Early Emmy Predictions: Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

Contenders are listed in the order I think they’re likely to get nominated. The first ten represent my predictions for the top ten run-off, with the first five as my predictions for the eventual nominees.

Katherine Heigl didn’t submit herself for consideration this year, which many believe will lead to a better shot for costar Sara Ramirez. As far as the “Grey’s Anatomy” ladies are concerned, both Chandra Wilson should easily return this year, and Sandra Oh will be a contender as well though word is that she wasn’t so good this season. Rachel Griffiths should be back, and Connie Britton may have a better chance this year in the supporting field though the buzz for “Friday Night Lights” is much dimmer than it was last year. It would be nice if Yunjin Kim got in for “Lost”, but she’ll have to beat out four new contenders: January Jones of “Mad Men”, Rose Byrne of “Damages”, Mia Wasikowska of “In Treatment” and Candice Bergen of “Boston Legal”, who didn’t submit herself last year. I may also be underestimating both Dianne Wiest and Jill Clayburgh. Since I like to go out on a limb and make at least one crazy prediction, I figure I’ll do it here. Kristen Bell was consistently ignored by Emmy voters for “Veronica Mars”, and maybe the buzz last year for “Heroes” and her spectacular performance on the show can help her break through. My one really “out-there” prediction.

Current predicted winner: Chandra Wilson