Hey everyone! The Emmy Awards are just around the corner, and you know what that means: it's prediction time! Figuring out who's going to snag those coveted nominations is always a fun game, and 2022 is no exception. So, let's dive right into the buzziest shows and performances that could be getting some serious love from the Television Academy. We'll break down the potential nominees in the major categories, giving you our take on who's got the best shot. Get ready to see if your favorite shows and actors make the cut! Predicting the Emmy nominations can be tricky, but analyzing the trends, critical acclaim, and audience reception can provide some insight. Several factors influence the nomination process, including the number of submissions in each category, the preferences of the Television Academy voters, and the overall cultural impact of the shows. A show's popularity and critical reception are often key indicators of its chances of being nominated. Shows that generate significant buzz and positive reviews are more likely to catch the attention of voters. Outstanding writing, directing, acting, and overall production quality are also crucial factors. The competition for Emmy nominations is fierce, with hundreds of shows vying for recognition. This makes it even more challenging to predict who will ultimately make the cut. However, by carefully examining the contenders and considering the various influencing factors, we can make informed predictions about who might be recognized for their achievements.

Outstanding Drama Series

Okay, let's kick things off with the big one: Outstanding Drama Series. This is always a hotly contested category, and this year is no different. We're expecting some of the usual suspects to be back in the mix, but there could be a few surprises too.

• Succession (HBO): Guys, this show is a lock. With its sharp writing, incredible performances, and addictive storylines, Succession is a critical darling and a fan favorite. Expect it to be a frontrunner for the win as well.
• Squid Game (Netflix): This global phenomenon took the world by storm. Squid Game's unique premise, combined with its gripping storytelling and stunning visuals, makes it a strong contender for a nomination. It will be interesting to see if the Academy embraces a non-English language series in this category.
• Severance (Apple TV+): This mind-bending thriller has captivated audiences with its intriguing mystery and stellar cast. Severance's innovative concept and thought-provoking themes could earn it a well-deserved nomination.
• Ozark (Netflix): With its final season, Ozark has a good chance of securing another nomination. The show's intense drama and compelling characters have kept viewers hooked for years.
• Better Call Saul (AMC): As it heads into its final episodes, Better Call Saul is looking to go out with a bang. The show's consistently high quality and strong performances should earn it a spot in the nominations.

Possible wildcards: Euphoria (HBO), Yellowjackets (Showtime), and The Morning Show (Apple TV+). These shows have generated considerable buzz and could sneak into the nominations.

Predicting the nominees for Outstanding Drama Series requires a comprehensive understanding of the television landscape. Succession has consistently garnered critical acclaim for its sharp writing, complex characters, and compelling storylines. The show's exploration of power, family dynamics, and corporate greed has resonated with audiences and critics alike. Squid Game, a South Korean survival drama, achieved global recognition for its unique premise and social commentary. The show's exploration of economic inequality and human desperation captivated viewers worldwide. Severance has received praise for its innovative concept, which explores the implications of dividing work and personal life. The show's thought-provoking themes and stellar cast have generated significant buzz. Ozark has consistently delivered intense drama and compelling characters throughout its run. The show's exploration of morality, family loyalty, and the consequences of criminal behavior has kept viewers engaged. Better Call Saul, a spin-off of Breaking Bad, has garnered critical acclaim for its nuanced storytelling and character development. The show's exploration of moral ambiguity and the transformation of Jimmy McGill into Saul Goodman has been widely praised.

Outstanding Comedy Series

Alright, let's switch gears to the Outstanding Comedy Series category. This is where things get a little lighter, but the competition is just as fierce. Get ready for some laughs – and some tough choices for the Emmy voters!

• Ted Lasso (Apple TV+): You know Ted Lasso is going to be there. This feel-good show has captured hearts with its optimism, humor, and heartwarming characters. Expect it to be a strong contender for the win once again.
• Hacks (HBO Max): This critically acclaimed comedy has been praised for its sharp writing and the incredible performances of Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder. Hacks is a definite contender for a nomination.
• Only Murders in the Building (Hulu): This witty and charming whodunit has been a hit with audiences and critics alike. Only Murders in the Building's clever writing and stellar cast make it a strong contender for a nomination.
• Abbott Elementary (ABC): This hilarious and heartwarming mockumentary has been a breakout hit this year. Abbott Elementary's fresh perspective and relatable characters could earn it a well-deserved nomination.
• Barry (HBO): With its dark humor and unpredictable storylines, Barry has consistently impressed critics. The show's unique blend of comedy and drama could earn it another nomination.

Possible wildcards: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Amazon Prime Video), What We Do in the Shadows (FX), and Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO). These shows have a dedicated following and could sneak into the nominations.

Predicting the nominees for Outstanding Comedy Series involves analyzing a variety of factors, including critical reception, audience engagement, and cultural relevance. Ted Lasso has consistently received high praise for its heartwarming and optimistic tone. The show's focus on kindness, empathy, and teamwork has resonated with viewers worldwide. Hacks has been lauded for its sharp writing, complex characters, and exceptional performances. The show's exploration of the dynamics between a legendary comedian and a young writer has captivated audiences. Only Murders in the Building has garnered acclaim for its clever writing, engaging mystery, and stellar cast. The show's blend of humor, suspense, and heartwarming moments has resonated with viewers. Abbott Elementary has been praised for its fresh perspective on the challenges and rewards of teaching in an underfunded public school. The show's relatable characters and humorous situations have made it a breakout hit. Barry has consistently impressed critics with its dark humor, unpredictable storylines, and exceptional performances. The show's unique blend of comedy and drama has set it apart from other comedies.

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series

Alright, let’s move on to the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series category. This is where we celebrate the guys who really brought it with their performances. Get ready for some serious talent!

• Brian Cox (Succession): As Logan Roy, Brian Cox is a force of nature. His commanding presence and nuanced performance make him a shoo-in for a nomination – and possibly the win.
• Lee Jung-jae (Squid Game): Lee Jung-jae's portrayal of Seong Gi-hun was both heartbreaking and captivating. His performance resonated with audiences around the world and could earn him a historic nomination.
• Adam Scott (Severance): Adam Scott's performance in Severance is a revelation. His ability to convey both the mundane and the deeply unsettling makes him a strong contender.
• Jason Bateman (Ozark): Jason Bateman has consistently delivered a stellar performance as Marty Byrde. His subtle yet powerful portrayal of a man caught in a dangerous situation should earn him another nomination.
• Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul): As he bids farewell to Saul Goodman, Bob Odenkirk is delivering the performance of his career. His nuanced and complex portrayal of the character deserves recognition.

Possible wildcards: Sterling K. Brown (This Is Us), Jeremy Strong (Succession), and Penn Badgley (You). These actors have delivered strong performances and could sneak into the nominations.

Predicting the nominees for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series requires careful consideration of each actor's performance and the impact they had on their respective shows. Brian Cox has consistently delivered a commanding and nuanced performance as Logan Roy in Succession. His portrayal of a ruthless and complex media mogul has earned him widespread critical acclaim. Lee Jung-jae's portrayal of Seong Gi-hun in Squid Game was both heartbreaking and captivating. His ability to convey the character's desperation, resilience, and moral struggles resonated with audiences worldwide. Adam Scott's performance in Severance has been praised for its subtlety and depth. His portrayal of a man grappling with the implications of severing his work and personal life has been particularly compelling. Jason Bateman has consistently delivered a stellar performance as Marty Byrde in Ozark. His subtle yet powerful portrayal of a man caught in a dangerous situation has earned him widespread recognition. Bob Odenkirk's portrayal of Saul Goodman in Better Call Saul has been widely praised for its nuance and complexity. His ability to capture the character's transformation from a struggling lawyer to a morally compromised criminal has been particularly impressive.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series

Now, let's shine a spotlight on the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series category. These women have delivered some truly unforgettable performances this year!

• Zendaya (Euphoria): Zendaya's raw and powerful performance as Rue Bennett has earned her widespread acclaim. She's a strong contender to repeat her win from 2020.
• Laura Linney (Ozark): Laura Linney's portrayal of Wendy Byrde is consistently outstanding. Her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability makes her a force to be reckoned with.
• Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets): Melanie Lynskey's performance in Yellowjackets has been a revelation. Her nuanced portrayal of a woman grappling with a dark past has earned her critical acclaim.
• Reese Witherspoon (The Morning Show): Reese Witherspoon continues to deliver a strong performance as Bradley Jackson. Her portrayal of a journalist navigating the cutthroat world of morning television should earn her another nomination.
• Jung Ho-yeon (Squid Game): Jung Ho-yeon's portrayal of Kang Sae-byeok was both compelling and heartbreaking. Her performance resonated with audiences worldwide and could earn her a nomination.

Possible wildcards: Jennifer Aniston (The Morning Show), Jodie Comer (Killing Eve), and Sandra Oh (Killing Eve). These actresses have delivered strong performances and could sneak into the nominations.

Predicting the nominees for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series involves analyzing each actress's performance and the impact they had on their respective shows. Zendaya's raw and powerful performance as Rue Bennett in Euphoria has earned her widespread acclaim. Her ability to convey the character's struggles with addiction and mental health has resonated with audiences. Laura Linney's portrayal of Wendy Byrde in Ozark is consistently outstanding. Her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability makes her a force to be reckoned with. Melanie Lynskey's performance in Yellowjackets has been praised for its nuance and depth. Her portrayal of a woman grappling with a dark past has earned her critical acclaim. Reese Witherspoon continues to deliver a strong performance as Bradley Jackson in The Morning Show. Her portrayal of a journalist navigating the cutthroat world of morning television should earn her another nomination. Jung Ho-yeon's portrayal of Kang Sae-byeok in Squid Game was both compelling and heartbreaking. Her performance resonated with audiences worldwide and could earn her a nomination.

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

Let’s not forget the funny guys! Here are my predictions for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series:

• Jason Sudeikis (Ted Lasso): It's hard to imagine this category without Jason Sudeikis. His portrayal of Ted Lasso is charming, heartwarming, and hilarious.
• Bill Hader (Barry): Bill Hader's performance in Barry is a masterclass in dark comedy. He seamlessly blends humor and pathos, making his character both hilarious and deeply troubled.
• Steve Martin (Only Murders in the Building): Steve Martin's comedic timing is impeccable. His portrayal of Charles-Haden Savage is both witty and endearing.
• Martin Short (Only Murders in the Building): Martin Short's performance as Oliver Putnam is a comedic tour-de-force. His energy and physical comedy are unmatched.
• Donald Glover (Atlanta): Donald Glover's performance in Atlanta is consistently brilliant. He brings a unique blend of humor and social commentary to the role.

Possible wildcards: Anthony Anderson (Black-ish), Nicholas Hoult (The Great), and Larry David (Curb Your Enthusiasm). These actors have delivered strong performances and could sneak into the nominations.

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series predictions rely on performances that showcase both comedic timing and character depth. Jason Sudeikis, as Ted Lasso, embodies optimism and heart, making him a perennial favorite. Bill Hader's portrayal of Barry skillfully blends dark humor with profound emotional turmoil. Steve Martin, in Only Murders in the Building, delivers witty and endearing comedic timing. Martin Short's energetic and physical comedy in the same series makes him a standout. Donald Glover's unique blend of humor and social commentary in Atlanta consistently impresses. Anthony Anderson in Black-ish, Nicholas Hoult in The Great, and Larry David in Curb Your Enthusiasm offer compelling performances that could also garner nominations.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. These ladies are hilarious, talented, and totally deserving of recognition!

• Jean Smart (Hacks): Jean Smart is a legend, and her performance in Hacks is further proof of her brilliance. She delivers a masterclass in comedic acting, blending sharp wit with genuine emotion.
• Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary): Quinta Brunson is the creator and star of Abbott Elementary, and she's absolutely killing it. Her performance is both hilarious and heartwarming, and she brings a fresh perspective to the comedy landscape.
• Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel): Rachel Brosnahan continues to shine as Midge Maisel. Her energy and wit are infectious, and she delivers her lines with impeccable comedic timing.
• Kaley Cuoco (The Flight Attendant): Kaley Cuoco has proven her comedic chops with The Flight Attendant. She brings a vulnerability and relatability to the role that makes her performance truly memorable.
• Elle Fanning (The Great): Elle Fanning is fantastic in The Great. She brings a sharp wit and a playful energy to her portrayal of Catherine the Great.

Possible wildcards: Issa Rae (Insecure), Tracee Ellis Ross (Black-ish), and Maya Rudolph (Loot). These actresses have delivered strong performances and could sneak into the nominations.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series predictions highlight those who blend humor with depth. Jean Smart's brilliance in Hacks showcases sharp wit and genuine emotion. Quinta Brunson in Abbott Elementary offers a fresh, heartwarming comedic perspective. Rachel Brosnahan's infectious energy as Midge Maisel continues to impress. Kaley Cuoco's vulnerability in The Flight Attendant makes her memorable. Elle Fanning's playful portrayal of Catherine the Great in The Great stands out. Issa Rae in Insecure, Tracee Ellis Ross in Black-ish, and Maya Rudolph in Loot are also contenders with strong performances.

So there you have it, folks! My predictions for the 2022 Emmy nominations. Of course, these are just guesses, and the Television Academy could always surprise us. But it's fun to speculate and celebrate the amazing talent on television. Let me know in the comments who you think will be nominated! Who are you rooting for? Let the games begin!