The 2026 Emmy Awards are set to celebrate a strong showing from British talent, with several prominent actors and actresses earning nominations for their acclaimed performances. Among the notable contenders are Hollywood stars Carey Mulligan and Gary Oldman, both recognized for their significant contributions to television.
Carey Mulligan Secures First Emmy Nomination
Carey Mulligan has received her first-ever Emmy nomination, earning a nod for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or TV Movie. Her recognition comes for her compelling performance in the second season of Netflix’s dark comedy series, Beef. In the critically acclaimed show, Mulligan portrays Lindsay, an interior designer whose life becomes entangled in a dramatic feud stemming from a road rage incident.
The series Beef, which premiered in 2023, captivated audiences and critics alike with its exploration of escalating conflict between two strangers. Created by Lee Sung Jin, the American comedy-drama stars Steven Yeun and Ali Wong. The show’s success was previously highlighted when it swept all three of its categories at the Golden Globe Awards. Beef is also nominated for Outstanding Limited Series at the upcoming Emmys.
Mulligan faces stiff competition in her category from a talented field, including Claire Danes for The Beast In Me, Sally Field for Remarkably Bright Creatures, Sarah Pidgeon for Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette, and Sarah Snook for All Her Fault.
Gary Oldman Nominated for Lead Actor in a Drama Series
Veteran actor Sir Gary Oldman, 68, has also earned a prestigious nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. His recognition is for his powerful portrayal of Jackson Lamb, a brilliant but disgraced spy, in the Apple TV+ thriller Slow Horses. The British spy series has garnered significant attention for its gripping storylines and strong performances.
Oldman is nominated alongside fellow British actor Rufus Sewell, who is recognized for his role in The Diplomat. Other nominees in the category include Sterling K. Brown for Paradise, Mark Ruffalo for Task, and Noah Wyle for The Pitt.
The success of Slow Horses extends beyond Oldman’s nomination, with the series itself receiving nods for Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Writing, and Outstanding Directing. This multi-category recognition underscores the show’s critical acclaim and widespread appeal.
Further British Recognition Across Categories
The wave of British talent extends to other acting categories as well. Scottish actor Jack Lowden has received a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his work on Slow Horses. Meanwhile, British actress Kate O’Flynn is nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in Widow’s Bay.
In the race for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or TV Movie, English actor Charlie Hunnam is nominated for his role in Monster: The Ed Gein Story. He will compete against fellow English actor Riz Ahmed, recognized for his performance in Bait.
Scottish actor and comedian Richard Gadd has also earned an Emmy nomination for his role in Half Man, following his acclaimed work on Netflix’s Baby Reindeer.
Emmy Awards 2026 Schedule
The main 2026 Emmy Awards ceremony is scheduled to broadcast live on NBC and Peacock on Monday, September 14, starting at 8 p.m. EST (5 p.m. PST). Prior to the main event, the Creative Arts Emmy Awards will take place over two days, Saturday, September 5, and Sunday, September 6. This earlier ceremony typically honors achievements in areas such as technical crafts, guest acting, and other specialized categories.
The nominations highlight the significant impact British actors and productions are continuing to make on the global television landscape, with a diverse range of performances recognized across major categories.
