Comedy has long been a significant part of television. It’s the genre that makes us laugh, relax, and forget our troubles for a while. The Emmy Awards recognize the most outstanding shows in this genre, and 2022 was no exception. The Best Comedy Series category featured a mix of clever writing, strong performances, and unique storytelling. The shows nominated for this award not only made audiences laugh but also addressed relevant social issues and portrayed deep, relatable characters.
In this article, we will dive into the nominees for Best Comedy Series at the Emmy 2022, look at what made each of them special, and explore the impact they had on both audiences and critics alike. From classic sitcoms to new and experimental formats, these shows pushed the boundaries of comedy and entertainment.
Let’s get started with the nominees!
The Nominees for Best Comedy Series in 2022
- Ted Lasso
- Hacks
- Abbott Elementary
- The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
- What We Do in the Shadows
- Only Murders in the Building
- Barry
1. Ted Lasso
“Ted Lasso,” created by Bill Lawrence, Jason Sudeikis, Joe Kelly, and Brendan Hunt, was one of the most highly anticipated shows of the Emmy 2022 race. The show follows an American football coach who is hired to manage a British soccer team, despite having little to no experience with soccer. This simple premise is elevated by its heartwarming approach to storytelling, combining humor with moments of genuine emotion.
Jason Sudeikis’ portrayal of Ted Lasso is one of the key elements that made the show so successful. His charm, optimism, and relentless positivity have made him a beloved character to many. The series also stands out because of its focus on team dynamics, personal growth, and mental health, all of which are explored in a way that resonates with audiences on a deeper level. For its perfect balance of comedy and heartfelt moments, “Ted Lasso” has earned its place as one of the top contenders for Best Comedy Series.
2. Hacks
“Hacks,” starring Jean Smart as Deborah Vance, is a dark comedy that explores the relationship between a legendary Las Vegas comedian and a struggling young writer. The series, created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky, takes a deep dive into the entertainment world, focusing on the dynamics between old school and new school comedy.
Jean Smart’s performance as Deborah Vance is a standout, and her chemistry with Hannah Einbinder, who plays the young writer Ava, is the heart of the show. The writing of “Hacks” is sharp, witty, and often poignant. The show addresses themes like career struggles, generational divides, and personal reinvention. This mix of humor and emotion makes it a standout show in the Best Comedy Series category at the 2022 Emmys.
3. Abbott Elementary
“Abbott Elementary,” created by Quinta Brunson, is a workplace comedy set in a public elementary school in Philadelphia. The show focuses on a group of teachers who are dedicated to their students, despite the challenges they face within an underfunded school system. It quickly became a fan favorite for its smart, funny, and heartfelt portrayal of everyday heroes working to make a difference.
The series stands out not only because of its strong ensemble cast, but also because it offers a fresh perspective on the workplace comedy genre. Quinta Brunson, who also stars in the show, brings her unique voice and humor to the table, making “Abbott Elementary” a standout in the crowded landscape of sitcoms. The show’s clever social commentary on the state of public education and its focus on representation helped it become a hit with both audiences and critics.
4. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, is a period dramedy that follows the journey of Miriam “Midge” Maisel, a housewife in the late 1950s who discovers a talent for stand-up comedy. The show blends humor, drama, and a strong sense of style, taking viewers through Midge’s complicated life as she tries to break into the male-dominated world of comedy.
The show’s vibrant aesthetic, fast-paced dialogue, and unforgettable performances by Rachel Brosnahan (Midge) and Tony Shalhoub (her father) are key factors in its success. “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” has become a beloved series with its witty writing and sharp cultural observations. Its portrayal of women’s struggles in the entertainment industry and the personal challenges that Midge faces resonated with viewers, earning it multiple Emmy wins over the years.
5. What We Do in the Shadows
Based on the 2014 film of the same name, “What We Do in the Shadows,” created by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, is a mockumentary-style comedy that follows the lives of four vampires living in Staten Island. The show has developed a loyal fanbase with its quirky sense of humor, eccentric characters, and hilarious take on the vampire genre.
The show’s cast, which includes Kayvan Novak, Natasia Demetriou, Matt Berry, and Mark Proksch, delivers performances full of comedic timing and charm. “What We Do in the Shadows” is both absurd and clever, offering a fresh and hilarious perspective on supernatural creatures trying to navigate the mundane aspects of everyday life. Its unique concept and humor earned it a well-deserved nomination for Best Comedy Series at the 2022 Emmys.
6. Only Murders in the Building
“Only Murders in the Building” is a mystery-comedy series that follows three strangers, played by Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, who share an obsession with true crime. When a murder occurs in their building, they decide to investigate it themselves, using their passion for true crime podcasts as a guide.
The show blends mystery, comedy, and charm, with each character offering a unique perspective. Steve Martin and Martin Short, two comedy legends, bring their signature humor to the show, while Selena Gomez adds a refreshing dynamic to the trio. The writing is sharp, and the chemistry between the leads makes “Only Murders in the Building” an engaging and delightful watch. Its combination of comedy, suspense, and heart makes it a standout show in the 2022 Emmy race.
7. Barry
“Barry,” created by Bill Hader and Alec Berg, is a dark comedy that follows a hitman named Barry, played by Bill Hader, who wants to leave his violent career behind to pursue acting. The show explores the tension between Barry’s desire for a normal life and his ties to the criminal underworld, all while mixing humor with moments of intense drama.
Bill Hader’s performance as Barry is a key highlight of the show, showcasing his range as both a comedian and a dramatic actor. “Barry” stands out for its sharp writing, dark humor, and ability to mix genres. It’s a unique blend of crime, comedy, and character study, making it one of the most intriguing shows in the Emmy 2022 lineup.
Conclusion
The Best Comedy Series category at the Emmy Awards 2022 showcased a diverse range of talent, creativity, and innovation in the world of television comedy. Whether it was the heartwarming and optimistic tone of “Ted Lasso,” the sharp wit of “Hacks,” the fresh perspective of “Abbott Elementary,” or the quirky humor of “What We Do in the Shadows,” each show brought something special to the table.
Shows like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “Only Murders in the Building,” and “Barry” continued to prove why they’re still relevant and beloved after multiple seasons, while new contenders like “Abbott Elementary” introduced fresh voices and perspectives to the comedy genre. Each of these shows brought its own flavor to the mix, making the competition for Best Comedy Series at the 2022 Emmys fierce and exciting.
While the award eventually went to Ted Lasso for its second consecutive win, each of the nominated shows made a lasting impact and contributed to the continued evolution of comedy on television. These series not only made us laugh but also made us think, making them well worth watching and celebrating.
