Emmys 2018: Who Should Win Every Award (And Who Actually Will)
3. Lead Actor In A Drama Series
Nominees: Jason Bateman, Ozark; Matthew Rhys, The Americans; Sterling K. Brown, This Is Us; Milo Ventimiglia, This Is Us; Ed Harris, Westworld; Jeffrey Wright, Westworld
Should Win: Matthew Rhys
Rhys has long been deserving of some recognition for his performance as Phillip Jennings, but his work in Season 6 is worthy on its own merits, not just as some kind of series achievement award. He's plumbed the character for absolutely every ounce of depth and emotion, took him to some seriously dark places, and left it all out there for viewers to see.
Will Win: Sterling K. Brown
Brown won the award last year, and remains the beating heart of the hugely popular This Is Us, while he himself is a popular figure in the industry. He didn't win for Oustanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series, which might mean voters have been saving their love for this category instead. That being said, if The Americans is to get an award in one of the big three drama categories, this is its best chance.