As the buzz around the upcoming Primetime Emmy Awards intensifies, predictions for the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series category are heating up. With the ceremony set for later this year, the competition is fierce, and several talented actresses are vying for a chance to take home the coveted award.
Among the frontrunners is Janelle James, who has garnered significant acclaim for her role as Principal Ava Coleman in ABC's hit mockumentary series, Abbott Elementary. In her fourth season, James has evolved from comic relief to one of the show’s emotional anchors, showcasing new depths of vulnerability and leadership. Critics are optimistic that this could be her year to win after three previous nominations.
Sheryl Lee Ralph, who won an Emmy in 2022 for her portrayal of veteran teacher Barbara Howard in the same series, is also expected to receive another nomination. Her performance, which brings warmth and wisdom to the show, has been widely praised. Meanwhile, Lisa Ann Walter could be in the running for her first nomination for her role as Melissa, adding to the excitement surrounding Abbott Elementary.
In addition to the Abbott Elementary stars, Liza Colón-Zayas is a strong contender following her surprise win last year for her role as Tina in FX’s The Bear. If she wins again, she would make history as the first Latina to win two consecutive acting Emmys. Another notable nominee could be Hannah Einbinder for her performance in HBO/Max’s Hacks, as her role continues to resonate with audiences.
Catherine O’Hara is making a return to comedy in Apple TV+’s The Studio and has the potential to be nominated for her work in The Last of Us as well. Her versatility and talent are likely to keep her in the conversation. Kathryn Hahn is also in a unique position to double-dip at the Emmys, as she stars in both the Apple series and Agatha All Along, which could bolster her chances.
Jessica Williams, known for her impressive performance in Shrinking, is another name to watch. Her ability to balance humor with poignant moments has made her a favorite among critics. Meanwhile, Meryl Streep’s role in Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building is noteworthy, even though it falls below the 50% episode number for consideration. Due to new Emmy rules, she must submit in the supporting category, making her a wildcard in the race.
Meg Stalter is still hoping for her first Emmy nomination for her work on Hacks, while Broadway star Patti LuPone could secure a nomination for her role in Agatha All Along. As the Emmy predictions continue to evolve, the excitement surrounding this year's contenders remains palpable.
In a delightful surprise for fans, Jill Scott made a guest appearance on Abbott Elementary on April 2, 2025, performing her hit song “Golden” in the episode titled “Ava Fest: Tokyo Drift.” The episode showcased the show's signature humor, with Barbara (Sheryl Lee Ralph) leveraging her church connections to secure Scott's performance at a fundraising block party.
Scott humorously recounted a bizarre encounter with a fan who once broke into her dressing room to steal her ear monitors, questioning, “Like what you gon’ do with ear monitors?” Ava (Janelle James) added to the comedic flair by teasing Barbara about her connection to Scott, highlighting the show’s ability to blend humor with heartfelt moments.
The episode culminated in a comedic twist as Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis) was revealed to be the crazed fan who had stolen items from Scott over the years, including a shrine dedicated to her. This unexpected ending left viewers in stitches, demonstrating the show's knack for engaging storytelling.
Fans took to social media to express their excitement over Scott's appearance, with one user joking, “The way Jill Scott’s entire mood changed when she saw her missing scarf in the possession of Mr. Johnson.” Another tweeted, “Quinta Brunson is a national treasure. The incomparable Jill Scott joins a masterpiece.” This episode is currently streaming on Hulu, adding to the show's popularity.
The Primetime Emmy Awards, established in 1949 by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (ATAS), celebrate outstanding achievements in American primetime television. The eligibility period for the awards typically extends from June 1 to May 31 each year, and with the ceremony approaching, the anticipation for who will take home the awards grows.
As the competition for the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series heats up, it is clear that the talent pool is deep this year. With several actresses delivering exceptional performances, the Emmy race is sure to be thrilling. Will Janelle James finally take home her first Emmy? Or will another contender emerge victorious? Only time will tell as the awards ceremony approaches, and fans eagerly await the results.
