‘Scandal,’ ‘Insecure’ and More Black Emmy Snubs Through the Years
The 78th Primetime Emmys, arguably Hollywood’s biggest night to celebrate TV history, are about to go down live from Los Angeles on Sep. 14. And with so much groundbreaking television showcased and highlighted year after year, it’s hard to believe that there are some Black shows and artists out there —that we consider essential parts of the culture—that never received award recognition from the Television Academy.
But because you know we like to keep receipts on this part of the internet, we’ve made a list of actors and shows that have been seriously snubbed at the Emmys over the years. So as we wait to see if “Paradise,” “Abbott Elementary,” and “The Four Seasons” take home the prize this year, we’re looking back at the notable series and stars that have never won a Primetime Emmy.
Issa Rae
From “Insecure” to “A Black Lady Sketch Show,” Issa Rae helped platform a new generation of Black female comedians, and it’s wild that the Emmys haven’t rewarded her unique style. (And no, we’re not counting that one win for Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing for a Comedy Series.)
Related: Quinta Brunson, Colman Domingo and More Snubs at the Emmys 2025
“Good Times”
“Good Times” is arguably one of the most impactful TV series of all time. Its authenticity has allowed it to stand the test of time. It’s really hard to believe that the industry didn’t recognize it with an award.
“A Different World”
While it never received an Emmy, “A Different World” inspired generations of young Black people to attend college, a much more important legacy. That alone should’ve garnered recognition. But maybe the upcoming reboot will change that.
“Living Single”
“Friends” may have received all the buzz and acclaim, but we know it was really “Living Single” that kicked off the influx of “friends as chosen family” comedies in the ‘90s.
Damon Wayans
Though he was nominated multiple times for his writing and performance on “In Living Color,” he never won. He went on to star in several other popular series and still hasn’t been recognized with an Emmy.
Tim Reid
From “WKRP in Cincinnati” to “Simon & Simon” to “Frank’s Place,” Tim Reid is a legit TV legend whose contributions to the culture have been repeatedly overlooked.
“The Wire”
Of all the series on this list, the most egregious Emmy snub might be “The Wire.” It’s widely considered one of the best series of all time, but somehow the Television Academy never saw fit to recognize its brilliance. It’s particularly heartbreaking that Michael K. Williams was never acknowledged for his outstanding work.
“Martin”
“Martin” is so influential to modern comedy that it seems ridiculous that neither the show nor its talented star ever won an Emmy. Seriously, you wouldn’t have shows like “Black-ish,” “Abbott Elementary” or “Insecure” without it.
Tracee Ellis Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross is one of the funniest women in Hollywood. She has a comedic timing that can’t be taught. She received six nominations for her work on “Black-ish” and nods for “Girlfriends,” proving that her talent is unmatched.
Arsenio Hall
Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, Stephen Colbert, James Corden and Trevor Noah all owe a huge debt to Arsenio Hall. It’s a shame he was never properly given his Emmy flowers.
“Roc”
“Roc” brilliantly blended comedy and drama while tackling serious issues in a way that felt authentic, not preachy. It’s such an underrated gem, and taking it off the air without a win makes us feel some type of way.
Shonda Rhimes
Shonda Rhimes has been honored as a member of the Television Academy Hall of Fame and with a Founder’s Award by the International Emmys, but somehow she’s never won a Primetime Emmy. Despite giving us binge-worthy shows like “Bridgerton,” “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Scandal” that have become essential parts of our TV watching, she hasn’t been acknowledged for reinventing the modern drama. And we’re patiently waiting for the day she does.
(It should be noted that “Scandal,” “Bridgerton,” and “Grey’s Anatomy” have won a few Emmys over the years, but none for the lead acting categories.)
Diahann Carroll
If “The Wire” is the most egregious snub among series, then the legendary Diahann Carroll has to be the worst miss for artists. Seriously, how do you not honor her for “Julia,” “Roots: The Next Generation,” “Dynasty,” “White Collar,” or her countless other unforgettable credits?
“The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”
Seriously, nothing? Not even something for the hit theme song, or the episode where Will’s dad comes back? And what makes it even worse is that the dramatic reboot “Bel-Air” didn’t receive any nominations either across its multiple-season run.
Zazie Beetz
As much as Emmy voters loved “Atlanta” and Donald Glover, they didn’t extend that same love to his co-star Zazie Beetz. Let’s be honest, Earn was always lost without Van by his side. (And if we really want to take it there, Brian Tyree Henry also deserved some love for this show. Paper Boi was truly one of one).
