NBC; Lifetime; FX; ABCTV today is an embarrassment of riches, so it makes sense that there were plenty of annoying snubs when the 2016 Emmy nominations were announced. But the good news is that in this age of peak TV, there are also plenty of worthy shows that finally received the nominations they so deserved.
You might've noticed when all of TV Twitter went crazy, but the Television Academy has, after four hold-your-breath suspenseful seasons, finally recognized the brilliance of FX's The Americans.
Below, find a list of some of our other favorite underdog shows that received their much overdue nods.
The Americans (FX)
Four seasons in and this 1980s-set Cold War spy drama keeps getting better. No, seriously. If you still haven't pulled the trigger on this one, now's the time to get on board—especially since there are only two seasons left.
Black-ish (ABC)
It only took two seasons for the brilliant, topical, and most importantly, ultra-funny Black-ish to get nods—plus, nominations for stars Anthony Anderson (who was nominated last year) and Tracee Ellis Ross.
The Affair (Showtime)
Believe it or not, despite winning several Golden Globe statues, Showtime's Roshomon-style multi-POV drama finally earned its very first Emmy nomination, for star Maura Tierney. (All hail, Helen!)
RuPaul's Drag Race (Logo)
Yasss, queen! RuPaul earned his first Emmy nomination ever for hosting his Logo reality competition, and we couldn't be happier.
Catastrophe (Amazon Prime)
Okay, so this British import was only recognized for writing, but still—that's a huge win for the little rom-com that could, about an American businessman and an Irish teacher who discover their one night stand (okay, several night stand) has led to a baby.
Mr. Robot (USA)
The TV Academy didn't let this one pass by, actually, considering it landed nominations for its heralded first season, but then again, how often does the Academy recognize niche, genre-bending series from the get-go?
UnREAL (Lifetime)
The show itself and phenomenal star Shiri Appleby were both snubbed, but let's take things one step at a time. The fact that Constance Zimmer was recognized for this dark drama about the behind-the-scenes of a Bachelor-esque dating show is incredible, especially since The Bachelor itself is still on the perma-snub list.
Baskets (FX)
This bizarre comedy isn't exactly for everyone, which makes the fact that Louie Anderson landed a nod for his portrayal of Zach Galifianakis' mother—yes, mother—all the more miraculous. And totally welcome.
Master of None (Netflix)
Is Aziz Ansari the new Louis C.K.? Find out for yourself with his insightful Netflix comedy, which you should most definitely binge ASAP if you've been sleeping on its brilliance.
Honorable mention:
Getting On (HBO)
Just because this criminally underrated and under-watched drama has already aired its series finale doesn't mean it—and the triple-nominated Laurie Metcalf—isn't worth your binge hours.
What are your favorite underdog shows that finally got their overdue Emmy recognition? Leave your suggestions in the comments below!