John Mulaney is one of the most celebrated comedians, writers, and actors in modern entertainment. Known for his sharp wit, relatable humor, and distinctive storytelling, Mulaney has earned critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. Beyond stand-up comedy, he has made significant contributions to television as a writer, performer, and producer. His work on Saturday Night Live (SNL), Big Mouth, and his own Netflix specials has earned him multiple Emmy Awards—one of the highest honors in television.
This article provides a detailed list of John Mulaney’s Emmy wins and nominations, highlighting his achievements in comedy and television. From his early days as an SNL writer to his success as a stand-up star, we’ll explore how his talent has been recognized by the Television Academy.
John Mulaney’s Emmy Awards
John Mulaney has won three Primetime Emmy Awards out of nine nominations (as of 2024). His wins span categories like Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series and Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance. Below is a breakdown of his Emmy victories and notable nominations.
1. Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series (2011)
Show: Saturday Night Live
Year: 2011 (63rd Primetime Emmy Awards)
Mulaney’s first Emmy win came as part of SNL’s writing team during the show’s 36th season. Though he wasn’t the sole winner (the award goes to the entire writing staff), his contributions were crucial. Known for sketches like “Stefon” (co-written with Bill Hader), Mulaney helped shape some of SNL’s most memorable moments.
2. Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special (2019)
Show: John Mulaney: Kid Gorgeous at Radio City
Year: 2019 (71st Primetime Emmy Awards)
Mulaney’s second Emmy was for his Netflix stand-up special Kid Gorgeous. The special, filmed at Radio City Music Hall, showcased his signature observational humor and storytelling. The Television Academy recognized his sharp writing, awarding him the Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special.
3. Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance (2021)
Show: Big Mouth
Year: 2021 (73rd Primetime Emmy Awards)
Mulaney voices Andrew Glouberman in Netflix’s animated series Big Mouth. His performance as the awkward, hormone-driven teenager earned him an Emmy for Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance. This win highlighted his versatility beyond stand-up and sketch comedy.
Notable Emmy Nominations
While Mulaney has three wins, he has also received several nominations, proving his consistent excellence in comedy.
1. Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics (2018, 2019, 2020)
Show: Saturday Night Live
Nominations:
2018: “Come Back Barack” (with Chris Redd and Will Stephen)
2019: “Bodega Bathroom” (with Chris Redd and Will Stephen)
2020: “Airport Sushi” (with Chris Redd and Will Stephen)
Mulaney frequently collaborated with SNL’s music team, earning three consecutive nominations for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics. Though he didn’t win, these nods reinforced his creative influence on the show.
2. Outstanding Variety Special (Pre-Recorded) (2019, 2023)
Shows:
John Mulaney: Kid Gorgeous at Radio City (2019)
John Mulaney: Baby J (2023)
Both Kid Gorgeous and Baby J were nominated for Outstanding Variety Special. While Kid Gorgeous didn’t win in this category (losing to Carpool Karaoke: When Corden Met McCartney), Baby J remains a strong contender for future awards.
3. Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series (2020)
Show: Saturday Night Live
Nomination: 2020 (72nd Primetime Emmy Awards)
Mulaney’s hosting gigs on SNL have been widely praised, earning him a nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series. His monologues and sketches (like the iconic “Airport Sushi” song) made his episodes fan favorites.
John Mulaney’s Impact on Comedy and Television
Mulaney’s Emmy success reflects his influence on comedy. Here’s why his work stands out:
1. Unique Writing Style
His comedy blends personal anecdotes with absurdity, making even mundane topics hilarious. Kid Gorgeous and Baby J showcase his ability to turn life experiences into universally relatable humor.
2. Versatility Across Mediums
From SNL sketches to voice acting in Big Mouth, Mulaney excels in multiple formats. His Emmy wins in writing and voice-over prove his adaptability.
3. Influence on Modern Comedy
Many young comedians cite Mulaney as an inspiration. His clean yet edgy style has reshaped stand-up, proving that humor doesn’t need to rely on shock value.
Conclusion
John Mulaney’s three Emmy Awards and multiple nominations highlight his brilliance in comedy. Whether writing for SNL, performing stand-up, or voicing a chaotic teen in Big Mouth, he consistently delivers excellence. As he continues to create new content, fans and critics alike can expect more award-worthy performances.
For now, his Emmy legacy includes:
3 Wins (Writing for SNL, Kid Gorgeous, and Big Mouth)
6 Additional Nominations (SNL music, hosting, and specials)
Mulaney’s career is far from over, and future Emmy recognition seems inevitable. Whether through stand-up, animation, or television writing, his impact on comedy remains undeniable.
