The 15 Greatest Emmy-Winning Performances, Ranked

The Emmys have celebrated incredible talent in television for decades, honoring actors who bring characters to life in ways that stick with us long after the screen fades. From gut-wrenching dramas to sharp comedies, these performances have shaped how I view great acting.

I’ve compiled a list of the 15 greatest Emmy-winning performances, ranked from the least to the most iconic based on their impact, emotional depth, and lasting influence. These are the roles that had me glued to the screen, showcasing the power of television storytelling.

Ed Asner as Lou Grant – Lou Grant (1977-1982)

Ed Asner’s Lou Grant is a gruff yet warm-hearted newsroom boss whose tough exterior hides a deep sense of duty. His grounded performance carries the show’s blend of journalism and human drama.

I admired how Asner made Lou both intimidating and lovable, balancing sharp wit with quiet vulnerability. His Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series feels well-earned for this memorable role.

Betty White as Rose Nylund – The Golden Girls (1985-1992)

Betty White’s Rose Nylund is the sweet, naive member of the Golden Girls quartet, delivering hilarious stories with a childlike charm. Her comedic timing shines in every heartfelt or absurd moment.

I laughed at Rose’s quirky innocence, which White plays to perfection. Her Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series celebrates her ability to make simple lines unforgettable.

Cloris Leachman as Phyllis Lindstrom – The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970-1977)

Cloris Leachman’s Phyllis is a self-absorbed yet oddly charming neighbor whose over-the-top personality steals scenes. Her sharp delivery elevates the show’s ensemble humor.

I found Phyllis’s smug confidence hilarious, thanks to Leachman’s bold choices. Her Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series honors her knack for making every moment pop.

Alan Alda as Hawkeye Pierce – MAS*H (1972-1983)

Alan Alda’s Hawkeye is a wisecracking surgeon whose humor masks the pain of war. His ability to blend comedy with raw emotion defines the show’s heart.

I was captivated by Alda’s charm and depth, especially in tense scenes. His Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series reflects his skill in balancing laughs and tears.

Ted Danson as Sam Malone – Cheers (1982-1993)

Ted Danson’s Sam Malone, the charming ex-baseball star turned bar owner, anchors ‘Cheers’ with his smooth charisma and flawed humanity. His light touch keeps the comedy flowing.

I loved Danson’s easygoing vibe, making Sam both a heartthrob and a mess. His Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series rewards his magnetic presence.

Candice Bergen as Murphy Brown – Murphy Brown (1988-1998)

Candice Bergen’s Murphy Brown is a fierce, witty journalist navigating a male-dominated newsroom. Her sharp delivery and confidence make the character a standout.

I admired Bergen’s ability to make Murphy both tough and relatable. Her Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series celebrates a role that broke barriers for women on TV.

Sarah Paulson as Marcia Clark – The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story (2016)

Sarah Paulson’s Marcia Clark captures the prosecutor’s strength and struggles during the O.J. Simpson trial. Her layered performance shows both professional grit and personal turmoil.

I was moved by Paulson’s raw portrayal, especially in moments of vulnerability. Her Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series honors a deeply human performance.

Sterling K. Brown as Christopher Darden – The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story (2016)

Sterling K. Brown’s Christopher Darden brings emotional weight to the O.J. Simpson trial, torn between duty and community loyalty. His quiet intensity grounds the legal drama.

I felt Brown’s pain in every conflicted glance, making Darden unforgettable. His Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series is a nod to his powerful subtlety.

Elisabeth Moss as June Osborne – The Handmaid’s Tale (2017-2025)

Elisabeth Moss’s June Osborne is a defiant survivor in a dystopian nightmare, radiating strength and despair. Her raw emotion drives the show’s intense narrative.

I was gripped by Moss’s ability to convey hope amid horror. Her Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series reflects her commanding presence in every scene.

Viola Davis as Annalise Keating – How to Get Away with Murder (2014-2020)

Viola Davis’s Annalise Keating is a brilliant, flawed lawyer whose intensity fuels the show’s twists. Her commanding presence makes every courtroom scene electric.

I was blown away by Davis’s mix of power and vulnerability. Her Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series marks a historic win for a trailblazing role.

Aaron Paul as Jesse Pinkman – Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

Aaron Paul’s Jesse Pinkman is the heart of ‘Breaking Bad,’ a troubled young man caught in a world of crime. His raw emotion makes every scene hit hard.

I felt for Jesse’s pain and growth, thanks to Paul’s gripping performance. His Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series celebrates his unforgettable depth.

Jessica Lange as Fiona Goode – American Horror Story: Coven (2011-2025)

Jessica Lange’s Fiona Goode is a glamorous, ruthless witch whose wit and menace dominate ‘American Horror Story: Coven.’ Her bold performance elevates the horror genre.

I was captivated by Lange’s fierce charisma and sharp delivery. Her Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series proves her mastery of campy drama.

Jon Hamm as Don Draper – Mad Men (2007-2015)

Jon Hamm’s Don Draper is a suave ad man hiding a fractured past, anchoring ‘Mad Men’ with quiet intensity. His layered performance captures a man unraveling.

I was drawn to Hamm’s ability to make Don both magnetic and broken. His Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series honors a defining role of the era.

Bryan Cranston as Walter White – Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

Bryan Cranston’s Walter White transforms from a desperate teacher to a ruthless drug kingpin, driving ‘Breaking Bad’ with chilling depth. His journey is both terrifying and tragic.

I was stunned by Cranston’s shift from meek to menacing, making every moment gripping. His Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series celebrates a legendary performance.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Selina Meyer – Veep (2012-2019)

Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s Selina Meyer is a hilariously flawed politician whose sharp wit and chaos define ‘Veep.’ Her comedic genius makes every insult land perfectly.

I laughed at Selina’s selfish antics, brought to life by Louis-Dreyfus’s flawless timing. Her six consecutive Emmys for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series cement her as the greatest.

Which Emmy-winning performance is your favorite, or did I miss one that blew you away? Share your thoughts in the comments!