2025 Emmy Awards Predictions: Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

The 2025 Emmy Awards season is heating up, and IndieWire is committed to providing regular updates on the latest developments in the awards race. Key dates to remember include the nomination voting period, which runs from June 12 to June 23, and the announcement of nominations on July 15. Final voting will take place from August 18, concluding on the night of the awards ceremony scheduled for September 14, airing live on CBS.

Current Landscape of the Race

The category for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series has shown remarkable consistency over the years, with many previous nominees remaining in the mix for this upcoming season. With all last year’s nominees eligible again, competition is anticipated to be intense, particularly with the introduction of strong contenders from new series.

Emerging Contenders

As of now, “Shrinking,” the Apple TV+ series, is gathering significant momentum. Its second season, which operates more independently from “Ted Lasso” due to shared creative talent, features prominent performances from Harrison Ford and Michael Urie, as well as Brett Goldstein, who has a crucial role this season.

On the horizon, Netflix’s “The Four Seasons,” debuting on May 1, is generating buzz with its ensemble cast. Notable names include Emmy winner Colman Domingo, known for his two Oscar nominations, and comedy veteran Will Forte, who is still seeking his first Emmy win. Emerging actor Marco Calvani also promises to capture attention with his standout performance.

Established Favorites

In addition to newcomers, established actors are expected to return to the race. Ebon Moss-Bacharach from “The Bear” and Paul W. Downs from “Hacks” remain strong contenders, even as their co-stars face a tougher road to nomination this year.

Recognizing achievements from “Saturday Night Live” actors is a longstanding tradition—Bowen Yang’s previous nomination being a prime example. This year, breakout star Marcello Hernández, along with veteran Kenan Thompson, might see recognition due to the show’s significant audience during its 50th anniversary special.

Diverse Competitive Field

Expect nominations to include long-time favorites from shows like “Abbott Elementary” and “Only Murders in the Building,” making room for the beloved Tyler James Williams and Paul Rudd, although their co-stars Chris Perfetti and Michael Cyril Creighton would also be deserving of recognition.

Also worth noting are new breakout roles such as Ike Barinholtz in “The Studio,” Timothy Simons in “Nobody Wants This,” and Gideon Glick in “Étoile,” all of whom come with strong performances that could sway voters’ opinions.

List of Current Contenders

• Ike Barinholtz, “The Studio” (Apple TV+)
• Marco Calvani, “The Four Seasons” (Netflix)
• Colman Domingo, “The Four Seasons” (Netflix)
• Paul W. Downs, “Hacks” (Max)
• Harrison Ford, “Shrinking” (Apple TV+)
• Zach Galifianakis, “Only Murders in the Building” (Hulu)
• Gideon Glick, “Étoile” (Prime Video)
• Brett Goldstein, “Shrinking” (Apple TV+)
• Marcello Hernández, “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
• Ebon Moss-Bacharach, “The Bear” (Hulu)
• Chris Perfetti, “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Paul Rudd, “Only Murders in the Building” (Hulu)
• Timothy Simons, “Nobody Wants This” (Netflix)
• Michael Urie, “Shrinking” (Apple TV+)
• Tyler James Williams, “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Bowen Yang, “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)

Looking Ahead

For further predictions regarding other comedy categories, keep an eye out for updates on Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, and Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. Be sure to check back with IndieWire for the latest insights on the 2025 Emmy Awards.

Additional Information

Last year’s victor was Ebon Moss-Bacharach from “The Bear,” who remains eligible for this season. A potential consecutive victory would place him among noteworthy names like John Larroquette from “Night Court” and Don Knotts from “The Andy Griffith Show.” Notably absent from this year’s race are JB Smoove from “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and Josh Lucas and Ricky Martin from “Palm Royale,” as their respective series have concluded or are not eligible this year.