"Mad Men" is poised to be anointed outstanding drama during Sunday's Emmy ceremonies for the fourth time, a feat achieved only by "The West Wing," "L.A. Law" and "Hill Street Blues." But there's one thing the AMC series has failed to accomplish: any awards for acting.
That may change this year, thanks to the fact that three-time winner Bryan Cranston ("Breaking Bad") is not in the running and that "Mad" stars Jon Hamm and Elisabeth Moss submitted the episode, "The Suitcase," a tour de force for both actors.
But don't pop the bubbly just yet for the ad agency. The Emmys' story line also throws in some unexpected twists. Here are my best guesses at what to expect. Trust in these predictions at your own peril.
DRAMA
- Nominees: "Boardwalk Empire," "Dexter," "Friday Night Lights," "Game of Thrones," "The Good Wife," "Mad Men."
- Who should win: "Thrones" was royally good fun. Made me want to dust off my old Dungeons & Dragons set.
- Who will win: Stark raving "Mad."
COMEDY
- Nominees: "The Big Bang Theory," "Glee," "Modern Family," "The Office," "Parks and Recreation," "30 Rock."
- Who should win: Solid year for all contenders (except "Glee"). "Parks" needs -- and deserves -- the extra love.
- Who will win: "Modern" will probably clean up in this category for the next 20 years.
ACTOR, DRAMA
- Nominees: Steve Buscemi ("Boardwalk"), Kyle Chandler ("Friday"), Michael C. Hall ("Dexter"), Jon Hamm ("Mad Men"), Hugh Laurie ("House"), Timothy Olyphant ("Justified").
- Who should win: When it comes to bravado performances, it's all about Steve.
- Who will win: The curse has been lifted. Congrats, Mr. Hamm.
ACTRESS DRAMA
- Nominees: Kathy Bates ("Harry's Law"), Connie Britton ("Friday"), Mireille Enos ("The Killing"), Mariska Hargitay ("L&O: SVU"), Julianna Margulies ("The Good Wife"), Elisabeth Moss ("Mad Men").
- Who should and will win: Youth doesn't usually prevail in this category, but we're gambling on Moss upsetting a "Good" front-runner.
ACTOR, COMEDY
