Emmy Episode Selection: A Strategic Game of Skill and Chance

As the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards draw near, the focus sharpens not just on nominations, but on the intricate art of episode submission. This year, contenders are navigating the strategic landscape with a blend of calculated choices and creative gambles, hoping to sway voters and secure coveted gold.

HBO Max Leads the Pack, Submission Strategies Vary

HBO Max dominates with a record-breaking 142 nominations, while Apple TV+'s "Severance" and "The Studio" lead the drama and comedy categories with 27 and 23 nods, respectively. Beyond the impressive numbers, the real battle lies in the carefully curated episode selections designed to resonate with Emmy voters.

A Look Back: The Evolution of Episode Submissions

Historically, episode submissions held immense weight. During the era when Emmy panels comprised blue-ribbon groups tasked with watching every submitted tape, lesser-known actors could achieve surprising victories through a standout episode. A powerful episode could propel a relatively unknown performer to victory. Jennifer Aniston's Emmy win for "Friends," following Rachel's baby's birth, exemplifies this trend.

However, the landscape shifted in 2015 when the Academy broadened voting to encompass entire peer groups without mandatory viewing of all submissions. This change ushered in an era where popularity and name recognition gained prominence, potentially explaining instances like Jon Hamm's loss for "Mad Men's" acclaimed "The Suitcase" episode to Bryan Cranston in "Breaking Bad."

Expert Insight: The Enduring Importance of Episode Choice

Despite the evolving voting dynamics, the significance of a well-chosen episode remains. According to Dr. Amanda Lotz, Professor of Media Studies at the University of Michigan, "While overall series popularity undoubtedly plays a role, a strategically selected episode can serve as a potent reminder of an actor's range and the narrative's depth. It's about making a lasting impression in a crowded field."

Dr. Lotz adds, "The shift to peer voting has arguably democratized the process, but it also places greater emphasis on the initial impression. A compelling episode can cut through the noise and re-engage voters who may have only a fleeting memory of the series."

Drama Series: Cohesive Campaigns and Individual Gambit

"Severance" demonstrates a cohesive strategy in the drama category. Adam Scott selected the unsettling finale "Cold Harbor," while Britt Lower submitted "Attila," showcasing the mystery surrounding her character. Patricia Arquette ("Sweet Vitriol"), Tramell Tillman, and Zach Cherry (both for "The After Hours") reinforce a unified internal campaign, directing voters to impactful episodes.

"The Last of Us" follows a similar approach, with Pedro Pascal opting for "The Price," an emotionally charged flashback episode. In contrast, "The White Lotus" adopts a more fragmented strategy. While five nominees, including Carrie Coon, Natasha Rothwell, and Walton Goggins, submitted the finale, "Amor Fati," Parker Posey and Sam Rockwell chose "Full-Moon Party," a potentially strategic move, particularly for Rockwell, given the buzz around his monologue.

Comedy Series: Unity Versus a Scattershot Approach

The comedy submissions present a fascinating contrast. "The Bear" exhibits some unity, with Jeremy Allen White submitting "Tomorrow," while Liza Colón-Zayas ("Napkins") and Ebon Moss-Bachrach ("Doors") selected pivotal, character-defining episodes.

Navigating the Emmy Landscape: An Industry Perspective

Veteran television producer, David Shore, known for his work on "House" and "The Good Doctor," emphasizes the psychological aspect of episode selection. "It's not just about choosing the 'best' episode, but the one that will resonate most with voters, given their viewing habits and biases. You want to showcase what makes your show unique, while also playing to the Academy's established tastes."

Shore adds, "Sometimes, a less obvious choice can be more effective. If everyone expects you to submit a big, dramatic episode, surprising them with something quieter and more nuanced can make your submission stand out."

Looking Ahead: The Final Verdict

As the Emmy voting period progresses, the effectiveness of these strategic choices will become evident. Whether through cohesive campaigns or individual gambits, the art of episode submission continues to shape the narrative of awards season, highlighting the delicate balance between showcasing talent and appealing to the discerning tastes of Emmy voters.