Outlander – Emmy watch: Early talk on Sam Heughan, Caitriona Balfe, cast
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What is fascinating about season 4 (which will be eligible for the Emmys this year) is that you’re going to see a larger array of actors from the show than perhaps ever before. The series has established some regular cast members beyond Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe, and we also think that there’s an especially-compelling Guest Actor nomination to watch out for as well.
Drama Actress – Caitriona Balfe will be submitting of course here and, on paper, she has the best odds out of any series regular at the nod. It’s just easy to say that based on her history of nominations at the Golden Globes and she does have some fantastic episodes through season 4. For those wondering, we don’t necessarily think that being MIA for a couple of episodes hurts either her or Sam Heughan, as there have been other Best Actor/Actress nominees in the past who were not in every single episode of their show. The biggest obstacle for Balfe this year may just be competition, as well as the notion that shows sometimes a few years into their run face more obstacles.
Drama Actor – There is a contingent of people who are frustrated about the lack of acclaim thrown Sam Heughan’s way, and he’s got some iconic performances this season — “Blood of My Blood,” “The Birds & the Bees,” and “Man of Worth.” He’s definitely an underdog to get a nod this year, but the best thing he and Balfe can hope for is a momentum a la The Americans. This was a show that actually bucked some of the awards-show trends and got more popular and more nominations as time went on. We’ll see if that ends up happening here.
Supporting Actress – Sophie Skelton easily has the best case that she’s ever had, given the traumatic storyline for Brianna this past season and some of what she went through. She’s going to be a darkhorse candidate on the ballots of many in terms of the character’s resolve and sorrow. There were also some wonderful lighter scenes this season, as well, including the reunion between Brianna and Jamie. Given that this is the first year many voters may be looking at her as a serious candidate, she may feel like a fresh candidate and that could help her chances.
Lauren Lyle could end up on a ballot, but we’re not sure she had the screen time for a possible nod this year. Maria Doyle Kennedy is probably in a similar spot in terms of episode count.
Supporting Actor – There are a few possible candidates here in between John Bell, Duncan Lacroix, Cesar Domboy, and Richard Rankin. Of the three, Rankin has the best shot just because his character had the meatiest story and overcame so much throughout the season. Rankin worked to bring Roger’s intelligence to life, but also his flaws. He showcased trauma in a way that felt real, while also not losing the emotional undercurrent that makes Roger the man he is.
Guest Actor – This is where things are super-interesting to us. Tobias Menzies is about to become an Emmy favorite due to The Crown, and he did have a powerful appearance in “Down the Rabbit Hole” this season. We actually think he’s got about as good of a shot as Balfe does as a nomination this year — he may have only been in that one episode, but we could imagine Starz marketing heavily for him in this category.
Related News – Check out some more discussion on season 4’s overall ratings!
Who are your current favorite Outlander Emmy contenders? Be sure to share right now in the comments. (Photo: Starz.)