This year’s Primetime Emmys are happening Monday, Sept. 14, and there’s no shortage of shows worth adding to your watchlist before the big night!
From Black-led comedies and buzzy dramas to reality TV and comedy specials, there is something for everybody among this year’s nominees. Some of these shows are already fan favorites, while others may have slipped under your radar. Either way, consider this your excuse to catch up before the trophies are handed out.
So, keep reading for our list of Emmy-nominated shows you should add to your fall watchlist right now.
“Euphoria”
After four years, “Euphoria” finally came back to finish the job—and naturally, it brought the chaos with it. Zendaya and Colman Domingo are both Emmy-nominated, while the show’s signature beauty and visual work earned plenty of love, too.
Nominations: Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series — Zendaya; Outstanding Guest Actor — Colman Domingo; and more.
Related: Octavia Spencer Wins Her First Emmy | The Root
“Paradise”
Sterling K. Brown, political turmoil, time travel, and a whole lot of secrets? Say less. “Paradise” is the kind of thriller that gives you enough twists to keep saying “just one more episode” until it’s suddenly 2 a.m. It’s no wonder why Television Academy members recognized it.
Nominations: Outstanding Drama Series; Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series — Sterling K. Brown; and more.
“Wonder Man”
Thanks to “Wonder Man,” Marvel finally gets in its Hollywood satire bag. And thanks to Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s performance, the result is something hella relatable and intriguing. It’s also something that deserved that second season, but we digress.
Nomination: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series — Yahya Abdul-Mateen II
“Abbott Elementary”
If we’re honest, Abbott Elementary and our beloved Philly teachers are basically family, but that doesn’t mean it gets a pass. Quinta Brunson’s fictional school sitcom is still serving laughs, heart, and enough workplace foolishness to remind us why we’re still tuning in season after season.
Nominations: Outstanding Comedy Series; Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series — Quinta Brunson; Outstanding Supporting Actor — Tyler James Williams; Outstanding Supporting Actress — Janelle James; and more.
“The Bear”
Yes, “The Bear” is technically a comedy, despite the army of folks online arguing that it’s not. Between Ayo Edebiri’s standout performance, the beautifully chaotic kitchen, and another Emmy-heavy showing, this is one you should probably get familiar with!
Nominations: Outstanding Comedy Series; Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series — Ayo Edebiri; Outstanding Directing; and more.
“The Four Seasons”
If you enjoy watching gorgeous grown people navigate complicated friendships, marriages, and midlife mess, then pour up a glass of wine and cozy on up to “The Four Seasons.” This Netflix comedy gives Colman Domingo another chance to flex his comedic muscles, and frankly, we should all be seated for that.
Nomination: Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series — Colman Domingo
“RuPaul’s Drag Race”
At this point, Drag Race knows how to bring Emmy voters to the Werk Room. The fashions, performances, shade, and sheer theatrics make it the perfect choice when your TV diet needs a little more fabulousness—and a whole lot more drama. Trust us, you’ll enjoy this one.
Nominations: Outstanding Reality Competition Program; Outstanding Host — RuPaul Charles; Outstanding Directing; Outstanding Casting; Outstanding Picture Editing; Outstanding Production Design; Outstanding Sound Mixing; Outstanding Choreography.
“RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked”
If you’ve ever watched “Drag Race” and thought, “OK, I need to know what happened after they left the runway,” then “Untucked” is your new bestie. Not only is it basically the backstage group chat brought to life, but you get plenty of tears, arguments, alliances, and shockingly good moments!
Nomination: Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program
“Wanda Sykes: Legacy”
Wanda Sykes has been making audiences laugh for decades, so the title “Legacy” for her stand-up special feels pretty appropriate. Her latest one is sharp, unapologetic, and proof that she still knows exactly how to work a room.
Nominations: Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special; Outstanding Picture Editing for Variety Programming; Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special
“Dave Chappelle: The Unstoppable”
Dave Chappelle is back doing what he does best: saying exactly what he wants, backlash be damned. Whether you’re here for the jokes, the controversy, or you just want to understand the Emmy conversation, this special is worth checking out!
Nominations: Outstanding Variety Special (Pre-Recorded); Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special.
“Sean Combs: The Reckoning”
Thanks to this documentary, 50 Cent already received an Emmy for his creative role in showing the truly ugly sides of Sean “Diddy” Combs. If we’re completely honest, this series is full of serious conversation starters, so we understand why it got the recognition it did.
Nominations: Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series; Outstanding Directing for a Documentary/Nonfiction Program; Outstanding Picture Editing for a Nonfiction Program
Win: Outstanding Picture Editing for a Nonfiction Program
Honorable Mention: “Shrinking”
Jessica Williams may not be the lead in the hit Apple TV show, but her role in it has attracted a dedicated fanbase. If you’ve seen her in this role, you definitely understand why. She’s got the comedic goods!
Nomination: Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series —Jessica Williams; Outstanding Comedy Series; and more.
Honorable Mention: “Family Feud”
Listen, there’s a reason why Steve Harvey’s “Family Feud” keeps getting nominations year after year. That’s because it truly is a good time from start to finish. Whether you’re tuning in for his suits or for the shenanigans these families conjure up to go home with some major coins, it’s clear the show is doing something right by both Television Academy voters and its loyal viewers!
Nomination: Outstanding Game Show; Outstanding Host of a Game Show — Steve Harvey
