After a run of up to 25 nominations in the 2022 edition, the Emmy Awards again surpassed its peers in total nominations, underscoring the year’s standout achievements across television. The looming writers strike and the looming expiration of the union contract with major studios on the same Wednesday added a tense backdrop to the awards season, highlighting the industry’s fragile balance between creative excellence and labor dynamics. (Source: Television Academy press materials, 2022)
Series created by Jesse Armstrong earned top recognition for its sharp, electric satire of a media dynasty, collecting 27 nominations for its acclaimed final season. It is anticipated to compete in the best drama series category, with substantial recognition across the cast as well. Brian Cox is listed as a contender for Best Actor, a testament to his portrayal of power and downfall in a single, sprawling arc. Sarah Snook (Shiv) expands her presence to the nomination pool in a leading role category, while Jeremy Strong could add a second Emmy for his portrayal of Kendall Roy after winning in 2020. (Source: Academy announcements, 2022)
Other dramas nominated for Best Drama included Better Call Saul, Andor, The Crown, House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, The White Lotus, and Yellowjackets. With four series in this group, HBO emphasized a level of consistency not seen from any single network or streaming platform since 1992. Similarly, NBC programs Time of Conflict, Through Time, Los Angeles Law, and Law and Order secured nominations, signaling a broad, year-long narrative footprint across broadcast and cable. (Source: Emmy nominees press release, 2022)
In the comedy category, notable debuts marked the season as much as established favorites. The Bear, a piercing look at gastronomy and loss, drew early acclaim; Wednesday and Jury Duty also joined the conversation. The field also included perennial contenders such as Ted Lasso, which had won the category in the previous two years, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Only Murders in the Building, Barry, and Abbott Elementary. (Source: Emmy nominations roundup, 2022)
In the limited or anthology series and television movie segment, recognized titles included Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, with Evan Peters up for lead actor; the dark comedy Bronca; Fleishman Is in Trouble; and Daisy Jones & the Six, each contributing to a diverse landscape of storytelling. (Source: Emmy database, 2022)