Will Jean Smart Dominate the Emmys Again for ‘Hacks’?

by

Explore Awards Circuit Predictions Pages
Oscars  |  Emmys  |  Grammys  |  Tonys

Commentary on Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series (April 3, 2025 Update): The main comedy actress category is filled with seasoned veterans, up-and-coming talents, and innovative fresh faces.

Once again, it’s Jean Smart who is at the forefront, possibly claiming her sixth Emmy award overall, and the fourth for her character as Deborah Vance, the Las Vegas stand-up diva, in the fourth season of “Hacks” on HBO/Max. Smart has already won consecutive awards in 2021 and 2022 (the show was not eligible during the 2023 period), and she returned again last year with her compelling, multi-layered portrayal that continues to develop in unexpected and emotionally resonant ways.

2023’s victor, Quinta Brunson, is hot on the heels of her success in ABC’s “Abbott Elementary,” where she continues to dazzle. In 2022, Brunson made history by being the first Black woman in more than four decades to secure a lead comedy actress award, and she remains a strong competitor with another impressive season full of touching humor and sharp commentaries about education in public schools.

As a movie critic, I’ve got to say that Kristen Bell is truly shining in Netflix’s comedy “Nobody Wants This.” In this production, she steps into the character of a witty and vulnerable sex and dating podcaster. Her comedic timing is on point, and her performance exudes an authenticity that’s captivating to watch.

While Bell has had an impressive career in genre television, this role could very well be the stepping stone towards her first significant awards recognition. It’s a testament to her versatility as an actress, and I can’t wait to see where she takes her talent next.

As a film enthusiast, I can’t overlook Ayo Edebiri, who has been soaring with her Emmy and Golden Globe victories in the supporting role for “The Bear.” Moving from being a contender to essentially co-leading the series in its second season, she was the sole actor not recognized last year. This upcoming season, Sydney Adamu, the character Edebiri plays, is poised for a powerful return. However, the third season received more subdued reviews compared to earlier ones. Should Edebiri shine again in the fourth season – and if it premieres during Emmy voting time – that could significantly boost her chances.

Natasha Lyonne re-enters the competitive arena with her quirky contributions in the mystery-comedy “Poker Face,” produced by Rian Johnson on Peacock. Previously nominated for “Russian Doll,” Lyonne exudes a timeless charm reminiscent of Columbo in her role as Charlie Cale, a human lie detector. Her performance, coupled with the show’s distinctive style and witty dialogue, has caught the eye of Emmy voters. Given her nomination in the first season, it seems likely she will continue to be recognized.

In a similar vein as Natasha Lyonne’s character, Uzo Aduba could reappear in the same category for her portrayal of Cordelia Cupp in Netflix’s “The Residence.” Here, she assumes the role of a consultant within the Metropolitan Police Department, starring in a politically-driven series that carries a satirical undertone.

Additionally, during the discussion, there’s actress Kathryn Hahn, starring in Marvel’s inaugural comedic series “Agatha All Along.” Her portrayal skillfully blends magical elements with a touch of middle-aged ennui.

After that, we’ll take into account notable Emmy contenders like Tina Fey in the upcoming series “The Four Seasons,” Bridget Everett in the final season of “Somebody Somewhere,” and Selena Gomez who garnered her first acting Emmy nomination last year for “Only Murders in the Building” and made history as the most nominated Latina producer to date.

As a cinephile closely monitoring this year’s Oscar race, it’s worth noting that the number of eligible films could potentially dip below the minimum of 80 entries. This tightens the competition significantly, as only six nominees will be chosen in each category. So, keep your eyes peeled for any last-minute submissions that might just tip the scales!

See Emmy Award predictions below:

EbMaster Awards Circuit: Oscars

We’ll be continuously updating our list of potential nominees and contenders for the TV Awards throughout the season, which we will release every Thursday.

    And the Predicted Contenders Are:

    !function(){“use strict”;window.addEventListener(“message”,(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data[“datawrapper-height”]){var e=document.querySelectorAll(“iframe”);for(var t in a.data[“datawrapper-height”])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data[“datawrapper-height”][t]+”px”;r.style.height=d}}}))}();

    More Information (Lead Actress Comedy)

    !function(){“use strict”;window.addEventListener(“message”,(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data[“datawrapper-height”]){var e=document.querySelectorAll(“iframe”);for(var t in a.data[“datawrapper-height”])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data[“datawrapper-height”][t]+”px”;r.style.height=d}}}))}();
    !function(){“use strict”;window.addEventListener(“message”,(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data[“datawrapper-height”]){var e=document.querySelectorAll(“iframe”);for(var t in a.data[“datawrapper-height”])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data[“datawrapper-height”][t]+”px”;r.style.height=d}}}))}();
    About the Primetime Emmy Awards

    Each year, the Primetime Emmy Awards, often referred to simply as “the Emmys,” are bestowed by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (ATAS). These prestigious awards honor exceptional accomplishments in American prime-time television, which they’ve been doing since 1949. The Emmys are divided into three main categories:

    1. Primetime Emmy Awards for excellence in performance and production.
    2. Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards, acknowledging achievements in artistic and technical craftsmanship.
    3. Primetime Engineering Emmy Awards, honoring significant advancements in engineering and technology.

    The eligibility period usually spans from June 1 to May 31 of each year. The Television Academy, with over 20,000 members spread across 30 professional peer groups such as performers, directors, producers, art directors, artisans, and executives, oversees the Emmys. They host the awards ceremony to celebrate the best in American prime-time television.

Read More

2025-04-03 22:19