The 68th Emmy Awards nominations are out.
Here’s how the stars reacted to the nomination news:
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series
Bob Odenkirk of “Better Call Saul”: “Wow I am blown away! I am surrounded by excellence on ‘Better Call Saul’ and to
be picked out of that line-up is a crazy honor. This unique show, with no
genre behind it – just honest character exploration, surprises me over and
over. The fact that TV fans and critics are welcoming this unpredictable
journey – it’s simply inspiring. Thank you.”
Kyle Chandler of “Bloodline”: “I am flabbergasted and thankful. It’s a
nomination for everyone who makes up ‘Bloodline.’ And that’s a big family of
great folks. Pretty nifty way to start the day. “
Liev Schreiber of “Ray Donovan”: “Big love to the Academy and my amazing cast and
crew. Feels great to be acknowledged by my peers!”
Rami Malek of “Mr. Robot”: “I couldn’t be more honored to
receive this nomination. To be included among of list of actors whose work I’ve
admired for years is truly humbling. I’m so grateful for the brilliant Sam
Esmail who brought Elliot to life and has allowed me to play a role one could
only dream of. Thank you to the cast, crew, USA Network and Universal Cable
Productions. And, of course, to the Academy.”
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series Nominees
Tatiana Maslany of “Orphan Black”: “I feel truly humbled and honored to be nominated for this year’s Emmys. I’ve been lucky enough to spend the last four years doing a job I adore and I’m very grateful to the creators of our show and to the tireless team who help make it come alive. The show wouldn’t be possible, though, without the support of our extraordinary passionate fans. This nomination means so much to me and to all of us at ‘Orphan Black.’ Thank you to the Academy!”
Viola Davis of “How to Get Away with Murder”:
Wow, again, what an honor. Thank you @televisionacademy! https://t.co/tTuuFyzmiP
— Viola Davis (@violadavis) July 14, 2016
PHOTOS: Emmys 2016: Outstanding Drama Series Nominees
Outstanding Drama Series Nominees
Julian Fellowes, Creator/Writer/Executive Producer of “Downton Abbey”: “I’m thrilled and amazed
and honoured that the show has been so generously recognized in its final year.
It’s a wonderful goodbye for everyone involved.”
Gareth Naeme, Executive Producer of “Downton Abbey”: “I’m so
thankful to the members of the Television Academy for embracing and honoring ‘Downton Abbey’ from the beginning, and joining us on the journey of the Crawley
family and those who serve them. To receive our fifth consecutive Emmy
nomination for Outstanding Drama Series, along with our other nominations, is
an incredible way to goodbye.”
Sam Esmail, Executive Producer of “Mr. Robot”: “The entire team at ‘Mr. Robot’ is thrilled with our nominations this morning. Today is officially shoot day 80
for season two and we couldn’t be happier to hear the news from set. We are
humbled and honored to be in the company of such innovative, groundbreaking
storytelling. On behalf of the cast and crew who continue to work tirelessly to
make this show, as well as USA Network and Universal Cable Productions, thank
you to the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.”
Beau Willimon, Executive Producer/Creator/Showrunner of “House of Cards”: “I’m grateful to the Television Academy for the nominations.
And I’m deeply grateful to all of the cast, crew, writers and producers who
have poured their collective talent and passion into ‘House of Cards’ during
the past four seasons. My hat is off to all of you.”
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie Nominees
Courtney B. Vance of “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story”: “When we finished the incredible journey of creating this groundbreaking project, ‘The People v. OJ Simpson,’ we all knew we’d created something incredibly wonderful and special together! It was an opportunity of a lifetime to work with such a dream cast and to portray a man like Johnnie Cochran. To receive an Emmy nomination today is the continuation of this phenomenal journey and is indeed a true blessing and honor. I am overjoyed that my wife, my mother, and children are here to enjoy this moment with me. Although the disease ALS has taken my mother’s ability to speak, I see joy and pride written all over her face right now. Being surrounded by my family – at this very moment – means everything to me!”
Idris Elba of “Luther”: “I am floored that I’ve been nominated but I am even more excited that ‘Luther’ has been nominated as well. The success of ‘Luther’ is so much due to the fans and I hope they are as proud of this nomination as we are. OH BOY! What a category!”
WATCH: ‘Downton Abbey’ Stars Reflect Back On When They Knew Show Was A Hit
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series Nominees
Aziz Ansari of “Master of None”: “I’m bummed the medium sized dragon
in ‘Game of Thrones’ got snubbed in Best Supporting, but happy to see ‘Master of
None’ and our entire team get acknowledged. We are thrilled!”
Jeffrey Tambor of “Transparent”: “I’m in the UK shooting a movie when the director came
over to me on the set and said ‘congratulations to you Jeffrey.’ I’m deeply
honored to be a nominee and to be in the company of such amazing actors.”
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series Nominees
Ellie Kemper of “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”: “I am so lucky to be able to work with the most brilliant
cast and crew in television, and I am honored to be included in this group of
exceptional women. I am in debt not only to the Television Academy, Netflix,
and Universal, but also to Tina Fey and Robert Carlock for creating this show
in the first place. And by the way, with this nomination, I’ve already won….a
complimentary round-trip flight to Los Angeles, plus accommodations!”
Lily Tomlin of “Grace and Frankie”: “It’s thrilling to be nominated for ‘Grace and Frankie.’ I have to salute our writers, our producers and our wonderful family of players. Especially Jane Fonda. After all, who is Frankie without Grace?”
Tracee Ellis Ross of “black-ish”:
Julia Louis-Dreyfus of “Veep”:
READ: Emmy Awards 2016: See Who’s Been Nominated!
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie Nominees
Bryan Cranston of “All the Way”: “Yeehaa!
“As LBJ would have responded to hearing about the Emmy
nominations for ‘All The Way’ this morning.
“I am thrilled that this important story was recognized in so
many areas. It was indeed a team effort. Especially delighted that my
production company Moonshot Entertainment, received its first Emmy nomination.
Thank you to all the artisans who made it possible for us to go all the way.“
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Nominees
Kerry Washington of “Confirmation”: “I’m awed by the journey we
have been on with ‘Confirmation.’ I’m deeply grateful to the academy for
acknowledging this film that so many people poured their hearts and souls into.
As both an actress and producer, I could not possibly be more proud or humbled.”
Lili Taylor of “American Crime”: “I am over the moon to hear about the nomination this
morning and to be included in such a great list of nominees this year.
I’m also thrilled that the show got nominated in its category as well. This has been one of the most positive work experiences in my life and I’m just
happy to be a working actor and grateful for the opportunity that John Ridley
entrusted to me once again this year.”
PHOTOS: ‘Game Of Thrones’: Scenes From The Season 6 Finale
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series Nominees
Kit Harington of “Game of Thrones”: “It is a serious understatement to say that I am somewhat stunned. For my work on ‘Game of Thrones’ to be recognized in this way is an emotional moment for me. I could not be more humbled.”
Michael Kelly of “House of Cards”: “The first time, I was shocked. Second time? Just
completely floored. I am so honored and grateful to be included in this group
of amazing, insanely talented people. Huge congratulations to Kevin, Robin,
Beau, Mahershala, Paul, Reg E., Ellen Molly, and everyone involved with the
show – it’s so special to be sharing this with you all. What a thrill!”
Jon Voight of “Ray Donovan”: “When I think of all the great performances out there, this nomination is
the greatest honor.
“I owe many people for this good
fortune. Certainly Liev and David, co-nominees from our show, are at the top of
the list.”
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series Nominees
Maisie Williams of “Game of Thrones”: “I am so grateful to be a part of ‘Game of Thrones,’ so to
be nominated for an Emmy is beyond words, but I would like to say thank you to
George for creating such an amazing character and to Dan, David and everyone
associated with the show who bring Arya to life.”
Lena Headey of “Game of Thrones”: “Totally
overwhelmed. Thrilled for the show receiving so many nominations…. Wahoo
!”
Constance Zimmer of “UnREAL”: “I
screamed, jumped up and down, got a little teary and screamed again. I’m so
proud to be a part of this show and so grateful to Lifetime for not taking no
for an answer.”
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series Nominees
Tituss Burgess of “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”: “I was sitting at my piano working on a new musical the
moment I heard the news. In that moment, surrounded by so much love, I felt
truly humbled to be a part of such an amazing show. Thank you to the Academy,
and thank you to the wonderful family and team that is Ellie, Jane, Carol,
Robert, and Tina.”
Keegan-Michael Key of “Key & Peele”: “I am so pleased to hear this morning’s news, and
especially for the show. Once again our amazing staff and crew has been
recognized for their countless hours of hard work, and there is no team more
deserving. What a great way to celebrate the end of ‘Key & Peele.’ The
whole thing fills my heart with joy.”
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series Nominees
Allison Janney of “Mom”: “What a great morning! I am so proud to represent ‘Mom,’ a
show that is highlighting issues that are important to so many people. It’s a
show for and about survivors who are doing the hard work of recovery every day.
“And with ‘Masters of Sex,’ I get to play a character who is so
rich with so many layers and nuances to tackle. Portraying Margaret Scully’s
journey of self-discovery has been such a
challenge and joy for me.” (Allison is also nominated for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series for “Masters of Sex.”)
Judith Light of “Transparent”: “This is a dream job with our dream team. I could not
be more excited, honored or grateful.”
WATCH: ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’: Where Does Season 2 Pick Up?
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie Nominees
Regina King of “American Crime”: “Very proud to be a part of such a talented team. John Ridley has given us the opportunity to exercise our talents in an
exceptional setting. Feeling a lot of gratitude!”
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie Nominees
David Schwimmer of “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story”: “I am totally surprised and thrilled to be nominated alongside my other cast mates, as well as the show’s writers, producers and directors.
“I’m proud to be part of such a timely and provocative series, and hope it continues to contribute to the much needed discussion of race and class in this country.”
John Travolta of “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story”: “It was a beautiful surprise to be nominated today! And I’m so proud of our 22 nominations and being part of that is truly special! What a wonderful way to come back to television.”
Sterling K. Brown of “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story”: “So this is
it! To paraphrase my favorite musical, I get to be in the room where it
happens! I am beyond thrilled to be receiving my first Emmy nomination! What an
incredible journey the last 15 years has been. Allow me to first recognize the
village that has supported me from the very beginning. My friends & family
in St. Louis, MO (Love you, Aralean Brown, aka Ma), my Stanford compatriots
(#chocolatecardinal), and my friends and faculty from the 5th floor @NYU. To my
agents at Innovative David Rose, and Allison Levy, I adore you both. To my
manager Jennifer Wiley Stockton, I wouldn’t know what to do without you. Thanks
for believing in me when I had a tough time believing in myself. And to the love
of my life, Ryan Michelle Bathe Brown, thank you for saying yes, for baring two
of the most gorgeous children in the world, and inspiring me with your insane
talent, intelligence, and passion everyday!
“Thank you
to the Television Academy for this tremendous honor. Thank you to Ryan Murphy,
Nina Jacobson, Brad Simpson, 20th Century Fox & FX for allowing yours truly
to be a part of this phenomenal team! Thank you to all our incredible writers,
including Scott Alexander, Larry Karaszewski, Joe Robert Cole, and D. V.
DeVincentis for creating a role that I could only dream of. Thanks to my
wonderful directors (already mentioned you, Mr. Murphy) John Singleton and
Anthony Hemingway for all your guidance and encouragement. And congratulations
to my fellow nominees! Dr. House himself, Hugh Laurie! My extended FX family
Bokeem Woodbine, and Jesse Plemmons. And of course my ‘American Crime Story’ brothers in arms David Schwimmer, and Vincent Vega himself, Mr. John Travolta.
Honored to be in the company of you all! And lastly, allow me to congratulate
the outstanding leads in our show, Mr. Courtney Bernard Vance, and Mr. Cuba
Gooding, Jr. And of course, the lovely and uber talented Ms. Sarah Katherine
Paulson. Love you, Darlin’! See you on the carpet!!!!!”
Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series Nominees
Bob Newhart of “The Big Bang Theory”: “An Emmy nomination is really the result of great people around you
and great writing. I remember a great line that I couldn’t wait to deliver.
After I had talked Sheldon into ‘getting it on” with Amy, I returned
uninvited and leeringly, asked ‘how did it go?’ It got a huge laugh.”
WATCH: ‘Big Bang Theory’: Jim Parsons Loves Sheldon & Amy’s Pillow Talk, Hopes For More
Other Reactions
Ryan Murphy, nominated for Outstanding Director for a Limited Series, movie or Dramatic Special for “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story”: “Working on ‘The People V. O.J. Simpson’ has been a career
highlight and its own reward, but I am especially moved by the recognition for
everyone who devoted their hearts and souls to this project—from our brilliant
cast to our amazing writers and directors to the extraordinary producers. We
are all incredibly grateful. It’s a happy day.”
LL Cool J, host of “Lip Sync Battle,” which is nominated for Outstanding Structured Reality Program: “We want to thank the Academy for this recognition. I love
hosting ‘Lip Sync Battle’ and working with such an incredible team. Having the
opportunity to bring fun and laughter into people’s home each week is the best
experience and we really do love all of our amazing guests that come to have
the best time possible.”
James Corden, whose show, “The Late Late Show with James Corden” is nominated for Outstanding Interactive Program and Outstanding Variety Talk Series”: “I am so honored that our show has received four Emmy
nominations. I am so proud of our
team. To be recognized in this way is
beyond our wildest dreams.”
Jimmy Fallon, whose show, “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” is nominated for Outstanding Variety Talk Series: “Humbled by the Emmy nominations this morning. It makes
up for getting snubbed at the ESPYs last night. #Emmys #NationalHotDogDay.”
Derek Waters, Creator & Star of “Drunk History,” which is up for Outstanding Variety Sketch Series: “Nominated for an Emmy?! Speechless. A big Thank you
to the Academy.
“Drunk history was a one time idea. The fact that this
show has come as far as it has is beyond me.
“I’m so grateful to my crew, all my friends who trusted us
to film them while they’re intoxicated. And a little thanks to alcohol for
bringing out the truth.
“This gives me hope that there will be more history in the
future. “
Padma Lakshmi, whose show, “Top Chef” is up for Outstanding Reality Competition Program: “I’m so honored and excited that after 13 seasons, our fans at the Academy are still enjoying the show as much as we enjoy making it.”
James Lipton, whose show, “Inside the Actors Studio” is nominated for Outstanding Informational Series or Special: “As strange as it may seem, all of us who are responsible for ‘Inside the Actors Studio’ are as excited about our 19th nomination as we were about our first. What a journey – for which we have our hundreds of generous and gifted guests to thank.”
— Jolie Lash
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