Stars react to their 2020 Emmy nominations

VH1; HBO; Sabrina Lantos/FX

This year's Emmy nominations are here, even if host Leslie Jones and presenters Laverne Cox, Josh Gad, and Tatiana Maslany were not able to announce them together in one big press conference as usual.

While a global pandemic keeping everyone inside hasn't changed the usual suspects too much, with shows like Ozark and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel scoring big nominations, the 2020 pool expanded to finally include established shows like Insecure and What We Do in the Shadows.

Check out the nominees’ reactions below — we’ll be updating as the day goes on — and see the full list of nominations here.

The 72nd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards will air on ABC at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on Sunday, Sept. 20.

Better Call Saul (Outstanding Drama Series)

Giancarlo Esposito (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series)

“I am completely blown away as I wasn't aware nominations were being announced today. This double nomination for Better Call Saul and The Mandalorian comes as the most delightful, overwhelming surprise. I am honored to be recognized by the Television Academy, and want to give thanks to my Better Call Saul and The Mandalorian families whose tireless work I am continually in awe of. I am in gratitude for this incredible honoring.”

Killing Eve (Outstanding Drama Series)

Sandra Oh (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series)

Ozark (Outstanding Drama Series)

Chris Mundy (executive producer/showrunner)

“We all feel so lucky to get to do Ozark. It's been a labor of love for all of us, across every part of production. So, to realize that some of that feeling shows through and to have it recognized by the members of the TV Academy in so many different categories makes us all extra appreciative.”

Ben Semanoff (Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series)

“I am so unbelievably honored to be nominated for an Emmy for my work on Ozark, and proud of everyone in the Ozark family for their outstanding contributions. It is humbling to be amongst such an impressive group of directors. I am grateful for the support, and encouragement of Chris Mundy, MRC, Netflix, and of course Jason Bateman who has been, and continues to be, a graciously generous collaborator. Working on this series has been the highlight of my career.”

Stranger Things (Outstanding Drama Series)

The Duffer Brothers (creators/directors)

“Wow, what a start to the day! Thank you so much to the Academy for this incredible honor, and for continuing to show such amazing support for Stranger Things. It took an army of passionate, talented artists to bring season 3 to life, and we’re particularly thrilled to see so many of our behind-the-scenes artists — sound, VFX, editors, music, and stunts — recognized for their amazing work. From all of us on team Stranger — thank you!!”

Shawn Levy (executive producer/director)

“It is a tremendous honor to have our show and third season recognized by The Television Academy alongside such great series and storytellers. Working alongside the brilliant Duffer Brothers continues to be one of the great honors and joys of my career, and our cast and crew is deeply grateful for this acknowledgment.”

Succession (Outstanding Drama Series)

Jeremy Strong (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series)

“It's hard to put into words how much this means to me. Being recognized at this level in the company of so many Giants is an indescribable honor. It is something I have hoped for, impossibly, my whole life. The bar is so high on television right now — there is so much genuine and brilliant work, so much fellow talent that I am in awe of — that I feel humbled and proud to be able to contribute a single sound to this great symphony of my peers. Congratulations to the whole Succession family. But mainly, #teamkendall.”

Matthew MacFadyen (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series)

“I’d just like to say, from the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of my beloved fellow actors, thank you. Thank you for the chicken.”

Nicholas Braun (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series)

"What an amazing day, I am so excited for my whole Succession family! Playing Greg is so damn fun, and I’m deeply thankful and honored to be recognized for it. I’m going to drink a rosé that is 'not my favorite' to celebrate!"

Kieran Culkin (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series)

"It’s me and Matthew and Nick in this category. Yeah. It’s kind of nuts. I’m going to have to kick Nick Braun in the balls if he beats me that’s all." (Read more of Culkin's reaction in an exclusive interview with EW)

The Crown (Outstanding Drama Series)

Peter Morgan (creator)

"This is really wonderful news, and I want to thank everyone on the team that works so hard to produce The Crown. Humbling news too, of course, in the context of the extraordinary times in which we are living.”

Helena Bonham Carter (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series)

"I am thrilled to receive an Emmy nomination. Margaret was a gift of a part and was a dream job. This is icing on the most full fat delicious cake I’ve ever eaten. Also given these past few months I have become ever more grateful to my television. It has been my window to the world. And I’m so thankful to the parts that television are now offering to women. We all know middle-age is when we get interesting and it’s so great that stories are being made where we are invited to lead rather than retire to being the mother or grandmother in the background....Women of all ages and colour have never had it better. Thank you, Telly!"

The Handmaid's Tale (Outstanding Drama Series)

Bruce Miller (creator)

"We are beyond grateful to the Television Academy for this nomination, it’s a testament to the lasting relevance of Margaret Atwood’s book 30 years after it was published, and an honor to be recognized for our extrapolation of her world. I’m incredibly proud of our cast, crew, writers, directors, and producers for their hard work and thrilled for our team to receive this recognition."

Bradley Whitford (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series)

“I’m so grateful to the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, to everyone on The Handmaid’s Tale team here and in Toronto, and especially to the heart and soul of the operation, Lizzie Moss. I can’t wait for the day when we can all get back to the joyous, difficult work of telling stories together. In the meantime, in the name of all that is holy, please make sure you are registered to vote on Nov. 3. Check your status today at vote.org. Stay safe.”

Samira Wiley (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series)

“During these very uncertain times, it is moving to be reminded of the impact of telling stories about such brave and fearless women. And to be in the company of such talented women is a great honor. Thank you to Hulu, MGM, and the cast and crew.”

The Mandalorian (Outstanding Drama Series)

Jon Favreau (creator)

“It’s such an honor to be recognized amongst so many wonderful shows. We had a great time making it and being nominated is an unexpected bonus. Congratulations to the incredibly talented cast & crew on The Mandalorian for their hard work, and to our partners at Disney+ and Lucasfilm. Thank you to the Television Academy from all of us for embracing the show.”

Kathleen Kennedy (executive producer)

“I am so proud of everyone who contributed to make these Emmy nominations possible and am thankful to be working with such a talented group of people. Disney+ took a big risk with us on The Mandalorian and I can’t thank them enough. The creative brilliance of Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni coupled with the incredible innovations of ILM and Skywalker Sound truly made our first Star Wars live-action series groundbreaking. Much gratitude to Bob Iger for launching a platform which inspired an enormous rush of creativity among Lucasfilm storytellers, artists, and engineers. I can't wait to see 'the Child' in his tux!"

Dave Filoni (writer/director)

“It's so exciting to see the nominations knowing how hard the entire team worked to bring The Mandalorian and the Child to life. I'm just so happy for everyone involved. There are so many great stories to tell in the galaxy far, far away. The nominations for The Mandalorian and Star Wars Resistance prove what the fans already know. Star Wars is forever. Congratulations to everyone, may the Force be with you.”

Big Little Lies 

Meryl Streep (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series)

"Thank you!!! I am very honored to be in the company of such gifted women, who have helped us all get through this screen centered moment in time!"

Euphoria

Zendaya (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series)

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Labrinth (Outstanding Music Composition For A Series: Original Dramatic Score; Outstanding Original Music And Lyrics)

Homeland 

Lesli Linka Glatter (Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series)

“Just stepped out of the shower to the wonderfully unexpected news. Homeland has been the most amazing creative journey with a truly sublime team and I’m beyond grateful to have been part of it... and of course, I’m thrilled and humbled by this nomination”

Pose

Billy Porter (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series)

“It’s a blessing and a gift to be part of this moment where my art and my activism meet. Pose represents hope and is a reminder of how powerful ‘we-the-people’ are!”

This Is Us

Sterling K. Brown (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series)

Ron Cephas Jones (Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series)

"What a humbling feeling to be recognized by the academy once again for my work on This Is Us. It's been a privilege to work with this talented cast and crew. This show is one that keeps on giving and I’m forever grateful to be a part of it. Big congrats to my on-screen son, Sterling K. Brown and Phylicia Rashad on their nominations."

The Morning Show

Michael Ellenberg (executive producer)

“I am so grateful to the members of the Television Academy for recognizing The Morning Show with eight nominations in its first season. Thank you to Apple TV+, Hello Sunshine and Echo Films for their incredible partnership, and to the entire cast and crew who worked so hard on this remarkable show.”

Billy Crudup (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series)

“I am incredibly proud and grateful to collaborate on this show with all the talent and support you could imagine and to be nominated by the academy alongside so many actors that I esteem is a real privilege.”

Mimi Leder (Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series)

“I am thrilled and beyond blown away to receive this recognition alongside a group of fierce, kick-ass directors. Thank you to the Academy, Apple TV+, and my Morning Show Family who are every part of this honor. I may be getting older but… this never gets old!”

Dead to Me (Outstanding Comedy Series)

Liz Feldman (creator)

“Thank you to the Academy for recognizing Dead to Me — it’s a lifelong dream come true. I’m incredibly proud to share this moment with our amazing cast, crew and partners at CBS Studios & Netflix. I created Dead to Me as a way to work through my own grief and loss, hoping that Jen and Judy’s story might help people through theirs. For our traumedy to be honored in this way is a twist I did not see coming. It’s truly life-affirming and I’m deeply grateful.”

Christina Applegate (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series)

Linda Cardellini (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series)

“I am thrilled and humbled to be nominated this morning with all of these incredible women whom I admire so much. Especially my dear friend and partner in crime Christina Applegate. You’re my person. I feel so fortunate to collaborate every day with all of the incredible women who run this show. Liz Feldman, thank you for your genius and for giving life to ‘Jen and Judy.’ What a wild ride. This show is truly a team effort and I am so grateful to everyone involved. Especially our hardworking cast and crew. This is a celebration of everyone’s work today. Love and congrats to all.”

Insecure (Outstanding Comedy Series)

Prentice Penny (showrunner)

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Issa Rae (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series)

Schitt's Creek (Outstanding Comedy Series)

Eugene & Dan Levy (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series and Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series)

"This morning has been the most incredible surprise. We are overwhelmed and filled with gratitude for this recognition. Unfathomably proud of our little show."

Catherine O'Hara (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series)

"I'm so happy for Daniel and Annie to have been nominated, and all our hair and makeup and wardrobe. They are equally responsible, with us, for our characters."

Annie Murphy (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series)

"It's a relief because I've already spent many years losing to Catherine O'Hara — and it's been an honor every single time. I write it on my resume, 'lost to Catherine O’Hara,' and it's an absolute treat to do that. It will be nice to lose to someone else this year."

(Read more of the Schitt's Creek cast's reaction in their exclusive interview with EW)

The Good Place (Outstanding Comedy Series)

William Jackson Harper (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series)

D'Arcy Carden (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series)

“I’m so honored to be recognized by the Television Academy, especially for this show that I love so much. Thank you endlessly to Mike Schur for creating a show that my castmates and I were so proud to be a part of. Congratulations to the whole Good Place family.”

The Kominsky Method (Outstanding Comedy Series)

Chuck Lorre (creator)

“Thank you to the members of the TV Academy for inviting us to the party! I’m guessing it’ll be on Zoom, so I can just wear the top half of my tux. I also want to congratulate Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin for their well-deserved nominations. Gentlemen, it has been such an honor to work with you both. And also a big, 'without-you-I-am-so-screwed' thank you to Al Higgins, Netflix, Warner Bros., and everyone who worked their ass off on The Kominsky Method! And lest we forget — congrats to Patti Lee for her cinematography nom for Bob Hearts Abishola! LONG LIVE NETWORK TELEVISION!”

Michael Douglas (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series)

“There's not a lot of good news these days, so I was honored to receive the nomination from my fellow academy members. An opportunity to acknowledge the wonderful writing of Chuck Lorre and Al Higgins; a spectacular cast led by Alan Arkin, who makes me look good, and the strong support of Netflix. Thank you all!"

Alan Arkin (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series)

“THIS IS THE BEST NEWS I’VE HAD SINCE GETTING LOCKED UP IN THE HOUSE FIVE MONTHS AGO.”

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Outstanding Comedy Series)

Rachel Brosnahan (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series)

“I’m grateful for the continued love for all corners of our Maisel family. I wish so much that we could be together to celebrate today but this (and some zoom cocktails) will certainly hold us over until we can get the band back together. The company we get to keep across these categories is insane. Thank you to the TV Academy!”

Alex Borstein (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series)

"I was in the middle of a weekly zoom cooking class with people from all over the globe, including my father who doesn’t actually cook anything, he just gets a kick out of watching his daughter and granddaughter make a mess in the kitchen. We were making a cheesecake, which requires the exact weight of a toddler in cream cheese, in case you were wondering. Right as we were crushing cookies to make the crust, my father let out a yelp. Thought maybe he’d accidentally sat upon his sack, but no, it was a Google Alert! Glowing, he proudly announced that I’d been nominated for an Emmy. While I am delighted and thrilled to be nominated (and in such good company) I must admit that the greatest part about it is seeing my 85-year-old father, weary from COVID-captivity, smiling and happy and hopeful. Thank you to everyone who nominated me, it’s the only gift I could give my parents that they won’t return."

Alex Borstein

What We Do in the Shadows (Outstanding Comedy Series)

Stefani Robinson (executive producer)

"What an awesome way to start the day! I am incredibly honored and elated by these nominations and am thankful to the Academy for recognizing What We Do in the Shadows. A massive thank you to the always freaky, always deranged family that is the cast and crew — there are no greater partners than them. Grateful to Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi for creating such an extraordinary world and to FX for always believing in our show."

Black-ish

Anthony Anderson (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series)

“I am honored to be nominated for an Emmy for the 6th year in a row alongside my talented co-star Tracee Ellis Ross and the costume department and hair team. We are proud of the stories we have been able to tell on black-ish and given the current climate in which we all live, our voices need to be amplified. I'd like to thank ABC for renewing our show for a full season and for keeping us on the fall line up. I also want to congratulate Live In Front Of A Studio Audience: “All In the Family” and “Good Times” for their nominations. It was a thrill to work again with that cast and crew in particular the great Norman Lear and my friend Jimmy Kimmel!”

Black Monday 

Don Cheadle (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series)

“Given that it’s been announced on a Tuesday, I hereby regretfully decline my nomination for Black Monday. I am a dayist. Been one for many years. My principles are my bedrock and sacrosanct.”

GLOW 

Betty Gilpin (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series)

The Politician

Bette Midler (Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series)

Little Fires Everywhere (Outstanding Limited Series)

Liz Tigelaar (creator)

“I am so excited — this feels completely surreal. I’m so happy for Little Fires Everywhere to be recognized and to be in company with these other incredible, ground-breaking limited series. It was such an honor to adapt Celeste’s beautiful book — and the show’s nominations are a tribute to the hard work of every single person who poured their heart and soul into it. To make a show about race and class and motherhood at this particular time was a deep honor and the best, most illuminating experience of my professional life. It’s also been such a time of grief. We have been in mourning as a show — for the loss of our beloved director, Lynn Shelton, who is missed every day, and also for the deep grief that our country is experiencing, in the wake of the wave of senseless murders of Black men and women. We are in a reckoning as a country and this show challenged us in making it and, I hope, the audience in watching it, to look at the parts of ourselves that we’re afraid to look at. The message is: we can’t not look. Thank you for seeing us — it truly means so much. I know how thrilled Lynn would be to have received this honor and as we celebrate as a show, we're holding her and her family close in our hearts."

Kerry Washington (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie)

“To be recognized in this way this morning is such an honor — but to be able to share it with my partner Pilar Savone and our Simpson Street family makes it even more meaningful.

The experiences we’ve been able to have this year were beyond our wildest dreams: working with the legendary Norman Lear and Jimmy Kimmel to bring iconic shows from the 70s to new audiences with Live In Front of a Studio Audience, to adapting American Son, a Broadway play about Black lives and police violence to Netflix, to bringing Celeste Ng’s beautiful novel Little Fires Everywhere to life with my incredible friends Reese Witherspoon, Lauren Neustadter and Liz Tigelaar.

But the tears came this morning when I heard about Lynn Shelton’s nomination for Little Fires Everywhere. I’m so incredibly grateful that the Television Academy has chosen to honor Lynn with this very deserved nomination. I know she’s celebrating in the beyond.”

Ingrid Michaelson (Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics)

“I am honored to be nominated by the Television Academy alongside such talents. Little Fires Everywhere is a show about mothers and daughters. About being a woman. About letting go and growing. I consider myself lucky to be a part of this incredible piece of art. An immense thanks to Liz Tigelaar and the rest of the Little Fires Everywhere family for their support.”

Mrs. America (Outstanding Limited Series)

Dahvi Waller (creator)

“I’m so excited for the Mrs. America nominations. I’m incredibly proud of our entire cast and crew and I’m glad they’re being recognized. It’s always been a dream of mine to get nominated for an awards show, but not have to leave my house.”

Stacey Sher (executive producer)

“I am so grateful to the Television Academy for recognizing Mrs. America. Our team has been blessed to have the support and partnership of John Landgraf and Gina Balian at FX — the best team in television — who understood that the intersectional feminist dream of representation that the ERA demands, is as vital today as it was in the '70s. I am lucky to be in the company of incredible producing partners like Cate Blanchett, Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, Coco Francini, and Dahvi Waller as well as our extraordinary cast, directors and creative technicians, who all worked tirelessly to turn our dream into a reality.”

Cate Blanchett (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie)

“My sincerest thanks to the Television Academy for recognizing Mrs. America, a series and story that is not only meaningful to me but deeply resonant to the times in which we live — times we hoped to illuminate by examining our past. It has been an extraordinary honor to collaborate with such brilliant minds as John Landgraf and Gina Balian at FX and my fellow Executive Producers, Stacey Sher, Coco Francini, Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, and Dahvi Waller. I am equally indebted to our incredible cast and crew. In a year filled with groundbreaking television storytelling and performances, it is humbling to be recognized.”

Uzo Aduba (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie)

"I am grateful to be nominated for my work in Mrs. America, and for the life of someone as remarkable as Shirley Chisholm to have been seen. This spot of sunshine, during a time of unequal measure, means so much today, and to share the nomination with my fellow castmates is just icing on an already well-frosted cake. Thank you, Academy!"

Margo Martindale (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie)

“Thank you, Television Academy, for honoring my work in Mrs. America. What a thrill! It is a joy to be in the company of these incredible women. And it was an honor and education to play Bella Abzug — what a smart, powerful woman. I’m indebted to our great writers, directors and fantastic cast — and all those sensational hats! I’m so happy! Yippee!”

Tracey Ullman (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie)

“Being a part of Mrs. America was a fantastic experience. I so wanted to work with this incredible group of people, that I went out and fought for this role. As Betty Friedan said, ‘No woman gets an orgasm from shining the kitchen floor.’ The Academy’s recognition of my portrayal is thrilling, bordering on orgasmic. Thank you.”

Unbelievable (Outstanding Limited Series)

Susannah Grant and Sarah Timberman (executive producers)

“On behalf of the entire Unbelievable team, we’re honored that the Academy has recognized our show with four Emmy nominations. We were lucky to work with great artists and craftspeople in every department and are so proud that their work is getting this attention. Unbelievable takes a hard look at sexual assault and its aftermath — a challenging subject that’s too often ignored, trivialized or exploited in media. With these nominations, the Academy sees and honors the experience of rape survivors who have felt ignored and disbelieved for way too long.

We’re extremely grateful to journalists Ken Armstrong and T. Christian Miller who reported and wrote the original article on which the show is based. We’re also forever indebted to the real people who lived the events of this story — Detectives Stacy Galbraith and Edna Hendershot, and, first and foremost, Marie — for trusting us with their story and giving us permission to share it with the world.”

Toni Collette (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie)

“I’ve been acting for thirty years now. I love telling all kinds of stories about all kinds of people. It still excites me to get up at three, four or five am to go hunt out obscure parking lots where we set up a whole new world each day. But working on something like Unbelievable makes it all the sweeter. I am so proud to be part of a ridiculously talented team telling a story that really matters. It has been a thrill for all of us knowing that this story has resonated far and wide with both women and men all around the globe. And so, I’m truly over the moon to be nominated. We must celebrate all that we can in this unstable time of real struggle.”

Unorthodox (Outstanding Limited Series)

Anna Winger (executive producer)

“All of us involved in making Unorthodox are thrilled and honored by this nomination. Thanks to our brilliant cast and crew, our passionate fans around the world, and to Netflix for supporting us on this journey.”

Shira Haas (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie)

Maria Schrader (Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie, or Special)

“I am absolutely thrilled and honored to be nominated.”

Watchmen (Outstanding Limited Series)

Damon Lindelof (creator)

"The first nomination that I saw them read off was Jeremy Irons, and my wife and I both shrieked out loud. It was all great news from there. The best part of it is not how many nominations, but it's all these people that I worked with over the course of two years, my creative partners, whether they worked in the camera department or the sound mixing or they were composing the score or doing the costumes. Obviously there's a disproportionate amount of attention that's put on the storytelling and the acting, but for so many people who put so many long hours and weekends into this, they really cared about this show." (Read more of Lindelof's reaction in an exclusive interview with EW)

Jeremy Irons (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

“Making Watchmen was a pleasure in itself. I am proud of our work, and honoured to have been selected along side the other nominees. Damon and the wonderful team he put together created something exceptional. That his creation both carried on from the '80s illustrated novel with such imagination, wit and its own particular spirit is a measure of his genius. And the series is a testament to the wonderful work of his Directors, Cast and Production Team. The fact that Watchmen illuminated what was to many an unknown and shameful period in American history is only marred by the horrible realisation that so little has changed. I am grateful for having been involved and honoured to have been nominated for my part in Watchmen.”

Regina King (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

Jovan Adepo (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

Nicole Kassell (Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie or Dramatic Special)

“Thank you so much to the Television Academy for the overwhelming recognition of Watchmen. It has been such a gift to partner with this incredible cast and crew, especially the extraordinary Damon Lindelof, to bring to screen this wild and wildly important story. And thank you to HBO for their unwavering support and belief in this show. I’m so proud that Watchmen has lived up to the words that Frank Scherma expressed today — our duty as filmmakers is to use this medium to make change. This show has truly been one of the greatest experiences of my life, allowing us all to soar creatively and grow in ways no words can describe. Regina, Jeremy, Lou, Jean, Yahya, Jovan, and the rest of our amazing cast — BRAVO — your performances are extraordinary. I’m simply gobsmacked by the roar of these accolades. Thank you!”

Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross (Outstanding Music Composition for a Limited Series, Movie or Special: Dramatic Score; Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics)

"What a morning! We’d like to thank the Television Academy for recognizing our work on Watchmen AND temporarily distracting us from American S---Show 2020™! Making Watchmen was daunting, terrifying, intimidating, ecstatic and incredibly rewarding. We emerge inspired, smarter, momentarily more confident and very proud to have been a part of it."

Hollywood 

Jeremy Pope (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

Dylan McDermott (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

"I was absolutely stunned! What an honor it is to be nominated again! I couldn’t be more thrilled! Thank you to the Television Academy for recognizing me and to Ryan Murphy and my Hollywood family."

Jim Parsons (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

"Well, this is a really sweet surprise in the middle of a really weird time in the world — thank you to the Television Academy! I’m very moved to be listed alongside such talented actors, and am eternally grateful that Ryan Murphy gave me the chance to be a part of Hollywood and to work with such an immensely gifted group of people — the whole experience was about as good as it gets and I know how fortunate I was to have taken this journey."

Holland Taylor (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

"If a role is a blueprint for what we do, I have to say it’s Ellen Kincaid who possessed the big goodwill for all, the big heart and the Moxie, as Ryan Murphy would put it, to capture the special feeling that would earn this nomination. So I’m grateful SHE is who I got to play. In this once in a century moment, goodwill is our real wealth. And in this year's bountiful crop of great performances, it’s a real feather in my cap to be included in this notice from the Academy, who have often been good to me. Hollywood’s designers, writers, directors and my fellow actors were all in an excited top gear this season and it shows. Certainly a glowing highlight of my career that came as a gift."

I Know This Much Is True 

Mark Ruffalo (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

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Normal People

Paul Mescal (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

"I am so utterly honoured to have been included in the nominations list today alongside such immense actors I have admired from afar. Normal People was created by a huge cast and crew who deserve so much recognition for their incredible work. Most importantly I want to thank my amazing friend and brilliant costar Daisy Edgar-Jones as the show would not have got the extraordinary response without her electric performance."

Lenny Abrahamson (Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie or Dramatic Special)

"I’m so happy and grateful to have been nominated for my work on Normal People and delighted for Paul, Sally, Alice and Louise for having their amazing work recognised. Making the show with broadcasters as supportive as BBC and Hulu was a joy from start to finish. Sally’s novel is so rich and powerful and I’m beyond proud of the work that the whole cast and crew put in so that we could do it justice — all under the umbrella of my film making home, Element Pictures, led superbly by Ed Guiney and Andrew Lowe. All four nominations we received are a tribute to everyone who put their hearts and souls into this show. I want to pay particular tribute to Daisy Edgar Jones who gave such an extraordinary performance as Marianne — my nomination is as much for her as it is for me. I also want to thank the brilliant producers, Catherine Magee and Emma Norton who were at the heart of everything, as well as Chelsea Morgan Hoffmann whose contribution was vital, and Suzie Lavelle, dazzling director of photography, Stephen Rennicks who has provided beautiful scores for everything I’ve made, and Nathan Nugent, editor supreme and my right-hand man. Above all, my love and gratitude go to Ed Guiney whose wisdom, skill and spirit animated the whole enterprise."

Self Made: Inspired By The Life of Madam C.J. Walker

Octavia Spencer (Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie)

“This is my first individual Emmy nomination and I am humbled and grateful to the Television Academy for this incredible honor and for recognizing the importance of this story. Today, more than ever, we all have a responsibility to enlighten, educate and entertain an audience and it was a privilege for me personally to portray Madam C.J. Walker, someone who resonated so deeply with me on every level. Thank you to Netflix, Springhill, Warner Bros. Television and Wonder Street Entertainment for being such great partners on this passion project.”

American Son (Outstanding Television Movie)

Kenny Leon (director)

“It is indeed an honor to have worked on American Son with this wonderful cast. The film is not only a precious work of art, but an important reminder to America of how far we yet have to go.”

Bad Education (Outstanding Television Movie)

Hugh Jackman (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

“I’m humbled by the nominations for both me and the film and excited to be named with such a talented group of actors. My immense appreciation goes out to all those who believed in Bad Education — especially the hardworking team at HBO.”

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. The Reverend (Outstanding Television Movie)

Tituss Burgess (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie)

“This one strikes differently. It’s been a rough year for all of us. This honor is about more than acknowledgment. It’s about motivation to be my most authentic self so I can create authentic work. This news has lifted me in ways I did not anticipate! Much love and gratitude to the Academy and my Kimmy family.”

Black Mirror: "Smithereens"

Andrew Scott (Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series)

“I had such a great time playing this extraordinary part in Black Mirror. Thank you so much to the Television Academy for honouring me in this way, and to Damson, Topher, Charlie, Annabel, James and the gang for being such brilliant collaborators.”

A Black Lady Sketch Show (Outstanding Variety Sketch Series)

Robin Thede (creator and star)

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Angela Bassett (Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series)

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Drunk History (Outstanding Variety Sketch Series)

Derek Waters (co-creator/EP/director/host)

“What a great feeling! Drunk History always sets out to top the prior season, this was the hardest we’ve ever worked. So thankful to the incredible crew who the show would be lost without, they earned this nomination. Cheers!”

Saturday Night Live (Outstanding Variety Sketch Series)

Eddie Murphy (Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series)

“I want to thank the Television Academy for this morning’s nomination. It was an incredibly special feeling to return to the SNL stage after so many years, and I’m gratified that the show was so well received. Knowing the collaboration that goes into putting SNL on the air every week the way that I do, it goes without saying that I share this nomination with Lorne and all of the SNL cast, writers and crew who helped bring the show together. It was a great homecoming for me.”

The Daily Show With Trevor Noah (Outstanding Variety Talk Series)

Jen Flanz (executive producer/showrunner)

"I am incredibly proud of each and every member of our team at The Daily Show. We have a ton of fun creating content to put out into the world, and it’s humbling to know that Trevor and the show are really resonating with people."

Trevor Noah (executive producer and host)

The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (Outstanding Variety Talk Series)

Stephen Colbert (executive producer and host)

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Live In Front of a Studio Audience: “All In the Family” and “Good Times” (Outstanding Variety Special: Live)

Norman Lear and Brent Miller (executive producers)

"We couldn’t be more excited and humbled by the Television Academy‘s 4 nominations this morning. We are deeply grateful to Sony Pictures Television and ABC for their ongoing support of this series — and let us not forget this special aired the night of Trump’s impeachment. With 98 days left until the election, and the day after one of us turned 98, it all seems so poetic. Of course, none of this would have been possible without the amazing Jimmy Kimmel. So thanks to him, our incredible cast and crew, and everyone involved in making this show."

Super Bowl LIV Halftime Show Starring Jennifer Lopez & Shakira (Outstanding Variety Special: Live)

Jennifer Lopez (performer)

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Shakira (performer)

Tiffany Haddish: Black Mitzvah (Outstanding Variety Special: Pre-Recorded)

Tiffany Haddish (writer/star)

BoJack Horseman (Outstanding Animated Program)

Raphael Bob-Waksberg (creator)

“I'm so excited they're apparently still doing the Emmys this year! That's wild!! Are we sure about this???”

The Simpsons (Outstanding Animated Program)

Nancy Cartwright (Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance)

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RuPaul's Drag Race (Outstanding Competition Program)

RuPaul (Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program)

"Thank you Television Academy. I am humbled and grateful to work with the best queens, cast, and crew in television. In the face of a global pandemic, they persevered to complete this exceptional season with style, innovation and grace. Hearing how our show continues to bring joy and light to so many during this dark time has been the greatest gift of all. Together with World of Wonder and VH1, I dedicate these nominations to anyone who has been told you’re too queer, too black, or too different to achieve your dreams."

Tom Campbell (executive producer)

"Thank you Television Academy for recognizing the labor of love that is RuPaul’s Drag Race. It is a joy to produce a show that is both shamelessly entertaining and deeply authentic and a privilege to provide a platform for drag artists’ voices to be heard around the globe. A special thank you to Chris McCarthy and our treasured partners at VH1. None of this would be possible without our fearless leader, RuPaul, whose foresight, courage, and message of love inspire us to do better every season."

The Masked Singer (Outstanding Competition Program)

Craig Plestis (executive producer)

​“I’m so elated for the entire Masked Singer family! We’re so proud to make a show that brings joy to so many people, and this morning’s nomination is just icing on our bright, colorful, furry & feathery singing cake! Thank you to the TV Academy and to our fans, this is such an incredible boost as we put the final touches on this season’s new costumes! Thank you, thank you – as we say on The Masked Singer, protect your identity and your health so please keep your mask on!”

Top Chef (Outstanding Competition Program)

Padma Lakshmi (Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program)

“How exciting that Top Chef is nominated again this year! So proud of our entire cast and crew that continue to work so hard on our beloved show. Thank you to the Academy, for also nominating me again in the host category. I am beyond humbled.”

Tom Colicchio (Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program)

“After 18 years the show is still going strong and it’s always special that our peers in the academy continue to recognize our contribution to great TV.”

Gail Simmons (judge)

"This season was particularly meaningful to all of us — from producers to chefs and judges to our incredible crew — not only because it was All Stars and allowed us to showcase such an extraordinary level of talent, creativity and diversity by our returning chefs, but in the midst of a pandemic that has challenged the restaurant industry physically, emotionally and economically on so many levels, Top Chef Season 17 provided a moment of hope, comfort, triumph and solidarity, for us and our viewers alike. It aired as a weekly reminder to support and take care of each other, share our cultures and our tables, and be true to ourselves. I’m immensely proud of this season and grateful to be part a show that has proven its ability for innovation, entertainment and integrity, year over year over year."

Cheer (Outstanding Reality Program)

Greg Whiteley (executive producer/director)

“When we landed in Corsicana, Texas a year ago to begin filming Cheer, it would've never occurred to any of us that we’d be nominated for an Emmy — let alone six. We feel like we just made mat. We are incredibly grateful to the TV Academy for recognizing this series, and to the Navarro College Cheer team for letting us into their world and allowing us to share their stories."

Monica Aldama (head coach of the Navarro College Cheer Team)

Gabi Butler (Navarro College Cheer Team member)

Queer Eye (Outstanding Structured Reality Program)

David Collins and Jennifer Lane (creators)

“We are beyond excited, humbled and proud to receive these seven Emmy nominations for Queer Eye, and couldn't be happier that the Fab Five have been recognized in the Outstanding Host category! We set out to bridge divides with empathy and joy and the recognition of that work by fans across the globe and the Academy is truly rewarding. Thank you! "

Jonathan Van Ness, Antoni Porowski, Bobby Berk, Karamo Brown, and Tan France (Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program)

We're Here (Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program)

Johnnie Ingram and Stephen Warren (creators)

"We’re Here is about sparking much needed conversations across the country. It’s about spreading love, changing lives and educating small communities through the transformative power of drag. This Emmy nomination is for our queens digging their heels into these small towns, for our talented and creative crew, and the many families and communities that we’ve impacted along our journey. This nomination is for the LGBTQ2S people and people of color struggling to find their voices, but just know that WE’RE HERE, WE’RE QUEER and WE’RE NOT GOING ANYWHERE."

Shangela (co-host)

"Can you believe it? I went from throwing drinks in Untucked to now being in a category nominated alongside it for an Emmy. I’m so happy to see drag recognized in whatever show it is, on whatever platform, because it gives us space and a visibility to our stories. Look at us drag queens, honey! We own 51 percent of this category!" (Read more of Shangela's reaction in an exclusive interview with EW)

VICE (Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series or Special)

Beverly Chase & Subrata De (executive producers)

“It’s so gratifying to see this fearless reporting recognized with an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series or Special. The intrepid journalists at VICE News took on the stories that are defining our time — from COVID-19’s devastating path to the uprising in the streets of Minneapolis, to refugee camps in Syria. Journalism has never been more vital and we’re so glad it is being honored today.”

Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness (Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series)

Eric Goode and Rebecca Chaiklin (Outstanding Directing For A Documentary/Nonfiction Program)

“Thank you to the Television Academy. It is a huge honor to be nominated amongst such great documentaries. And many thanks to our amazing team!”

Becoming (Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special)

Tonia Davis and Priya Swaminathan (executive producers)

"We are so proud of Nadia and Becoming, a film about Michelle Obama's belief in the power of sharing our stories and connecting with each other. Thank you to the Television Academy for this honor and to Netflix for believing in Higher Ground's vision to make work grounded in empathy, connection and community."

Nadia Hallgren (Outstanding Directing for a Documentary/Nonfiction Program; Outstanding Cinematography for a Documentary/Nonfiction Program)

"The opportunity to share the story of Michelle Obama, the first Black First Lady, is bigger than anything I could have dreamed. Releasing Becoming during this particular moment in history added an unexpected and an even deeper meaning to it all. Thank you to the Television Academy for this recognition, and thank you to our collaborators at Higher Ground Productions and Netflix. Our team is honored to receive this very special nomination!"

The Black Godfather 

Pharrell Williams (Outstanding Music and Lyrics)

"It's an honor to share the legend of Clarence Avant, a man who has never stopped fighting for social justice in entertainment, athletics and politics. His impact on culture connects us all. Thank you to the TV Academy and thank you to the incredible Nicole Avant, Reginald Hudlin and Netflix for sharing the story of The Black Godfather."

Serengeti

Lupita Nyong'o (Outstanding Narrator)

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Reno 911! (Outstanding Short Form Comedy or Drama Series)

Thomas Lennon (executive producer and star)

“I am overjoyed. I know everyone at Reno 911 & Quibi are really honored by this recognition. It’s especially thrilling for us since we haven’t be nominated for anything since a Cable Ace Award in 1995.”

#FreeRayshawn

Laurence Fishburne (Outstanding Actor in a Short Form Comedy or Drama Series)

“It’s a great honor to be nominated along with my fellow cast members Stephan and Jasmine. Given the current focus on police reform in our country, I find #FreeRayshawn to be very timely and thought-provoking. It is both an entertaining and important series and my gratitude goes out to Antoine Fuqua, Seith Mann and the team at Quibi and Sony Television for supporting it from start to finish.”

Forky Asks a Question (Outstanding Short Form Animated Program)

Bob Peterson (writer/director)

“I’m so honored that the Television Academy recognized Forky Asks a Question with an Emmy Award nomination today. I so appreciate the support from Pixar and Disney+! Like Forky, I have a question — how was I so lucky to work with such a great team and cast? My next question is — what the heck IS love?"

Tony Hale (star)

"Thrilled the geniuses at Pixar and Disney plus got a nomination for Forky Asks a Question! Love that Spork."

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