Some of television’s biggest and most recognizable stars have spent years delivering memorable performances without ever receiving an Emmy nomination.
Among the most surprising names is Ellen Pompeo, who became one of TV’s most familiar faces through her long-running role as Meredith Grey on Grey’s Anatomy. The ABC medical drama has earned dozens of Emmy nominations over the years, with cast members including Katherine Heigl, Chandra Wilson, Sandra Oh and T.R. Knight receiving recognition.
Pompeo, however, has never been nominated for her portrayal of Meredith.
Despite missing out on Emmy recognition herself, Pompeo publicly celebrated former Grey’s Anatomy costar Sandra Oh when Oh made history in 2018 as the first Asian American actress nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
Another surprising omission is Jake Johnson, best known for playing Nick Miller on New Girl. Johnson received plenty of praise from fans and critics during the sitcom’s seven-season run, but the Television Academy never nominated him for the role.
Peter Gallagher has also built an extensive television career without receiving an Emmy nomination. His credits include memorable performances in The O.C., New Girl and Grace and Frankie.
Katey Sagal has experienced major awards success elsewhere, including a Golden Globe win for Sons of Anarchy, but an Emmy nomination has remained out of reach.
The same is true for Constance Wu, whose performance on Fresh Off the Boat helped make her a household name before her breakout film role in Crazy Rich Asians.
Other major stars who have never received an Emmy nomination include Ashton Kutcher, despite starring in hit sitcoms such as That ’70s Show, Two and a Half Men and The Ranch.
Norman Reedus became one of the most popular stars of The Walking Dead through his role as Daryl Dixon, but his work on the franchise has yet to earn him an Emmy nod.
Lauren Graham also remains without an Emmy nomination despite acclaimed performances in both Gilmore Girls and Parenthood.
Meanwhile, Blake Lively became a major television star through Gossip Girl, while Ian Somerhalder gained a huge following as Damon Salvatore on The Vampire Diaries. Neither has been nominated for an Emmy.
Before becoming one of Hollywood’s biggest movie stars, Chris Pratt played Andy Dwyer on Parks and Recreation. His costar Amy Poehler collected numerous Emmy nominations for the series, but Pratt never received one.
Mila Kunis also missed out on Emmy recognition for her popular role as Jackie Burkhart on That ’70s Show.
Other notable names on the list include Chris Noth, who received Golden Globe nominations for Sex and the City and The Good Wife but never an Emmy nomination.
While Emmy recognition is often viewed as one of television’s highest honors, these actors prove that a hugely successful TV career does not always come with a nomination from the Television Academy.
