The 2015 Emmy Awards are tonight, and will be hosted by Jewish comedian Andy Samberg, whose own Brooklyn Nine-Nine was interestingly snubbed this year, despite having won the award for best comedy or musical in 2014. Samberg also didn't receive a nod after winning the award for best actor in a comedy or musical.
While the actor’s comedic chops should make for a very entertaining evening, there’s other aspects that make these shows memorable: the fashion, the acceptance speeches, the upsets, and the actors’ triumphant walks to the podium to accept their awards – though regarding the latter, it will be tough for anyone tonight to beat Julia Louis-Dreyfus for her performance in Veep.
As always, there will be a discernible Jewish presence at tonight’s gala, with Jewish actors, writers and directors having contributed to many of the comedies, musicals and dramas that will be honoured. While there are many that are nominated, from Louis C.K. (he’s a quarter Jewish, FYI) to Mayim Bialik, we've compiled a list of actors that have garnered quite a bit of buzz and have a good chance of bringing home the gold.
Adrien Brody, nominated for lead actor, limited series or movie, Houdini
In Houdini, Brody's performance captures the enigma surrounding the Jewish-American illusionist and stunt performer that dazzled audiences through his seemingly death-defying stunts. The Observer’s Vinnie Mancuso wrote: "[Brody] juggling the absolute spectacle that was Harry Houdini the performer and the prickly weirdo that was Harry Houdini the man was incredible. He’s my first choice here.”
Jon Stewart, nominated for variety talk series, Daily Show with Jon Stewart
It’ll be a tight race in this category, as both Stewart and David Letterman have left their posts this year. But given that Stewart had possibly one of the best seasons of his career at the helm of The Daily Show, it’s tough not to root for him. Plus, many critics agree that he deserves the award more.
Anthony Bourdain, nominated for host, reality or reality-competition program, The Taste
You may not remember that Bourdain revealed his Jewish heritage during his debut trip to Israel on Parts Unknown in 2013. You will, however, recall the host’s indisputable charm and charisma as a celebrity judge on The Taste. While Jane Lynch definitely delivered many laughs on Hollywood Game Night, she doesn’t stand a chance.
Amy Schumer, nominated for lead actress, comedy, Inside Amy Schumer
When it’s all said and done, 2015 will be known as the year of Amy Schumer. Through her brilliant satire in Inside Amy Schumer, the comedian details everything she thinks is wrong with contemporary society, tackling rape culture, chauvinism, misappropriation, abuse and other issues that are often too taboo to discuss on television. Even Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ performance in Veep might not be able to slow down this unstoppable force.
Jeffrey Tambor, nominated for lead actor, comedy, Transparent
While critics rarely agree on a candidate’s claim to an Emmy, it seems there is no one disputing that Jeffrey Tambor will be accepting an award this evening. Tambor’s performance as retired transgender college professor Maura Pfefferman and the reality she faces once coming out to her (very Jewish) family is unprecedented, documenting the laughs, and heartaches, of this difficult decision. Creator Jill Soloway explores the meaning of human identity, and Tambor’s portrayal as a "wounded father being replaced by a blossoming femininity" is brave, emotional and relatable.