Emmy Predictions: Lead Actor in a Drama Series - Lee Jung-jae Makes History with "Squid Game"

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UPDATED: August 1, 2022

2022 EMMYS PREDICTIONS: OUTSTANDING LEADING ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES

REWARDS PREDICTION COMMENT:

Netflix's record-breaking 'Squid Game' landed a respectable nomination, and its star Lee Jung-jae got the competition rolling on the awards circuit. Entering phase two of voting with a Critics Choice, a Golden Globe and a SAG Award is significant. Lee would also be the first Asian in the category and the fourth of Asian descent (after Riz Ahmed, Darren Criss and Archie Panjabi).

With three names this year for producing, directing and starring as Marty Byrde in the final season of Netflix's "Ozark," Jason Bateman has won 13 career Emmys. With just one directing win in 2019, he's yet to win an acting award. Interestingly, six of the previous 10 lead actor drama winners over the past decade have won for their final seasons. Maybe Bateman can continue this trend.

The intensity of Brian Cox's character, Logan Roy, increased dramatically in the third season of "Succession," and Cox took full advantage of his opportunities, earning his fourth career nomination. With the series leading the Emmys tally with 25, chances are one of the series' two co-leads will walk away with the trophy. He won a supporting actor trophy in 2001.

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