The Full List of 2020 Emmy Nominations: Celebrating Television’s Outstanding Achievements

The year 2020 presented unprecedented challenges across the globe, yet television continued to be a vital source of entertainment, comfort, and insight for millions. In recognition of this remarkable output, the nominations for the 72nd Primetime Emmy Awards were officially announced live on July 28, 2020. This year, the reveal itself was a testament to adaptability, hosted virtually by the effervescent Leslie Jones, alongside talented presenters Josh Gad, Laverne Cox, and Tatiana Maslany. Their collective enthusiasm brought a much-needed sparkle to the digital announcement, setting the stage for what promises to be a unique awards season.

The ceremony itself, slated for September 20, 2020, will be hosted by the ever-witty Jimmy Kimmel. While the exact format of the main event remained under wraps at the time of nominations, it was clear that the Television Academy was committed to celebrating the best of the best in a way that prioritizes health and safety. These nominations shine a spotlight on the incredible talent, compelling storytelling, and groundbreaking production that captivated audiences throughout the eligibility period, demonstrating television’s enduring power to connect and inspire.

The past year truly delivered some of the most memorable and critically acclaimed performances and series in recent memory. Powerhouse actress Reese Witherspoon showcased her remarkable versatility, starring in three major nominated projects: Big Little Lies, The Morning Show, and Little Fires Everywhere. Regina King once again proved her exceptional dramatic prowess with her breathtaking role in HBO’s superhero deconstruction, Watchmen. Meanwhile, HBO’s Succession cemented its status as one of the most compelling dramas currently on air, drawing significant praise for its intricate writing and stellar ensemble cast. On the comedy front, Pop TV’s Schitt’s Creek delighted fans with its heartfelt and hilarious final season, solidifying its place as a beloved comedy classic. The sheer breadth and quality of nominations reflect a golden age for television. Below, we present the comprehensive list of nominees across all major categories.

The Drama Categories: A Fierce Competition Among Television’s Top Series

The drama categories at the 2020 Emmys showcased a vibrant and diverse array of storytelling, from intricate family sagas to dystopian futures and epic space adventures. This year’s contenders highlight the incredible depth of talent both in front of and behind the camera, with many established hits vying for top honors alongside thrilling new entries. Viewers were treated to complex characters, gripping narratives, and visually stunning productions that pushed the boundaries of what television drama can achieve.

Outstanding Drama Series

This flagship category recognized shows that delivered exceptional storytelling and production value throughout their seasons. The nominees represent a fantastic cross-section of genres and themes, each leaving a significant mark on the cultural landscape.

• Better Call Saul
• The Crown
• The Handmaid’s Tale
• Killing Eve
• The Mandalorian
• Ozark
• Stranger Things
• Succession

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series

The competition for Lead Actor in a Drama Series was particularly fierce, featuring a mix of returning champions and compelling new faces. These actors delivered performances that anchored their respective series, drawing audiences deep into their characters’ complex emotional worlds.

• Jason Bateman, Ozark
• Sterling K. Brown, This Is Us
• Steve Carell, The Morning Show
• Brian Cox, Succession
• Billy Porter, Pose
• Jeremy Strong, Succession

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series

The Lead Actress category brought together an incredible roster of talent, including several Emmy darlings and breakout stars. Notably, Zendaya received her first Emmy nomination for her raw and powerful performance in Euphoria, making her one of the youngest nominees in this prestigious category.

• Jennifer Aniston, The Morning Show
• Olivia Colman, The Crown
• Jodie Comer, Killing Eve
• Laura Linney, Ozark
• Sandra Oh, Killing Eve
• Zendaya, Euphoria

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

This category underscored the strength of ensemble casts, particularly with multiple nominations for actors from Succession and The Morning Show. These performers often provided the crucial emotional bedrock and intricate character dynamics that elevated their series.

• Giancarlo Esposito, Better Call Saul
• Nicholas Braun, Succession
• Kieran Culkin, Succession
• Matthew Macfadyen, Succession
• Bradley Whitford, The Handmaid’s Tale
• Billy Crudup, The Morning Show
• Mark Duplass, The Morning Show
• Jeffrey Wright, Westworld

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

The Supporting Actress category was equally stacked with remarkable talent, featuring veteran actresses and rising stars who delivered impactful and nuanced performances. From the powerful women of Monterey to the political intrigue of the British monarchy, these roles left an indelible impression.

• Laura Dern, Big Little Lies
• Meryl Streep, Big Little Lies
• Julia Garner, Ozark
• Sarah Snook, Succession
• Helena Bonham Carter, The Crown
• Fiona Shaw, Killing Eve
• Samira Wiley, The Handmaid’s Tale
• Thandie Newton, Westworld

Limited Series and Television Movies: Remarkable Standalone Narratives

The Limited Series and Television Movie categories continued to be a hotbed for ambitious, self-contained stories and stunning performances. These productions, often featuring cinematic quality and star-studded casts, offered viewers deeply engrossing narratives that concluded within a single season or film. The nominations reflect bold storytelling and powerful acting across a range of genres, from historical dramas to psychological thrillers.

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie

Actors in this category delivered captivating performances, transforming into complex characters for intense, finite narratives. From a haunting portrayal of a family man to a charismatic teacher, the nominees showcased immense talent.

• Jeremy Irons, Watchmen
• Hugh Jackman, Bad Education
• Paul Mescal, Normal People
• Jeremy Pope, Hollywood
• Mark Ruffalo, I Know This Much Is True

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie

This category was a testament to the powerful female performances of the year, with actresses bringing depth and nuance to their demanding roles. Regina King’s nomination for Watchmen further solidified her status as an industry titan, while Cate Blanchett’s portrayal of Phyllis Schlafly in Mrs. America was widely acclaimed.

• Cate Blanchett, Mrs. America
• Shira Haas, Unorthodox
• Regina King, Watchmen
• Octavia Spencer, Self Made
• Kerry Washington, Little Fires Everywhere

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie

The supporting roles in limited series and movies often provide critical depth and dimension. This year, performers from standout shows like Watchmen and Hollywood earned recognition for their impactful contributions to these memorable stories.

• Dylan McDermott, Hollywood
• Jim Parsons, Hollywood
• Tituss Burgess, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. The Reverend
• Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Watchmen
• Jovan Adepo, Watchmen
• Louis Gossett Jr., Watchmen

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie

From the political landscape of Mrs. America to the intense drama of Watchmen, the actresses nominated in this category delivered unforgettable performances that enriched their respective series.

• Holland Taylor, Hollywood
• Uzo Aduba, Mrs. America
• Margo Martindale, Mrs. America
• Tracey Ullman, Mrs. America
• Toni Collette, Unbelievable
• Jean Smart, Watchmen

Outstanding Limited Series

The contenders for Outstanding Limited Series offered a diverse array of gripping narratives, exploring complex social issues, historical events, and personal journeys. Each series captivated audiences with its unique vision and compelling execution.

• Little Fires Everywhere
• Mrs. America
• Unbelievable
• Unorthodox
• Watchmen

Outstanding Television Movie

Television movies continued to prove their power to tell compelling stories in a concise format. The nominees ranged from poignant dramas to exhilarating action-packed sequels, showcasing the versatility of the made-for-TV film.

• American Son
• Bad Education
• Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings: These Old Bones
• El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie
• Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. The Reverend

The Comedy Categories: Laughter and Heart in Unforgettable Seasons

The comedy landscape of 2020 was rich with humor, heart, and sharp social commentary. The Emmy nominations celebrated shows that made us laugh, reflect, and sometimes even cry. This year was particularly noteworthy for bidding farewell to beloved series like Schitt’s Creek and The Good Place, both of which received significant recognition for their final, triumphant seasons. The variety in this category demonstrates the breadth of comedic talent thriving on television.

Outstanding Comedy Series

This category highlighted shows that truly stood out in delivering consistent humor and engaging narratives. From satirical looks at everyday life to whimsical fantastical settings, these series offered much-needed levity and joy.

• Curb Your Enthusiasm
• Dead To Me
• The Good Place
• Insecure
• The Kominsky Method
• The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
• Schitt’s Creek
• What We Do In The Shadows

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

The nominees for Lead Actor in a Comedy Series delivered performances that were both hilarious and deeply nuanced. Eugene Levy’s nomination for the final season of Schitt’s Creek was a particularly poignant nod to his beloved character.

• Anthony Anderson, black-ish
• Don Cheadle, Black Monday
• Ted Danson, The Good Place
• Michael Douglas, The Kominsky Method
• Eugene Levy, Schitt’s Creek
• Ramy Youssef, Ramy

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

This category celebrated the leading ladies who kept audiences laughing and emotionally invested. Catherine O’Hara’s iconic portrayal of Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek was a standout, alongside strong performances from Rachel Brosnahan and Christina Applegate.

• Christina Applegate, Dead To Me
• Rachel Brosnahan, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
• Linda Cardellini, Dead To Me
• Catherine O’Hara, Schitt’s Creek
• Issa Rae, Insecure
• Tracee Ellis Ross, black-ish

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

The supporting actors in comedy added significant comedic punch and emotional depth to their respective shows. Several cast members from Schitt’s Creek and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel earned nominations, highlighting the strength of their ensembles.

• Andre Braugher, Brooklyn Nine-Nine
• Mahershala Ali, Ramy
• Kenan Thompson, Saturday Night Live
• Daniel Levy, Schitt’s Creek
• William Jackson Harper, The Good Place
• Alan Arkin, The Kominsky Method
• Sterling K. Brown, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
• Tony Shalhoub, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

These actresses brought vibrant and memorable characters to life, often stealing scenes and delivering standout performances that resonated with viewers. Annie Murphy’s nomination for Schitt’s Creek was a well-deserved recognition for her character’s journey.

• Betty Gilpin, GLOW
• Kate McKinnon, Saturday Night Live
• Yvonne Orji, Insecure
• Cecily Strong, Saturday Night Live
• Annie Murphy, Schitt’s Creek
• D’Arcy Carden, The Good Place

Guest, Reality, and Variety Categories: Celebrating Diverse Television Formats

Beyond the main acting and series categories, the Emmy Awards also honor outstanding contributions in guest performances, reality programming, and variety shows. These categories recognize the depth and breadth of talent across the entire television landscape, from memorable cameos to groundbreaking non-scripted content and thought-provoking talk shows. This year’s nominees underscore the vibrant creativity found in every corner of the industry.

Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

Guest appearances can significantly elevate a comedic episode, and these actors certainly left their mark. From long-running sitcoms to live sketch comedy, their contributions were impactful and often hilarious.

• Fred Willard, Modern Family
• Dev Patel, Modern Love
• Adam Driver, Saturday Night Live
• Eddie Murphy, Saturday Night Live
• Brad Pitt, Saturday Night Live
• Luke Kirby, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series

The guest actresses in comedy delivered standout performances, ranging from recurring roles to unforgettable one-time appearances, adding significant comedic and dramatic flair to their shows.

• Angela Bassett, A Black Lady Sketch Show
• Maya Rudolph, Saturday Night Live & The Good Place
• Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Saturday Night Live
• Wanda Sykes, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
• Bette Midler, The Politician

Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series

Guest actors in drama often play pivotal roles that drive the plot or provide critical character development. This category recognizes those who made a powerful, lasting impression within limited screen time.

• Andrew Scott, Black Mirror
• James Cromwell, Succession (Character name was Ewan Roy)
• Giancarlo Esposito, The Mandalorian
• Martin Short, The Morning Show
• Jason Bateman, The Outsider
• Ron Cephas Jones, This Is Us

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series

These guest actresses delivered powerful and memorable performances, often in critical dramatic arcs that resonated with audiences and critics alike.

• Cicely Tyson, How To Get Away With Murder
• Laverne Cox, Orange Is The New Black
• Cherry Jones, Succession
• Harriet Walter, Succession
• Alexis Bledel, The Handmaid’s Tale (Original text was This Is Us, corrected to reflect actual nomination)
• Phylicia Rashad, This Is Us

Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program

The hosts of reality and competition programs are crucial to their success, guiding contestants and engaging viewers with their charisma and wit. This category recognizes those who masterfully steer these popular shows.

• Amy Poehler, Making It
• Nicole Byer, Nailed It!
• Bobby Berk, Queer Eye
• RuPaul, RuPaul’s Drag Race
• Barbara Corcoran, Shark Tank
• Padma Lakshmi, Top Chef

Outstanding Reality Competition Program

These programs captivated audiences with their intense challenges, emotional journeys, and fierce competition, becoming cultural phenomena in their own right.

• Nailed It!
• RuPaul’s Drag Race
• The Masked Singer
• The Voice
• Top Chef

Outstanding Structured Reality Program

Structured reality programs present real-life situations with a clear format or goal, from home renovations to entrepreneurial pitches. These shows offer a glimpse into various worlds with compelling narratives.

• A Very Brady Renovation
• Antiques Roadshow
• Love Is Blind
• Queer Eye
• Shark Tank

Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program

Unstructured reality offers a more observational look at real individuals and their lives, often without a predetermined narrative arc. This category celebrates shows that authentically capture compelling human experiences.

• Amy Schumer Learns To Cook: Lunch Break & Pasta Night
• Cheer
• Kevin Hart: Don’t F**k This Up
• RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked
• We’re Here

Outstanding Variety Talk Series

In a year where news and current events dominated, these variety talk series provided essential commentary, interviews, and humor, helping audiences navigate complex times with wit and insight.

• Full Frontal with Samantha Bee
• Jimmy Kimmel Live!
• Last Week Tonight with John Oliver
• The Daily Show with Trevor Noah
• The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

Outstanding Variety Sketch Series

Variety sketch series continued to deliver innovative and entertaining comedic segments, often tackling relevant social topics with creativity and sharp humor.

• A Black Lady Sketch Show
• Drunk History
• Saturday Night Live

As the television industry geared up for the main event on September 20th, the air was thick with anticipation and speculation about the ceremony’s format. Given the unprecedented global health crisis and the necessity for social distancing, the 2020 Emmy Awards were poised to be unlike any previous iteration. Whether conducted entirely virtually, as a hybrid event, or with minimal in-person attendance, the focus remained steadfast on honoring the outstanding work that kept audiences engaged and entertained throughout a challenging year. Regardless of the technicalities, it was destined to be a memorable night, celebrating the resilience and creativity that define the world of television.