Emmy Race: Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

Last year’s eligible nominees:
Jon Hamm (30 Rock)

The top contenders:

Jack Black (Community) Jason Alexander (Curb Your Enthusiasm) Michael Richards (Curb Your Enthusiasm) Jerry Seinfeld (Curb Your Enthusiasm) Neil Patrick Harris (Glee)

Justin Kirk (Modern Family) Fred Willard (Modern Family) Victor Garber (Nurse Jackie) Will Arnett (Parks and Recreation) Rob Lowe (Parks and Recreation)

Steve Guttenberg (Party Down) Jon Hamm (SNL) Matt Damon (30 Rock) James Franco (30 Rock) Michael Sheen (30 Rock)

This category has been overstuffed with “30 Rock” men over the past two years, earning four and three nods, respectively. This year, I think it will be cut down to two: Matt Damon for his work in the season finale and Michael Sheen for his recurring role as Liz’s settling soul mate. Last year’s nominee Jon Hamm will likely be back, but for his SNL hosting gig instead. Neil Patrick Harris is a good bet for his guest spot in the Joss Whedon-directed episode of “Glee.” The entire “Seinfeld” cast guest-starred on “Curb Your Enthusiasm” this year, and Jason Alexander, who turns out to be a sort of nemesis for Larry, probably has the best shot.

JASON ALEXANDER, CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM
MATT DAMON, 30 ROCK
JAMES FRANCO, 30 ROCK*
JON HAMM, SNL
NEIL PATRICK HARRIS, GLEE
MICHAEL SHEEN, 30 ROCK


*Updated to reflect 6 nominees in category

Who could win? Battle to the death between two actors who haven’t won Emmys for their regular shows. Hamm probably beats out Alexander.

Next up: Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series