Many shows that are popular and critically-acclaimed understandably get nominated for shows, while some shows don't get nominated at all -- which is frustrating.
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However, what's sometimes puzzling is when a show is nominated for an Emmy but isn't that popularly viewed, whether it's because it caters to a niche audience or because of poor marketing.
Whatever it may be, there are plenty of different Emmy-nominated shows out there that we think could get some more viewership. Here are 15 of our favorites!
1.
The Alienist
The Alienist is a unique period drama that follows a team as the members track the patterns of a serial killer in late 19th century New York City. It's a fascinating and engaging show that takes its role as a genre and period piece quite seriously, which makes the visuals compelling and the narrative interesting.
2.
An Emmy for Megan
This show, created by and starring comedian and TV writer Megan Amram (Parks and Recreation, Silicon Valley, The Good Place), is a satirical-attempt-turned-actual-attempt to win an Emmy. Amram discovered the minimum requirements to be considered for an Emmy in the short form series category, fulfilled it with this show, and is now nominated for two Emmys. She plays a fictionalized version of herself as she prepares to create a web series in order to win an Emmy. It's meta, utterly hysterically, and also quite short -- watch it online now!
3.
United Shades of America
Socio-political comedian W. Kamau Bell hosts United Shades of America, an Emmy-winning and currently Emmy-nominated show that follows him as he goes to race-focused communities and cultures, talking with individuals and learning more about them. He often goes into controversial or dangerous territories, talking with people all over the political spectrum. It's an enlightening show that's exciting, sometimes humorous, and always engaging.
4.
Portlandia
Portlandia stars former SNL cast member Fred Armisen and musician Carrie Brownstein in a sketch comedy series. The show often guest stars celebrities who play absurd characters in their fictionalized version of Portland. If you're looking for something to break the cycle of narrative TV, look no further.
5.
Steven Universe
Animated shows are often overshadowed by live-action shows, but Steven Universe shows that animated shows also deserve the limelight. The show spotlights plenty of positive queer representation, progressive ideals, and educational children's programming that is still great for all ages.
6.
American Vandal
American Vandal mashes a true crime story with a mockumentary format, creating the perfect satire of crime shows in a humorous format. However, it slowly unveils its secrets like a good mystery should, not letting the satire get in the way of good storytelling.
7.
The Tick
The Tick follows a non-superpowered man determined to become a superhero in a world where there are, in fact, superheroes -- but that won't stop him. It's engaging, lighthearted, and relatable -- and a unique turn in a time with plenty of mainstream superhero shows.
8.
Counterpart
J.K. Simmons starts in Counterpart, a science fiction thriller that follows a man who discovers that scientists created a portal to an alternate reality -- and discovers his counterpart in that alternate reality. It's an innovative premise with a darker feel that diverges from many science fiction shows of today -- in a good way.
9.
Lost in Space
If you're a fan of science fiction visuals, then Lost in Space is for you. This remake of the 1960s show follows a family who crash-lands and must survive, and the show is nominated for an Emmy in the visual effects category. The show puts visual effects at the forefront of the story, making it a compelling one for those fascinated by science fiction.
10.
Philip K. Dick's Electric Dreams
Like Black Mirror, Electric Dreams is an anthology series, but unlike Black Mirror, Electric Dreams takes on a lighter and less dystopian tone. Electric Dreams is comprised of adaptations of Philip K. Dick stories and will delight all those who enjoy literary science fiction and more traditional stories.
11.
Somebody Feed Phil
Phil Rosenthal, creator of Everybody Loves Raymond, will take you on a food journey across the world as he eats food from a variety of cultures. It's not quite a food show and not quite a travel show, but it will entertain you if you enjoy learning a bit about food. You'll certainly enjoy Phil as he lights up from trying all of the different cuisines.
12.
Patrick Melrose
Benedict Cumberbatch stars as the titular character, a man struggling with addiction, past trauma, and the first-world problem of having way too much money. The show takes a fascinating look at this new angle, diving deep into his personal life and a semi-autobiographical story.
13.
Godless
Godless, nominated for an expansive 12 Emmys, is a western series that follows a gang out for revenge against a deserter, but the members of the deserter's new town won't stand for the fighting. The show's visuals are stunning, the narrative is compelling, and the show is an all-around favorite that ultimately deserves more love.
14.
Waco
Waco takes on the stand-off in Waco, Texas, between FBI and several external parties. Although not a perfect show, it approaches a biographical and historical story in a much more effective way than other similar stories, even if it does dive into controversial territory. Ultimately, it's a powerful story that is compelling and visually interesting, tackling a challenging story.
15.
Mom
Premiering in an era of sitcoms, this Chuck Lorre-created comedy was often overshadowed by larger sitcoms including The Big Bang Theory (also created by Chuck Lorre). Now, Mom is overshadowed by cable shows and new single-camera comedies, but Mom has been going strong. Starring Anna Faris and Allison Janney, the show follows a daughter and mother, respectively, navigating addiction and their dysfunctional relationship after being estranged. Janney won two Emmys for her role in Mom and is currently nominated for another.