2025 Emmys Guest Actor/Actress (Comedy and Drama) Predictions

The awards season is always an exciting time for fans and critics alike, as we eagerly anticipate the nominees and winners of prestigious awards like the Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, and Tony Awards. The official predictions for these upcoming ceremonies are curated by Variety’s senior awards editor, Clayton Davis, and are updated every Thursday to reflect the current standings in the race.

This year, the guest acting categories at the Emmys are shaping up to be particularly competitive, with HBO Max emerging as a frontrunner. The streaming service has lined up heavy-hitters from shows like “The White Lotus,” “The Last of Us,” and “Hacks,” featuring talented actors like Scott Glenn, Kaitlyn Dever, Catherine O’Hara, Jeffrey Wright, and Julianne Nicholson.

But Apple TV+ is also making a strong case in the guest comedy actor race with its workplace satire “The Studio.” Bryan Cranston leads the pack, supported by industry legends like Ron Howard and Martin Scorsese. Additionally, actresses like Sarah Polley and Zoë Kravitz are also in contention for their standout performances.

“Saturday Night Live” is looking to make a mark this year, with Martin Short and Timothée Chalamet potentially receiving nominations for their hosting gigs. The show’s star-studded lineup also includes Dave Chappelle, John Mulaney, and Mike Myers, making it a reunion special of sorts.

One interesting development to watch out for is Beau Bridges’ potential nomination in the guest drama actor category. Bridges could be the key to securing a win for his co-star Kathy Bates in “Matlock,” as history has shown that his previous nominations have led to wins for his colleagues. With three individual Emmys under his belt, Bridges is a respected figure in the industry and could be the lucky charm Bates needs to secure her victory.

As the TV awards season progresses, the list of predicted nominees and contenders will be updated regularly on Variety’s Awards Circuit section. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as we approach the exciting award ceremonies ahead. The Primetime Emmy Awards, also known as the Emmys, are prestigious awards presented by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (ATAS) to honor outstanding achievements in American primetime television. Established in 1949, the Emmys recognize excellence in various categories, including performance, production, artistry, and technological advancements.

One of the categories at the Emmys is Guest Actor (Comedy), which showcases talented actors who make memorable appearances in comedy series. This year, the award went to Jon Bernthal for his role in “The Bear” on FX, specifically for the episode titled “Fishes.” Bernthal’s performance captivated audiences and critics alike, earning him this well-deserved recognition.

In the Guest Actress (Comedy) category, the winner was Jamie Lee Curtis for her role in “The Bear” on FX, also for the episode “Fishes.” Curtis’s comedic timing and exceptional acting skills impressed the Emmy voters, leading to her victory in this competitive category.

Moving on to the Guest Actor (Drama) category, Néstor Carbonell took home the award for his role in “Shōgun” on FX, particularly for his performance in the episode “Anjin.” Carbonell’s portrayal of his character resonated with viewers and critics, showcasing his versatility as an actor and earning him this prestigious accolade.

In the Guest Actress (Drama) category, the Emmy was awarded to Michaela Coel for her role in “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” on Prime Video, specifically for the episode “Infidelity.” Coel’s powerful and nuanced performance in this drama series impressed the Emmy voters, solidifying her status as a talented and versatile actress.

The Primetime Emmy Awards are a celebration of talent and creativity in the television industry. With over 20,000 members in the Television Academy across various professional peer groups, the Emmys represent the pinnacle of achievement for those working in television. Each year, the Emmys highlight the best performances, productions, and innovations in the industry, showcasing the diverse and dynamic landscape of primetime television.

Overall, the Emmys are a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in creating exceptional television content. The winners in the Guest Acting categories represent the best of the best, showcasing their talent and skill in bringing characters to life on screen. As the television industry continues to evolve and innovate, the Emmys will remain a prestigious and sought-after accolade for all those working in the field.