As the Emmy race for limited series and TV movies intensifies, Colin Farrell Emmy frontrunner for The Penguin has captured industry attention, while Steve Carell could prove to be a surprise challenger as new contenders reshape the field. Industry discussions indicate that this year’s category faces upheaval similar to last year’s, with series like Adolescence making a strong impression.
Lead Actors Face Fierce Competition in Limited Series and TV Movies
The latest episode of Variety’s Award Circuit, hosted by TV editors Michael Schneider and Emily Longeretta, explored the current roster of leading and supporting actors considered top contenders at the Emmy Awards. Colin Farrell, hailed for his role in The Penguin, is widely considered to be ahead in the race. However, Steve Carell, starring in Jesse Armstrong’s Mountainhead after his work on Succession, brings notable star power to the conversation. Stephen Graham emerges as the dark horse, thanks to his performance and creative input on Adolescence.
Contributing to the competitive landscape is the strong showing by Stephen Graham. As Emily Longeretta noted,
It’s hard to hard to beat out Colin Farrell,
and added,
But the new ‘Baby Reindeer,’ [we have] Stephen Graham for ‘Adolescence.’ He’s the co-creator of the show and the star. He co-wrote every episode.
Notable Women Contenders in the Lead Actress Field
The female acting category remains equally dynamic. Top prospects include Cristin Milioti for The Penguin, Cate Blanchett in Disclaimer, Rashida Jones representing Black Mirror, Amanda Seyfried from Long Bright River, Michelle Williams with Dying for Sex, and Ellen Pompeo for Good American Family. Schneider commented on Ellen Pompeo’s presence in the Hulu series, stating,
She’s been in our homes for years,
—Michael Schneider, TV Editor.
TV Movie Category Draws Major Names
In the realm of television movies, Renée Zellweger stands out with her reprisal of Bridget Jones in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy. Schneider remarked on the character’s enduring popularity, sharing,
She has personified that character for years, and that’s a beloved piece of IP,
and further distinguished the format’s American debut by noting,
In the rest of the world, it was a movie movie, it was in theaters… but here in America, it was on Peacock.
—Michael Schneider, TV Editor.
Supporting Actor Roster Adds More Depth
Beyond the principal races, other notable names stand out as Emmy hopefuls. Paul Giamatti is recognized for Black Mirror, Brian Tyree Henry for Dope Thief, while Cooper Koch and Nicholas Alexander Chavez are jointly considered for Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story. Jake Gyllenhaal’s work in Presumed Innocent also places him firmly within the nominees’ spotlight. These names, together with the likes of Steve Carell, Amanda Seyfried, and Rashida Jones, reflect a year marked by acclaimed performances.
As anticipation grows for the Emmy ceremony, the lasting impact of these performances on the audience and industry will become clearer. With Colin Farrell leading as the apparent favorite, the potential for surprises—especially from Steve Carell or Stephen Graham—keeps the outcome unpredictable and the race compelling for fans and professionals alike.
