“It’s not TV. It’s HBO.”
Thats the premium cable network slogan that single-handedly changed the television landscape forever and ushered in the Peak TV era. The Home Box Office turned 50 in November 2022, and Variety celebrated its Golden Year by ranking the best performances in its history.
Disclaimer: Were including performances only from dramas, comedies and limited series that are no longer on the air or have been completed. So don’t expect this current list to have Zendaya (“Euphoria”), Jennifer Coolidge (“The White Lotus”) or Larry David (“Curb Your Enthusiasm”) and many others that are still in their run. This list will be updated as series come to the end of their runs.
Now a subsidiary of Warner Bros. Discovery, HBO (now called Max) is the oldest subscription television service in the United States. Launching on November 8, 1972, in the past 50 years, HBO has produced some of the finest creations in television — all while breaking off into multiple phases and facets of itself — with some of the biggest names in Hollywood.
HBO holds the record for the most Emmy wins in a single year, with “Game of Thrones,” with 12, which it achieved in 2015, 2016 and 2019. The show also has the most wins for a drama series in history with 59, and the most for a single episode – “Battle of the Bastards,” which won six, and is tied with “Boardwalk Empire.”
For individual acting roles, Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ turn as vice president (and eventual Madam President) Selina Meyer in “Veep” has won the most awards for a single role, with six for lead actress comedy. In addition, “Game of Thrones” star Peter Dinklage is tied for the most wins ever in supporting actor drama for his work as Tyrion Lannister (with four).
HBO has made us laugh (Garry Shandling in “The Larry Sanders Show”), cry (Michaela Coel in “I May Destroy You”), and feel fear (John Kassir in “Tales from the Crypt”). Its kept us in suspense (James Gandolfini in “The Sopranos”), a state of anxiety (Carrie Coon in “The Leftovers”) and even utter confusion on how we feel about a character (Jeremy Piven in “Entourage”).
We hope HBO continues to build upon its presence on the television medium. But whats on the horizon for the premium cable network, and with the streaming home of HBO, HBO Max, merging with Discovery+, how will its legacy grow? The answer to that remains to be determined.
Were nervous but hopeful: And as long as Max keeps on making shows like the recently departed “Succession” and Barry, and keeps stunning TV like “Euphoria” and “Hacks” ongoing the brands mission will remain intact.
Read Variety’s list of the 61 best performances from HBO’s television series (since 1972) below.
Honorable mentions: Kristin Davis (Sex and the City Woody Harrelson (True Detective Frances McDormand (Olive Kitteridge Mary Louise-Parker (Angels in America Andre Royo (The Wire Alexander Skarsgård (Big Little Lies John Turturro (The Night Of Dominic West (The Wire Maisie Williams (Game of Thrones Henry Winkler (Barry)
Updated: May 29, 2023
Anna Paquin - True Blood
Image Credit: John P. Johnson/HBO Role: Sookie Stackhouse
Created by: Alan Ball
Years showed aired: 2008-2014
Number of episodes appeared: 81
As the telepathic waitress who finds herself entangled in the world of vampires and other supernatural creatures, Oscar winner Anna Paquin (The Piano) brought a vulnerable southern twang and her remarkable multi-layered physicality to the Alan Ball series. Her on-screen chemistry with her co-stars Stephen Moyer and Alexander Skarsgård, helped hold the flawed series together far longer than it would have in others hands. Admirers of Charlaine Harris novels are often complementary of her interpretation of the beloved waitress, which resonated for six seasons.
Danny McBride - Eastbound Down
Role: Kenny Powers
Created by: Ben Best, Jody Hill, Danny McBride
Years showed aired: 2009-2013
Number of episodes appeared: 29
Wickedly of its time in history, Will Ferrell and Adam McKay produced the comedy that follows a former professional baseball player who returns to his southern hometown to become a substitute gym teacher bringing out the very best in its leading man Danny McBride. A gem of a performance that has its loyal fans.
Gabriel Byrne - In Treatment
Image Credit: HBO Role: Paul Weston
Created by: Rodrigo García
Years showed aired: 2008-2010, 2021
Number of episodes appeared: 106 episodes
Irish-born character Gabriel Byrne, best known for his film performances such as Millers Crossing (1990), The Usual Suspects (1995) and Hereditary (2018) but he made his mark as psychotherapist Dr. Paul Weston on the HBO adaptation of the Israeli series BeTipul. For the first three seasons, the sharp writing is elevated by Byrnes ability to convey Pauls confidence, and its detoration through multiple conversations through multiple patients, is beautifully complex.
Isiah Whitlock Jr. – The Wire
Role: Senator Clay Davis
Created by: David Simon
Years showed aired: 2002-2008
Number of episodes appeared: 25
What many dont know (or remember) is Isiah Whitlocks popular catchphrase from the hit series The Wire didnt originate on the program. The actor previously used the term in his collaboration with director Spike Lee in 25th Hour (2002). Two years later, during the sixth episode of the third season of the David Simon-created series, sheee-it was born on the pages of the script, and weve never looked back.
Jonathan Groff - Looking
Role: Patrick Murray
Created by: Michael Lannan
Years showed aired: 2014-2015
Number of episodes appeared: 18
You wouldnt be wrong if you chose either of Jonathan Groffs co-stars Frankie J. Alvarez as Agustin or Murray Bartlett as Dom as your favorite performance from the short-lived relationship dramedy. Groffs intimate approach to his Patrick Murray feels natural, and not at all forced, which elicits a powerful engagement from the viewer.
Thandiwe Newton - Westworld
Image Credit: HBO Role: Maeve Millay
Created by: Lisa Joy, Jonathan Nolan
Years showed aired: 2016-2022
Number of episodes appeared: 36
The original inception of this piece wasnt meant to include any of the actors of Westworld but HBO had different plans, surprising fans of the show and canceling it after its fourth season. Even though the once-promising drama series was spiraling downward fast in the eyes of many, one thing remained constant: Thandiwe Newtons committed turn as Maeve Millay was a common highpoint of the drama, for which she won an Emmy in 2018 for supporting actress drama.
Steve Buscemi - Boardwalk Empire
Role: Enoch “Nucky” Thompson
Created by: Terence Winter
Years showed aired: 2010-2014
Number of episodes appeared: 57
Steve Buscemi is one of the great character actors of our time, and it was great to see him step into the leading role of Nucky Thompson in the Terence Winter-created series. While he never managed to win an Emmy during his tenure, his SAG prize for outstanding performance by a male actor in a drama series in 2012 showed, he has the respect of his peers.
Thomas Middleditch - Silicon Valley
Role: Richard Hendricks
Created by: John Altschuler, Mike Judge, Dave Krinsky
Years showed aired: 2014-2019
Number of episodes appeared: 53
The parody of the tech world through the eyes of Richard Hendricks, played vividly by comedian Thomas Middleditch is a sensational feat that not many quite understand. Only able to muster a single nom across his run, the dry wit and commitment to humor has always been one of the bedrocks of Middleditchs gifts as a performer.
Emilia Clarke - Game of Thrones
Image Credit: Courtesy of HBO Role: Daenerys Targaryen
Created by: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
Years showed aired: 2011-2019
Number of episodes appeared: 62
You know her as Khaleesi of the Dothraki, the daughter of King Aerys II, the Protector of the Seven Kingdoms, or simply, the Mother of Dragons Clarke rose to superstardom by bringing the iconic female warrior to life. While the creators werent able to give the George R.R. Martin fantasy series, an ending that would please fans of the series, her descent into madness and lust for power still remain a highpoint of GOT during its reign. We are forever in her debt.
Peter Krause - Six Feet Under
Role: Nate Fisher
Created by: Alan Ball
Years showed aired: 2001-2005
Number of episodes appeared: 63
There are dozens of bright spots in the series about a family that runs a funeral home, and one of those is the work of Peter Krause as Nate Fisher, the eldest child that searches for meaning in his own life. His heartbreaking portrayal earned him three Emmy nominations across the shows six seasons. And even though he never won, the cast ensemble win in 2003, was able to make up (somewhat) for it.
Bill Camp - The Night Of
Role: Dennis Box
Created by: Richard Price, Steven Zaillian
Years showed aired: 2016
Number of episodes appeared: 8
You could place Bill Camp on this list a dozen times with any role he takes on, big or small. In The Night Of, the intensity of his detective trying to learn the truth about a murder case is sublime. Standing tall next to his co-stars Riz Ahmed and John Turturro. He received an Emmy nomination for his towering work.
Bobby Cannavale - Boardwalk Empire
Role: Gyp Rosetti
Created by: Terence Winter
Years showed aired: 2010-2014
Number of episodes appeared: 12
Bobby Cannavale was only on the drama series for a single season but what an impression he made. Variety has referenced his shocking Emmy win in 2013 over Jonathan Banks for Breaking Bad before, but thats not to say his work wasnt memorable and towering in a show that wasnt always as consistent as we would have liked.
Kate Winslet - Mildred Pierce
Role: Mildred Pierce
Created by: Todd Haynes, Jon Raymond (based on the novel by James M. Cain)
Years showed aired: 2011
Number of episodes appeared: 5
A role and story that is sprinkled through different mediums in art, only a master actor like Kate Winslet could make the iconic role of Mildred Pierce feel new and inventive. Playing the divorced mother that opens a restaurant, her Emmy-winning portrayal is a work of beauty, standing tall next to her other outstanding portrayals in film.
Jeremy Piven - Entourage
Role: Ari Gold
Created by: Doug Ellin
Years showed aired: 2004-2011
Number of episodes appeared: 96
When you think of Entourage, you think of Turtle. Thats just a fact, but Ari Gold does come barreling toward the forefront when thinking of the comedy series high points. Pivens work in the tale of douchebags making it in Hollywood was perfect for its time, earning the actor back-to-back Emmys for supporting actor comedy.
Jeff Daniels - The Newsroom
Image Credit: HBO Role: Will McAvoy
Created by: Aaron Sorkin
Years showed aired: 2012-2014
Number of episodes appeared: 25
The Hollywood industry loves Jeff Daniels, shown by his unexpected win in 2013 over Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) and Damian Lewis (Homeland). Many critics and viewers have their issues with the Aaron Sorkin drama, but the delivery of Will McAvoy by Daniels isnt one of them. A world in which Daniels has statuettes, is one Id like to continue to live in.
Kate Winslet - Mare of Easttown
Image Credit: Courtesy of HBO Role: Marianne Mare Sheehan
Created by: Brad Inglesby
Years showed aired: 2021
Number of episodes appeared: 7
Kate Winslet had already cemented her place as one of her generations most gifted actors, especially after winning an Oscar for The Reader and an Emmy for Mildred Pierce. But Winslet knows she has more to give. Her fearless transformation into Philadelphia detective Mare Sheehan is another example of her emotional range, unafraid of the depth and layers that haunt her as she relentlessly tries to solve a murder case. A truly captivating and authentic Winslet signature role.
Idris Elba - The Wire
Role: Russell ‘Stringer’ Bell
Created by: David Simon
Years showed aired: 2002-2008
Number of episodes appeared: 37
The second-in-command to kingpin Avon Barksdale, Russell Bells journey throughout the crime series is riveting as invests in real estate and becomes a crime lord. This is due to Idris Elbas striking good-looks and commanding presence.
All of Elbas ticks and beats add nuance to the role, all leading to the climatic moment with Omar Little and Brother Mouzone in the third season.
Lena Dunham - Girls
Image Credit: Courtesy of HBO Role: Hannah Horvath
Created by: Lena Dunham
Years showed aired: 2012-2017
Number of episodes appeared: 62
Theres no denying that Lena Dunham is a polarizing figure in the biz, but her commitment to female empowerment with Girls is an indisputable blessing to the generation that discovered it at the time. Her aspiring writer who struggles to support herself grapples with OCD and eventually gets pregnant from a brief fling that was perhaps too real for some to digest. She nabbed a total of eight Emmy noms across the length of the series, most impressively picking up four noms for comedy series as a producer, directing, writing and lead actress, becoming the first woman to achieve all four in the same year.
Tony Hale - Veep
Image Credit: HBO Role: Gary Walsh
Created by: Armando Inannucci
Years showed aired: 2012-2019
Number of episodes appeared: 65
I had a dreamone that Gary Walsh, the personal aide and loyal confidant of VP (and eventual POTUS) Selina Meyer was cloned and sprinkled into every business and household in America. They all have the undying love, and lack of security clearance needed to be actually effective, but still there to bring joy and humor to everyday life. In conclusion, a world full of Tony Hales is my goal and I would like it to happen. Thank you for working on this science.
Love,
Everybody.
Anthony Carrigan - Barry
Image Credit: HBO Role: NoHo Hank
Created by: Alec Berg, Bill Hader
Years showed aired: 2018-2023
Number of episodes appeared: 32
There will always be a place in our hearts for NoHo Hank, the lovable and naïve member of the Chechen mafia. Thats due to Anthony Carrigans versatility and charisma, which puts forth a chilling man that should be feared and then executes a stark contrast that brings the shows biggest laughs with flawless timing. The actors work will be remember as one of the great scene-stealers in the comedic canon.
Sarah Jessica Parker - Sex and the City
Image Credit: ©HBO/Courtesy Everett Collectio Role: Carrie Bradshaw
Created by: Darren Star
Years showed aired: 1998-2004
Number of episodes appeared: 94
The cultural impact of HBOs Sex and the City is immeasurable. Not only for women (and for the men that secretly watched it and pretended not to enjoy it) but for the legacy of Sarah Jessica Parker. As Carrie Bradshaw, the columnist for the fictitious New York Star, she narrates her musings about fashion, love and her memorable scenes with her BFF Stanford Blatch (played by the late Willie Garson). Its made her a bonafide legend, as well as a two-time Emmy winner for lead actress comedy for the shows final season, and as an executive producer when it picked up the top category in 2001.
Matthew Macfadyen - Succession
Image Credit: Graeme Hunter/HBO Role: Tom Wambsgans
Created by: Jesse Armstrong
Years showed aired: 2018-2023
Number of episodes appeared: 39 episodes
Tom won in more ways than one.
Matthew Macfadyen, who won the supporting drama actor Emmy for the shows third season, played the sly and weasel husband to Shiv with fearless control. Aside from being deprived of a truly loving moment between Tom and his one true love Cousin Greg (played by Nicholas Braun), everything about Toms arc and promise soars thanks to Macfadyen, who finds the subtlety and knows where the limits of his character are. The siblings of Succession cant hit their emotional notes without Toms key moves that put everything that leads to its riveting finale into motion.
Riz Ahmed - The Night Of
Role: Nasir “Naz” Khan
Created by: Richard Price, Steven Zaillian
Years showed aired: 2016
Number of episodes appeared: 8
London-born actor Riz Ahmed was coming off his breakout role in Dan Gilroys Nightcrawler alongside Jake Gyllenhaal when he landed the role of Naz Khan, a man who after a night of partying with a woman, wakes up and finds her stabbed to death and charged with her murder. For eight episodes, the audience is gripped and at the edge of their seats, wondering if he could have committed such a crime. In addition, we witness the loss of his innocence in the prison system. Ahmeds performance hits even deeper, as the story comes off the suicide of Kalief Browder, an innocent Black man who was held on Rikers Island for three years without a trial, enduring unspeakable abuse and atrocities. Ahmed won an Emmy for lead actor in a limited series. He was only the second Asian, and first Muslim to win an acting Emmy.
Michael Imperioli - The Sopranos
Role: Christopher Moltisanti
Created by: David Chase
Years showed aired: 1999-2007
Number of episodes appeared: 83
Tony Sopranos protégé Christopher resonates profoundly throughout the series, particularly with interactions with the mobster and his tumultuous exchanges with his girlfriend Adriana La Cerva (played brilliantly by Emmy winner Drea de Matteo). Imperioli won himself an Emmy for supporting actor drama for his efforts.
Kim Cattrall - Sex and the City
Role: Samantha Jones
Created by: Darren Star
Years showed aired: 1998-2004
Number of episodes appeared: 94
While many today focus on the feud between Kim Cattrall and Sarah Jessica Parker, the actors portrayal as the outspoken independent businesswoman Samantha Jones was the scene-stealing sensation that we couldnt get enough of in the 90s and early aughts. Through her seductions of a young waiter, and her sexual escapades, her most tender acting moments come when Samantha is diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoes chemotherapy in the final season. It allowed the vulnerability of the character to show, and Cattrall rose to the occasion.
By series-end, her work resulted in five consecutive Emmy nominations for supporting actress comedy, but sadly never a trip to the stage. Samantha may be gone, but never forgotten.
Adam Driver - Girls
Role: Adam Sackler
Created by: Lena Dunham
Years showed aired: 2012-2017
Number of episodes appeared: 49
The Lena Dunham-created comedy may have its vocal detractors but its undeniable to recognize that we dont have Adam Driver as we see him today without getting his work as the aspiring actor Adam Sackler, the aloof and casual fling-turned-boyfriend of Hannah. Managing two pick up two Emmy noms in the early days of the series, Driver went on to become one of the shows greatest successes, eventually bringing him into the world of Star Wars and picking up two Oscar noms for BlacKkKlansman (2018) and Marriage Story (2019).
I guess Adam did make it in the end, eh?
Maggie Gyllenhaal - The Deuce
Image Credit: HBO Role: Eileen ‘Candy Renee’ Merrell
Created by: George Pelecanos, David Simon
Years showed aired: 2017-2019
Number of episodes appeared: 25
Like Thanos snapping his fingers in Avengers: Infinity War, the period drama from George Pelecanos and David Simon was a blip in the HBO repertoire, running quietly for three seasons. Despite its low profile, critics praised the ambitious take on New York City sex scene during the 70s and 80s. In particular, the performance of Maggie Gyllenhaals riveting portrayal of sex worker Candy Renee, who sees the opportunity to become a director in the emerging pornography industry, was beloved by many. The character is loosely based on adult film actress and director Candida Royalle.
Only able to muster a single Golden Globe nom for lead actress in a tv series (drama), the pocket of followers will always remember our time with Candy.
Nelsan Ellis - True Blood
Role: Lafayette Reynolds
Created by: Alan Ball
Years showed aired: 2008-2014
Number of episodes appeared: 81
Passion and fire, Nelan Ellis Lafayette Reynolds, Merlottes cook, and Taras (Rutina Wesley) cousin doesnt take any shit from anyone. He stands his ground, giving people the dose of reality they need to hear (or feel), and eventually explores Wicca, which later leads to the discovery that he is a medium, like his Mamie. Ellis showed restraint in times we expected boisterous responses, which pointed to his smart instincts as an artist.
We lost Nelsan Ellis far too young at the age of 39, and the extraordinary promise he had already shown and could have achieved remains one of lifes bleak mysteries.
Frances Conroy - Six Feet Under
Role: Ruth Fisher
Created by: Alan Ball
Years showed aired: 2001-2005
Number of episodes appeared: 63
Before she walked into the land of American Horror Story, the blue-eyed sensation Frances Conroy was the matriarch of the Fisher family in Alan Balls acclaimed drama series. Picking up Emmy noms across the multiple seasons, she showed courage and vulnerability in key moments such as her trip to the self-help ground during season two or shooting all of her ex-lovers in a killer dream sequence.
Laura Dern - Enlightened
Role: Amy Jellicoe
Created by: Laura Dern, Mike White
Years showed aired: 2011-2013
Number of episodes appeared: 18
Pick a Dern, any Dern, and youd be right.
Laura Dern has been fabulous in many HBO series and movies including Jay Roachs Recount (2008) and Jennifer Foxs The Tale (2018). The short time spent with her Amy Jellicoe on Enlightened, which she co-created with The White Lotus writer and director Mike White (who also co-stars), is daring and unassuming with her take on a self-destructive woman who creates havoc after a spiritual awakening.
Mark Ruffalo - I Know This Much is True
Role: Dominick Birdsey / Thomas Birdsey
Created by: Derek Cianfrance, Anya Epstein (based on the novel by Wally Lamb)
Years showed aired: 2020
Number of episodes appeared: 6
Mark Ruffalo won his first Emmy award for best actor limited during the pandemic for his double duty as identical twin brothers Dominick and Thomas. Taking place in the early 1990s, this admittedly heavy drama may not be the easiest of watches, especially dealing with mental illness, but Ruffalos remarkable dedication to the characters makes the endeavor more than worth it.
John Kassir - Tales from the Crypt
Image Credit: Courtesy of HBO Role: The Cryptkeeper
Created by: Steven Dodd
Years showed aired: 1989-1996
Number of episodes appeared: 93
You dont need to see their face to understand the brilliance of an actor.
The Cryptkeeper, voiced by John Kassir, wasnt only terrifying, but charmingly witty throughout the multiple seasons of the anthology series. Venturing off to create great spin-off movies, the Maryland-born voice artist is something the Television Academy should award one of its Honorary statuettes in the near future.
J.K. Simmons - Oz
Role: Vern Schillinger
Created by: Tom Fontana
Years showed aired: 1997-2003
Number of episodes appeared: 56
One of televisions most revered villains is none other than Vernon, the inmate of Oswald Maximum Security Penitentiary. Alongside a fantastic cast that includes Ernie Hudson and Harold Perrineau, the tyrannical high-ranking member of the Brotherhood controls his prey with trickery and deception, all incredibly used components used from Simmons toolbelt of acting methods.
Michael C. Hall - Six Feet Under
Image Credit: HBO/Kobal/REX/Shutterstock Role: David Fisher
Created by: Alan Ball
Years showed aired: 2001-2005
Number of episodes appeared: 63
Before he was Dexter Morgan, Michael C. Hall was David, the uptight middle child of the Fisher family, who is coming to terms with his sexuality in the Alan Ball drama classic. So convincing in the role, he was able to pick up an Emmy nom for lead actor drama (unfortunately only once) during his tenure. A popular and beloved figure from the show, Halls work is a standout.
Bill Hader - Barry
Image Credit: Courtesy of HBO Role: Barry Berkman
Created by: Alec Berg, Bill Hader
Years showed aired: 2018-2023
Number of episodes appeared: 32
The dark comedy about a hitman who falls in love with the craft of acting was a perfect fit for comedian Bill Hader, who got a rousing start on NBCs Saturday Night Live. However, Haders extraordinary shifts from Barrys dual identities of a cold, calculated killer to a vulnerable, passionate actor are among his most memorable moments. He infuses the subtle nuances that help the viewer through Barrys tortured journey, which deservedly brought Hader two Emmys for the first two seasons.
Jeremy Strong - Succession
Image Credit: Courtesy of Macall Polay/HBO Role: Kendall Roy
Created by: Jesse Armstrong
Years showed aired: 2018-2023
Number of episodes appeared: 39 episodes
Kendall Roy may love rap music, but Jeremy Strong loves acting more. A dedicated actor, the powerhouse performer fully immerses himself in the role of the eldest Roy son (according to Kendall, even though his brother Connor is very much alive), arguably the most bloodthirsty for the throne. His meticulous attention to detail embraces Kendalls tormenting complexities, producing a lasting impact on one of televisions most urgent drama series.
Justin Theroux - The Leftovers
Role: Kevin Garvey
Created by: Damon Lindelof, Tom Perrotta
Years showed aired: 2014-2017
Number of episodes appeared: 28
Hindsight is always 20/20, and the love that has befallen The Leftovers following its short three-year stint is the perfect example. Justin Therouxs work as Kevin Garvey, a father and chief of police who desperately tries to bring normalcy and reasoning to his town after 2% of the worlds population disappears, is astounding. Similar to the late support that followed Matthew Rhys in The Americans, fans found solace in the moments that make you cry (like him walking back into the house in the season two finale Youre home) and all the magic created with his co-star Carrie Coon.
Julianne Nicholson - Mare of Easttown
Image Credit: HBO Role: Lori Ross
Created by: Brad Ingelsby
Years showed aired: 2021
Number of episodes appeared: 7
However great you think actress Julianne Nicholson is, know you’re wrong. She’s better than that. When millions of viewers watched the finale of the HBO limited series, we witnessed the full arsenal Nicholson has been equipped with for decades. In a pivotal scene where Lori spills into her friend Mare’s arms (played by her Emmy-winning co-star Kate Winslet) or when she whales her motherly anguish after the emotional reveal of the murder, “It’s Ryan! My Ryan!” Only the most skilled thespians can convey such fragility. Its why she walked away with the Emmy for her towering performance.
Regina King - Watchmen
Image Credit: Mark Hill/HBO Role: Angela Abar / Sister Night
Created by: Damon Lindelof
Years showed aired: 2019
Number of episodes appeared: 9
You couldnt have convinced me that Regina King would one day win an Emmy for a superhero series, but alas, theres nothing she cant do. In the Damon Lindelof limited series, she commands the screen alongside a killer ensemble, as a different interpretation of the comic book series. A true delight.
Cynthia Nixon - Sex and the City
Role: Miranda Hobbes
Created by: Darren Star
Years showed aired: 1998-2004
Number of episodes appeared: 94
The bones of a great actor are made on the stage, and thats proven by Cynthia Nixons take on Miranda Hobbes, the cynical lawyer and Carries voice of reason. In a quartet of strong women where Carrie needs a lot of hand-holding, Charlotte (Kristin Davis) is too positive for some of us and Samantha is relentlessly herself, Miranda really is the best character, and thats thanks to Nixons warm and direct deliveries.
Her third Emmy nom was the charm, finally winning her statuette for the dramedys final season in 2004, which made many rejoice.
Jeffrey Wright - Angels in America
Role: Mr. Lies / Norman “Belize” Arriaga / Homeless man / The Angel Europa
Created by: Tony Kushner (based on his 1991 play)
Years showed aired: 2003
Number of episodes appeared: 6
The adaptation of Tony Kushners stage play is a masterpiece and among the top five best endeavors of HBOs history. You could make an argument for almost every actor making a play for a spot on this list but Jeffrey Wrights Emmy-winning turn stands as his finest acting moment yet. Listen again to his speech about love being ambivalent for all the proof you need.
Issa Rae - Insecure
Image Credit: HBO Role: Issa Dee
Created by: Issa Rae, Larry Wilmore
Years showed aired: 2016-2021
Number of episodes appeared: 44
This will be our first television season without Issa Dee in it, and honestly, Im not looking forward to it. Issa Raes creation and expansion of her web series are lovely in almost every way, as she captures comedy and life in a way we couldnt imagine. Multiple Emmy noms couldnt bring a win but we dont need it to say with certainty, shes one of the best ones that HBO has offered.
Sarah Snook - Succession
Image Credit: Macall Polay / HBO Role: Siobhan Shiv Roy
Created by: Jesse Armstrong
Years showed aired: 2018-2023
Number of episodes appeared: 39 episodes
Intriguing, intelligent and utterly unpredictable, Sarah Snooks captivating work as the political fixer and only daughter of Logan Roy packs a punch. Snook expertly conveys the evolving relationship with her beau Tom and the exploration of the gender dynamics, possessing a sharp wit and assuredness as an actor and authority figure likely to be debated for all-time (especially given the shows finale).
Long live Shiv!
Lorraine Bracco - The Sopranos
Role: Dr. Jennifer Melfi
Created by: David Chase
Years showed aired: 1999-2007
Number of episodes appeared: 71
Therapy works, especially if Lorraine Bracco is your doctor.
Always great at playing women caught up in the lives of mobsters, shown by her Oscar-nominated work in Goodfellas (1990), her work as Tony Sopranos psychiatrist had her extend herself far beyond where we thought she could stretch as an actor. With memorable scenes, nothing takes better conveys her power than her rejection of Tony in which she yells, Fuck you Youre a fucking cunt!
Braccos Emmy runs for the character were complicated with three noms in lead, and one in supporting for the final season (alongside Aida Turturro) which she shockingly lost to Katherine Heigl for Greys Anatomy in the most shocking Emmy upset in recent memory.
Meryl Streep - Angels in America
Role: Hannah Pitt / Ethel Rosenberg / The Rabbi / The Angel Australia
Created by: Tony Kushner (based on his 1991 play)
Years showed aired: 2003
Number of episodes appeared: 6
Its Meryl Streep. Seeing her on any list that reflects on the best of is almost always a given. Her transformations throughout Mike Nichols masterpiece is otherworldly. In one of the best sequences when Street delivers the eulogy as The Rabbi, you see why shes one of the best actors in history.
Ian McShane - Deadwood
Role: Al Swearengen
Created by: David Milch
Years showed aired: 2004-2006
Number of episodes appeared: 36
You can never count out a good western, and with it, a performance such as Ian McShanes Al Swearengen in the classic Deadwood, that has built a legion of followers since its time. That love even led to a movie (that wasnt well-received) but shows how much people wanted to see McShane back in the saddle.
Lena Headey - Game of Thrones
Image Credit: Courtesy of HBO Role: Cersei Lannister
Created by: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
Years showed aired: 2011-2019
Number of episodes appeared: 62
Cersei becomes so many things in Game of Thrones.
Shes a widow, a grieving mother, an incestuous monster and a blood-thirsty monarch. All of this was generated through precision and design by the incredible Lena Headey. From the meticulous and hard-formed exterior, she shines in the moments that would have been throwaways in any other actors hands, such as the now everlasting meme: I choose violence.
Five Emmy nominations came her way, but unfortunately, with not any invitation to the stage. Maybe in the next life.
Edie Falco - The Sopranos
Role: Carmela Soprano
Created by: David Chase
Years showed aired: 1999-2007
Number of episodes appeared: 85
The struggling and suffering wife role takes on new meaning under the guidance of Edie Falco in the classic crime series. One of the high points of the series is the Season 4, Episode 13 piece Whitecaps, which has her unleashing all her fury upon Tony about cheating and other transgressions.
Six Emmy noms across the show, with three wins, Falco is the co-founder of bad-ass women on TV.
Kieran Culkin - Succession
Image Credit: Macall Polay / HBO Role: Roman Roy
Created by: Jesse Armstrong
Years showed aired: 2018-2023
Number of episodes appeared: 39 episodes
An integral piece of one of HBOs most engrossing cast ensembles, Kieran Culkin crafts a multi-dimensional Roman Roy, full of moral complexity and rich development thanks to creator Jesse Armstrongs brilliant writing. His masterful delivery and precise timing of Romans signature one-liners created one of the finest character arcs of the beloved series. Culkins range, which adeptly captures his wide spectrum of emotions (i.e., talking to his dying Dad or delivering the eulogy), will remain engraved in television history.
Bill Paxton - Big Love
Role: Bill Henrickson
Created by: Mark V. Olsen, Will Scheffer
Years showed aired: 2006-2011
Number of episodes appeared: 53
Before the reality show Sister Wives, HBO had us gripped with Big Love led by the star power of the vivacious Bill Paxton alongside a troupe of powerhouse women including Jeanne Tripplehorn, Chloë Sevigny and Ginnifer Goodwin. His Bill Henrickson, steeped in religion and blinded by his own needs, is terrifically executed.
Id give anything to get another Paxton performance these days.
Garry Shandling - The Larry Sanders Show
Role: Larry Sanders
Created by: Garry Shandling, Dennis Klein
Years showed aired: 1992-1998
Number of episodes appeared: 89
The fictional late-night talk show host Larry Sanders put HBO on the map in pop culture in the early 90s. Thats thanks to Garry Shandlings hilarious and fearless portrayal brings this satirical look to new heights. With funny bits with Artie (Rip Torn) and Hank (Jeffrey Tambor), his warm-up routines and biting monologues are tattooed on the artistic skin of every late night show, real or fake, that exists today.
Lisa Kudrow - The Comeback
Image Credit: Courtesy of HBO Role: Valerie Cherish
Created by: Michael Patrick King, Lisa Kudrow
Years showed aired: 2005-2014
Number of episodes appeared: 21
Lisa Kudrow is, and will always be Phoebe Buffay. However, Valerie Cherish is the alter-ego and one we cannot deny. One of the rare instances of a series that were so amazing, that HBO didnt know what to do with it, its short two-season stint made a profound impact and Kudrows portrayal landed a coveted Emmy nomination for lead actress comedy.
A revival would be welcomed if HBO felt compelled to do so. Just saying
Brian Cox - Succession
Image Credit: Courtesy of Macall B. Polay/HBO Role: Logan Roy
Created by: Jesse Armstrong
Years showed aired: 2018-2023
Number of episodes appeared: 39 episodes
As the central figure on which the entire premise rests upon the choices, Scottish veteran Brian Cox chooses to push the wealthy Roy patriarch. And he pushes him to the limit. Always dependable for a reliable fuck off line, its Coxs intricate nuances that reveal the Waystar Royco CEOs flaws, vulnerabilities and motivations across the four dramatic seasons. With renowned and biting dialogue, Cox created a symphony of cohesive storytelling tied to his talented cast of actors.
Nicole Kidman - Big Little Lies
Image Credit: HBO Role: Celeste Wright
Created by: David E. Kelley
Years showed aired: 2017-2019
Number of episodes appeared: 14
With Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern in tow, Nicole Kidmans career took on new heights when she played the abused Celeste Wright in David E. Kelleys limited series (later turned drama series when it returned for a second season). Sweeping the TV prizes, Kidmans delectable turn and scene exchanges with Alexander Skarsgård, are among the most compelling moments for her as an actor.
Matthew McConaughey - True Detective
Image Credit: Courtesy of HBO Role: Rustin “Rust” Cohle
Created by: Nic Pizzolatto
Years showed aired: 2014 (season one anthology story)
Number of episodes appeared: 8
Its believed in the awards pundit world that part of Matthew McConaugheys Oscar win for Dallas Buyers Club was for what he brings to True Detective opposite Woody Harrelson. A transformative performance that stands cleanly as the finest acting work of his career. If only the anthology series could capture that magic once again in future seasons.
Michaela Coel - I May Destroy You
Image Credit: BBC/Various Artists Ltd and FALKNA/Natalie Seery Role: Arabella
Created by: Michaela Coel
Years showed aired: 2020
Number of episodes appeared: 12
A recent selection but one that is deserved as Michaela Coels work as a writer, director, producer and actress on the limited series I May Destroy You is brave as it unravels the emotional complexities of sexual assault and survival. Infusing humor in serious subject matter, Coels Arabella is a showcase for Black women in a business that often is ignored. She won an Emmy for writing, but also picked up noms for outstanding limited series, lead actress and directing, the first Black woman to achieve this feat.
Peter Dinklage - Game of Thrones
Image Credit: Helen Sloan/HBO Role: Tyrion Lannister
Created by: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
Years showed aired: 2011-2019
Number of episodes appeared: 67
The most awarded actor ever in the best supporting actor drama category at the Emmys, Peter Dinklages Tyrion Lannister brings the audience on a resounding journey in the fantastical HBO series. With his interactions with his older siblings Cersei (Lena Headey) and Jamie (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau), his wit and charm to overcome the prejudices of the world that only sees him as a dwarf, he becomes an eventual emotional pillar of the show.
If only we could get that Season 8 redo, and have Tyrion become king, we could right a terrible wrong (no offense Bran).
Michael K. Williams - The Wire
Role: Omar Little
Created by: David Simon
Years showed aired: 2002-2008
Number of episodes appeared: 51
Michael K. Williams could have been on this list two other times with Boardwalk Empire and The Night Of, but his turn as Omar Little, the stick-up man with a strict moral code in The Wire, stands as his brightest in a sea of luminous performances. Its strange that none of the actors five Emmy noms were for the David Simon series, but considering that the show only was able to nab two writing noms across its entire tenure, its not too surprising.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus - Veep
Image Credit: Courtesy of HBO Role: Selina Meyer
Created by: Armando Iannucci
Years showed aired: 2012-2019
Number of episodes appeared: 65
It was almost a clean sweep for Julia Louis-Dreyfus at the Emmys, winning six consecutive lead actress comedy statuettes for her work as the fictional vice president of the United States. Almost painstakingly ahead of its time, we had no idea how it would mirror our current political climate, and if were being honest, Id take the world by Iannucci compared to what we currently have going on in America. Nonetheless, Dreyfus soaring timing, larger-than-life persona and expert acting techniques showcase why shes cemented as the first lady of comedy TV.
Carrie Coon - The Leftovers
Image Credit: Courtesy HBO Role: Nora Durst
Created by: Damon Lindelof, Tom Perrotta
Years showed aired: 2014-2017
Number of episodes appeared: 28
When you look at the history of HBOs loudest, and most bombastic performances, at first glance, Carrie Coons Nora Durst, the wife and mother who lost her entire family in the Sudden Departure. And the reader may not understand why Coons work is listed so high, especially above notable Emmy-winning turns from other actors. I can only assume you didnt watch the entirety of The Leftovers, which builds for three seasons and culminates on an eight-minute monologue in the series finale where Nora reveals to Kevin what shes been doing in the decade since their hotel room fight. Eight minutes of precision, articulation and artistic glory exist in the eyes of Coon, with no flashbacks. Were only left with ambiguity yet satisfaction in what may or may not have been.
The biggest crime? Not a single Emmy nom for Coon across the multiple seasons. In fact, only one for the entire series a deserving one for Ann Dowd in guest actress drama.
James Gandolfini - The Sopranos
Role: Tony Soprano
Created by: David Chase
Years showed aired: 1999-2007
Number of episodes appeared: 86
You could have easily placed the entire cast of The Sopranos on this list, all giving their own qualities and contributions that would eventually lead to James Gandolfinis New Jersey mob boss Tony Soprano. You dont get the psychological understanding without Jennifer Melfi (Lorraine Bracco), the love without Carmela (Edie Falco), the God-like presence without Christopher (Michael Imperioli), the loyalty without Silvio (Steven Van Zandt) or the reality of his consequences and betrayal without Adriana (Drea de Matteo).
The late actors legacy is pronounced and known. Before Breaking Bad and Mad Men, the HBO crime series revolutionized television, with Gandolfinis interpretation of mental health and impulsive nature that could have one episode looking like its going one way, before rapidly going elsewhere. There is no HBO without The Sopranos and there is no Sopranos without Gandolfini.
Three Emmy wins later, they were all deserved.