Emmy Nominations Predictions: Will Sarah Paulson, Kirsten Dunst & Lady Gaga Be Nominated Against Each Other? [POLL, VIDEO]
The Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie category at this year's Emmys could comprise of some of the most beloved actresses in Hollywood.
The Limited Series/Movie categories are surprisingly stacked this year, with numerous high-profile contenders and stars. The Lead Actress category in particular is a strong one, with some of the most acclaimed performances on television among possible nominees.
Let's delve into who we think will be nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie at the 2016 Emmys.
1. Sarah Paulson as Marcia Clark in The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story
Of all the contenders in this category, Paulson's performance as prosecutor Marcia Clark is the clear favorite to win the Emmy. This is perhaps the defining performance of Paulson's career, and combined with her overdue status (she's been nominated for various roles for the past four years but has never won), she should be the frontrunner for a nomination and win.
2. Kirsten Dunst as Peggy Blumquist in Fargo
Before Paulson came around, Dunst received a lot of critical attention for her performance as the optimistic yet slightly psychotic Peggy in season 2 of Fargo. Dunst is also a movie star with a lot of love within the industry, so she should be safe for at least a nomination in this category.
3. Kerry Washington as Anita Hill in Confirmation
Washington effectively carries the HBO TV movie Confirmation as Anita Hill, the real-life woman who protested against Clarence Thomas' Supreme Court nomination. HBO TV movies have always done well at the Emmys, and Washington has been Emmy nominated twice in the past, so she should get a nomination.
4. Audra McDonald as Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill
McDonald's television performance as Billie Holiday may not have been watched by a huge amount of people, but it's still a standout role from an actress who has a collection of awards herself. The actress and singer has won six Tonys in her career, and she should be adding at least an Emmy nomination to her total this year.
5. Felicity Huffman as Leslie Graham in American Crime
Huffman was nominated last year for her role as Barb in the first season of American Crime, and we expect her to get another nomination this year for her role as Leslie Graham, the headmaster of a private school. Huffman is an Emmy winner and frequent nominee and even if voters haven't watched American Crime, she will at least be name-checked by a few voters.
6. Lili Taylor as Anne Blaine in American Crime
That's right, we're expecting double nominations in this category for American Crime. Taylor's performance as the mother of a boy who is sexually assaulted was one of the most acclaimed of the year, and assuming voters watch the show, they will be hard-pressed to not nominate her. The one drawback is possible lack of name recognition, though we expect her to squeak through here.
Other possible nominees in this category include Lady Gaga for American Horror Story: Hotel, Blythe Danner for Madoff, Kristen Wiig for The Spoils Before Dying, Sarah Hay for Flesh and Bone, Rachel McAdams for True Detective, Shanice Williams for The Wiz Live and Riley Keough for The Girlfriend Experience.
Emmy nominations will be announced July 14.