series, seems like a strong contender here.

3.

Vince Gilligan & Heather Marion- Better Call Saul: "Klick"

I'm pretty certain that Better Call Saul will be here. Aside from genuinely being one of the best written shows on television, the staff overlap with Breaking Bad (a series with huge respect) is strong. The only question for my is which episode; the series submitted seven of it's ten season two episodes. After looking at them, I'm gonna play it safe and go with the finale, "Klick", which happens to have perennial nominee Vince Gilligan on the ballot.

4.

Joel Fields & Joe Weisberg- The Americans: "Persona Non Grata"
Last year The Americans was able to break into this category despite no other noms (aside from a guest acting win). I expects a similar scenario this year; a show respected enough to break into a creative category like this one, but without enough support to make the cut everywhere else.

5.

Nick Cuse & Damon Lindelof- The Leftovers: "International Assassin"
Pretty much the same thing I said for The Americans. The Leftovers second was powerfully received, and no episode proved to be more talked about than "International Assassin". It got a WGA award nomination, and writer Lindelof seems well liked in this category (he got five nods for Lost. It's a dark horse, but I'm going with it.

6.

Louis C.K.- Horace and Pete: "Episode 3"
An odd choice, but not one without reason. I'm guessing few people know what the show is, but they likely know Louis C.K., especially Emmy voters. He's been nominated for over 20 Emmy Awards over the past 5 years, and won five. I'm betting on his name recognition, and the quality of the series, to carry him into this category.

Other Possibilities

7. Julian Fellowes- Downton Abbey: "Part Eight"
8. Jim Danger Gray & Jenji Kohan- Orange is the New Black: "Trust No Bitch"
9. John Mankiewicz- House of Cards: "Chapter 43"
10. Patrick Harbinson- Homeland: "The Tradition of Hospitality"
11. Gordon Smith- Better Call Saul: "Gloves Off"
12. Andy Black- Narcos: "Explosivos!"

1.

Alex Gregory & Peter Huyck- Veep: "Mother"
Veep won this category last year, and it's a strong bet to repeat. This year has three submissions, as opposed to last year's one, so it's a toss-up as to which one(s) make it in, but I feel that "Mother" will probably be the one.

2.

Jill Soloway- Transparent: "Kina Hora"
Transparent has three episodes in the race this year, as I'm pretty sure it did last year, so it could easily get all three in here, but I'm gonna play it safe an go with Soloway to go back-to-back here; she's a multi-nominee/winner who is the creator of the series (creators usually score more individual nods than most).

3.

Alec Berg- Silicon Valley: "The Uptick"

The Judge/Berg-Directing/Writing combination has been strong for the past couple of years, and I'm assuming that it'll continue to be.

4.

Aziz Ansari & Alan Yang- Master of None: "Parents"
Pretty much the same thing that I said for the series in the Directing category.

5.

Kenya Barris- Black-ish: "Hope"
"Hope" is Black-ish's only submission here, and it's a pretty powerful one. Examining police brutality, "Hope" was the series most talked about episode, and arguably it's best reviewed. I'm guessing that it's the type of "important" episode that the TV Academy won't pass up.

6.

Dave Mandel- Veep: "Morning After"
With Veep seemingly having the most momentum in this category, I think they'll be able to get two of their episodes in. Out of the two other's possible, I'd say that Mandel's has the better shot; he's a TV veteran and the series' showrunner.

Other Possibilities

7. Ali Liebegott- Transparent: "Man on the Land"
8. Erik Kenward- Veep: "Doc"
9. Ethan Kuperberg- Transparent: "The Book of Life"
10. Tina Fey & Sam Means- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: "Kimmy Finds Her Mom!"
11. Dan O'Keefe- Silicon Valley: "Founder Friendly"
12. Robert Carlock- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: "Kimmy Goes on a Playdate!"

1.

Robert Schenkkan- All the Way

2.

Noah Hawley- Fargo: "Palindrome"

3.

Scott Alexander & Larry Karaszewski- The People v. O.J. Simpson: "From the Ashes of Tradgedy"

4.

John Ridley- American Crime: "Episode 7"

5.

David Simon and William F. Zorzi- Show Me a Hero: "Part Six"

6.

D. V. DeVincentis- The People v. O.J. Simpson: "Marcia, Marcia, Marcia"

Other Possibilities

7. Mark Gatiss & Steven Moffat- Sherlock: The Abominable Bride
8. Neil Cross- Luther
9. Bob DeLaurentis- Fargo: "Loplop"
10. David Farr- The Night Manager
11. Susannah Grant- Confirmation
12. Joe Robert Cole- The People v. O.J. Simpson: "The Race Card"