Dear Emmy Voters,
HBO and streamers like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Hulu have dominated the Emmys for over a decade—and in many cases, rightfully so. It’s hard to argue that HBO doesn’t deserve the bulk of nominations and wins it receives each year. But I do find myself wondering: does your favorite HBO show really need to be nominated in every single category?
Take supporting actor and actress, for example—do four cast members from The White Lotus all need to be nominated? I am not trying to pick on HBO but year after year, they deliver an embarrassment of riches with shows like Hacks, The White Lotus, The Last of Us, and many more.
What I’m asking is simple: instead of automatically voting for the most buzzed-about cable or streaming shows, why not use that final nomination slot to recognize something different—something that might not have a big campaign or is viewed as the underdog? Why not shine a light on a deserving show from a Broadcast Network?
Legacy networks helped shape the television landscape and continue to deliver quality storytelling—even if they don’t always get the same level of awards attention. So, as a proud voting member of the Television Academy and a lifelong fan of film and television, I want to take this time to spotlight a few Broadcast Network shows that I strongly recommend for your Emmy consideration:
Ghosts (CBS)

Ghosts is, in my opinion, one of the best comedies currently on television. Yet, somehow, it still hasn’t received a single Emmy nomination. That’s pretty wild, especially considering that nearly everyone I know who watches the show either enjoys it or outright loves it.
While Ghosts is often viewed as a family-friendly sitcom, it cleverly mixes in the right amount of raunchy adult humor. It’s the kind of ensemble-driven series that reminds us why the SAG Awards have a Best Cast Ensemble category—because every actor on this show brings something special to the table. With ten central characters, it is often challenging to choose a favorite.
Personally, I’ve always had a soft spot for Danielle Pinnock’s Alberta and Rose McIver’s Sam, but each season, a new favorite emerges. In Season 4, I was particularly impressed by the character work for Asher Grodman’s Trevor and Utkarsh Ambudkar’s Jay. Their comedic timing and emotional depth were undeniable highlights this season.
Since the Emmys don’t recognize an ensemble in comedy the way the SAG Awards do, I say this: let’s honor the brilliance of the Ghosts cast by giving them that final vote—whether it’s for Outstanding Comedy Series or Outstanding Casting for a Comedy Series. They’ve more than earned it.
Will Trent (ABC)

Will Trent just wrapped its third—and best—season yet. While there is plenty to admire about the series as a whole, there’s no denying that Ramón Rodríguez is its beating heart. As Will Trent, Rodríguez delivers a deeply compelling and nuanced performance in every episode, anchoring the show with emotional depth and authenticity.
What makes his work even more impressive is how he seamlessly navigates the show’s tonal shifts. Will Trent walks a fine line between sharp humor and heart pounding drama, and Rodríguez adapts beautifully, grounding the character through it all. Season 3 delivered several laugh-out-loud moments, but it was the emotionally charged episodes that ultimately stood out the most.
One episode in particular—Episode 11, “Best of Your Recollection,” written by Rebecca Murga—was a game changer. It’s arguably one of the most powerful episodes of television I’ve seen this year. The writing and performances are on par with critically acclaimed series like Severance and The Pitt, two of my other top picks this season.
With a level of storytelling more often seen in cable or streaming dramas, Will Trent deserves some Emmy love. Specifically, it should be considered for Outstanding Writing in a Drama Series, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, and Outstanding Drama Series.
If I had to choose only one category that could be recognized this season, I’d cast my vote for either Rodríguez’s remarkable lead performance or the outstanding writing—because both have elevated Will Trent beyond the traditional broadcast drama.
Shifting Gears (ABC)

Shifting Gears feels like the perfect comedy for today—smart, sharp, and surprisingly heartfelt. At a time when political discourse is more polarizing than ever, the series manages to find humor and humanity in that divide, offering something for just about everyone.
Sure, some viewers may be wary of Tim Allen’s conservative-leaning persona, but that’s exactly what makes his dynamic with Kat Dennings so amusing. Together, they’re like a modern-day Odd Couple, constantly clashing over their opposing worldviews. The chemistry between Allen and Dennings is undeniable—they feel like a real father and daughter navigating life, love, and family. As someone who leans more liberal, watching this show often reminds me of what many of us feel like at holiday gatherings with the family.
What makes Shifting Gears stand out though isn’t just the political banter—it’s the comedic storytelling and quick wit. It balances heart and humor in a way that we rarely see in most modern day network comedies, making it easy to see why it is one of ABC’s most-watched new series.
While lead actor nominations for Dennings or Allen might be a long shot given the competition, the series deserves to be considered for Outstanding Comedy Series. This is one funny sitcom that has arrived at the right time.
High Potential (ABC)

Kaitlin Olson has spent the majority of her career bringing unforgettable female characters to life on television. From her role as Dee Reynolds on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia to her Emmy-nominated guest turns on Hacks, Olson consistently proves she’s one of the most versatile and underappreciated actresses working today.
In the past five years, Olson has earned three Emmy nominations—two for Hacks and one for Outstanding Actress in a Short Form Comedy or Drama Series—but she has never taken home the Emmy. What is even more shocking, is the fact, that she was never nominated for It’s Always Sunny, one of the longest-running and most beloved comedy series of all time.
With High Potential, Olson steps into a new light—and perhaps her best role yet—as Morgan Gillory. While the series leans more dramatic than comedic, it has quickly become one of the most talked-about dramas on broadcast television. Much like Kathy Bates’ performance in CBS’s Matlock reboot, Olson’s work on High Potential is what sells and elevates the show. Her portrayal of Morgan is multi-layered and often, witty.
While Olson and Bates deliver wildly different performances, Olson’s decades of work on television speaks for itself. And with High Potential, the show has become a ratings juggernaut and I think it Is safe to say that Olson is the reason why viewers keep coming back for more.
While the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series category is very competitive, with performances like Kathy Bates (Matlock), Bella Ramsey (The Last of Us), and Britt Lower (Severance) likely locked, Kaitlin Olson deserves to be considered. She has more than earned that fifth slot—and in truth, it is kind of long overdue.
The Floor (FOX)

Game shows are my jam. Whether it’s The Quiz with Balls or Pop Culture Jeopardy!, I watch every new game show that comes out. There’s just something about the lighthearted, fast-paced nature of game shows that makes them the perfect escape—especially after a long, stressful day.
One of my absolute favorites in recent years has been The Floor, hosted by charming Rob Lowe. While it might not have the same laugh-out-loud moments of a Family Feud, The Floor is very fun and often unpredictable. With its unique format and constantly shifting dynamics, you never really know who’s going to win, and that keeps you on the edge of your seat week after week.
It’s also one of those rare game shows where you truly feel invested in the players. Some you root for. Some you will hate. But all of them bring something unique to the experience. Plus, it’s an super fun show to play along with at home, which only adds to the entertainment value.
While it’s tough to compete with the classics like Jeopardy!, Family Feud, or Wheel of Fortune, having five slots allows voters the opportunity to pick a game show that hasn’t been on for decades. The Floor is a refreshing new spin on the trivia genre and is the kind of inventive, well-executed series that should be considered for Outstanding Game Show, and Rob Lowe who lets be honest, who doesn’t love Rob Lowe? Deserves recognition for Outstanding Host for a Game Show too.
Other Options (Various Networks)

While the five above are my top recommendations, there are a few other Broadcast Network performances and series that also deserve your Emmy consideration:
Vella Lovell for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for Fox’s Animal Control — her comedic timing and character shines in every episode, making her a standout in one of FOX’s most underrated comedies.
NBC’s St. Denis Medical for Outstanding Comedy Series — a hilarious comedy that combines smart writing and a great comedic ensemble.
Joshua Jackson for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series as Dr. Max Bankman on ABC’s Doctor Odyssey — even if you don’t like the show’s campiness tone, it’s hard to deny how great Jackson is on it.
Angela Bassett, Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Peter Krause for their emotionally charged and consistently strong work on 9-1-1 — a drama that delivers unforgettable character arcs season after season.