Emmys 2026: Supporting Actress Comedy Series Nominees

This year, all eyes are on the upcoming Emmys, and we can’t help but wonder if last year’s Supporting Actress in a Comedy winner, Hannah Einbinder from “Hacks,” will be able to defend her title. Most pundits are betting on Einbinder to snag another nomination for her role in the final season of the HBO Max comedy. It’s no surprise that Einbinder made it to our Dream Emmy lineup for Supporting Actress in a Comedy, but who else made the cut on our fantasy ballot?
Below, you’ll find all of our Dream Nominees for Supporting Actress in a Comedy. Keep in mind that these are our wish lists, not predictions. Feel free to let us know if our picks deserve a “Heck, yes!,” “Um, no,” or “How could you leave off so-and-so?!”
Just so you know, the 2026 Emmy nominations will be voted on from June 11-22 and revealed on July 8. And mark your calendars, because the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony is scheduled to air on Monday, Sept. 14, on NBC.

Hannah Einbinder in “Hacks” on HBO Max:
Einbinder truly shines as Ava Daniels in “Hacks,” standing alongside the seasoned TV vet Jean Smart. Throughout the final season, Einbinder brings her Gen Z quirkiness to life with enthusiasm and a genuine love for her writing partner, Deborah Vance. From her sharp comebacks to her exaggerated expressions and determination to challenge her boss, Einbinder’s portrayal of Ava is filled with heart. The dynamic between the two characters is captivating, and in Season 5, Einbinder’s warmth and spirit add depth to an emotional yet satisfying conclusion.

Janelle James in “Abbott Elementary” on ABC:
James continues to steal the show in ABC’s schoolhouse comedy as the no-nonsense principal, Ava Coleman. Despite being a nightmare to work under, Ava’s character provides endless laughs with her icy insults and nonchalant attitude towards responsibilities. In Season 5, James reveals a softer side to Ava through her budding romance with IT guy O’Shon. In a time when TV comedies often fall short of delivering genuine laughter, James and her witty one-liners are a breath of fresh air.

Kate O’Flynn in “Widow’s Bay” on Apple TV:
O’Flynn shines in the eerie horror comedy “Widow’s Bay” as Patricia, the quirky high-strung assistant. Patricia’s interactions with Mayor Tom are a comedic highlight, as she responds to his requests with a sassy, world-weary tone. As we get to know Patricia more, O’Flynn’s performance delves deeper into the character, particularly when Patricia throws a disastrous Satanic rave party. With moments of sadness intertwined with humor, O’Flynn’s portrayal adds a unique charm to “Widow’s Bay.”

Ashley Padilla on “Saturday Night Live” on NBC:
Padilla steals the spotlight in her second season on NBC’s late-night sketch series, becoming the heart of the show. Her standout moment in Season 51 is the “Mom Confession” sketch opposite host Alexander Skarsgård, where her deadpan delivery turns a simple line into a comedic gem. From her impeccable Catherine O’Hara impression to her hilarious role as annoying colleague Kathy, Padilla proves to be a versatile performer who can nail any sketch. Throughout the season, viewers could always count on Padilla to deliver the laughs.

Haley Lu Richardson in “PONIES”:
Richardson captivates in the series “PONIES,” showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress. Though details about the show are scarce, Richardson’s performance is undoubtedly noteworthy, earning her a spot on our Dream Nominees list for Supporting Actress in a Comedy. We can’t wait to see more of Richardson’s work and witness her shine on the small screen.