Lead Actress in a Limited Series or TV Movie is all but won. But I guess we can still predict nominees.
Lead Actress in a Limited Series or TV Movie is already won. So, predicting the nominations is probably a little boring. Sarah Paulson (The People v. O.J. Simpson) has had such high notices for her performances that she would already naturally be the frontrunner. But add in the fact that she is in one of the most buzzed about shows of the last few years and that she can submit her tour de force episode “Marcia, Marcia, Marcia” and you have a winner.
The only actress I can see giving her any competition is Kirsten Dunst (Fargo). Her show is looking to be the bridesmaid to O.J.’s bride and it’s no different in this category. Before O.J. premiered Dunst was the easy winner and that buzz can still push her over, but it’s unlikely.
Another lock for a nomination is Kerry Washington (Confirmation). She lucked out because if this category was as competitive as the lead actor category she would have not been a lock by any means. Her movie wasn’t as well-received as the other contenders in this category, however the role is an important high-profile historical figure whose story is unfortunately timely.
Both ladies from American Crime, Lilli Taylor and Felicity Huffman, should be good for nominations. Taylor more so than Huffman simply because she has the more baity role. However, Huffman had a nomination last year, which keeps her in contention.
The last spot is going to be tricky. Nearly every pundit has Audra McDonald (Lady’s Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill) in for her repeat performance in her Tony-winning role. However, I just don’t see her being that big of a lock. Her name just doesn’t seem enough to push her over and the movie isn’t enough for it to help her much. Plus, when she was predicted for The Sound of Music, it didn’t work out. However, what she does have working for her is the fact that the category this year is relatively weak. That’s why I’m keeping her in.
The one contender outside of these six we have to look out for is Lady Gaga (American Horror Story: Hotel). This installment of Horror Story doesn’t seem like it’s going to make as big of a splash at the Emmys as the ones in the past. However, they’ve never missed a nomination in this category. Whether or not that’s because the only contenders have been Jessica Lange and Paulson is yet to be seen. But coming off a strong year, I can see voters going with her.
Doesn’t matter though since Paulson winning, right?
Check out my 2016 Emmy Predictions!
My Predictions:
Kirsten Dunst (Fargo)
Felicity Huffman (American Crime)
Audra McDonald (Lady’s Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill)
Sarah Paulson (The People v. O..J. Simpson)
Lilli Taylor (American Crime)
Kerry Washington (Confirmation)
Hey, I'm Karl, founder and film critic at Smash Cut. I started Smash Cut in 2014 to share my love of movies and give a perspective I haven't yet seen represented. I'm also an editor at The New York Times, a Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic, and a member of the Online Film Critics Society.