Sunday, June 30, 2019

Emmy Predictions: Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series


The 70th Primetime Emmy Awards nominations will be announced on Tuesday, July 16th. As always, chime in below in the comments with any thoughts of your own.

Last year’s nominees: Jason Bateman, Sterling K. Brown, Ed Harris, Matthew Rhys, Milo Ventimiglia, Jeffrey Wright

The competition: Like last year, three of the contenders aren’t eligible this time around. Defending champ Matthew Rhys’ series ended last season, while “Westworld” won’t be back until sometime in 2020, leaving Ed Harris and Jeffrey Wright out of contention. It’s fair to assume that the other half of the slate will be back, though it’s possible enthusiasm could be waning for Milo Ventimiglia (This Is Us), though Sterling K. Brown (This Is Us) is a safer bet. Jason Bateman (Ozark) did well with the Golden Globes and SAG, and so he should make the cut too. A nominee from two years ago, Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul), is a sure thing now that his show is eligible again. It’s possible that Liev Schreiber (Ray Donovan), left off the list for the first time last year after multiple nominations, could return, and, as long as there isn’t backlash from those frustrated with his show’s final season, past supporting nominee Kit Harington (Game of Thrones) might also joint the list. There are a handful of new contenders vying for recognition, including Globe nominees Stephan James (Homecoming), Billy Porter (Pose), and winner Richard Madden (Bodyguard) and SAG nominee John Krasinski (Jack Ryan), though it will depend on how their shows are received by voters. Other possibilities include Brian Cox (Succession), Kevin Costner (Yellowstone), and, my personal favorite, J.K. Simmons (Counterpart).

The predicted nominees: Bateman, Brown, Harington, Madden, Odenkirk, Ventimiglia

The predicted winner: If he’s nominated, I think Madden takes it over his former costar Harington, who will also net votes, though many believe it will be a battle between Odenkirk and Bateman.

Next up: Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series

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