Sarah Joy Brown: Sarah Joy Brown should have been nominated for “Outstanding Lead Actress in a Digital Drama Series” for her powerful work in Studio City as Laurie. Her scene opposite Tristan Rogers (who played Doc) was devastating, authentic and sincere. The only downside for her was limited screen time.
Jaclyn Bethany: Jaclyn should have been nominated for “Outstanding Lead Actress in a Digital Drama Series” for playing Anne in The Rehearsal, which she also wrote and directed. Two of her fellow actors were nominated for their acting performances, but the Emmy Awards overlooked Jaclyn and her memorable work. Many New York viewers can relate to this digital series, especially since life imitates art.
Kevin Spirtas: Kevin Spirtas deserved to at least be nominated for “Outstanding Lead Actor in a Digital Drama Series” for his exceptional and moving performance as Brian in After Forever, which was the most compelling to date. In the final episode of the second season, Spirtas gave a heartbreaking performance that made viewers forget that they were watching a show, and instead made them feel as if they were experiencing real life. It was captivating and resonant. The only downside was that Spirtas won this category last year, so the Television Academy may want to reward a new actor this year in an effort to spread the love around.
Judith McConnell: Judith should have been nominated for “Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Digital Drama Series” for playing the worried mother in The Bay as her on-screen daughter (played by Mary Beth Evans) goes missing. Any parent or viewer could relate to her pain.
Anita Gillette: Anita Gillette was worthy of a nomination for “Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Digital Drama Series” for playing Frannie in After Forever. She was exceptional in every scene this season, especially opposite her on-screen husband (played by Lenny Wolpe). Wolpe scored a 2020 Emmy nod in the “Supporting Actor in a Digital Drama” category, but Gillette’s mournful performance went unnoticed by the Television Academy.
Vivica A. Fox: In an already competitive “Guest Performer” category, Vivica A. Fox deserved to be nominated for her work in The Bay on Amazon Prime. Her scenes opposite scene partner Jade Harlow (2020 Lead Actress nominee) were nothing short of heartfelt and astonishing.
Mike McGowan: Mike McGowan also deserved a nod for “Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Digital Drama Series” for playing David in After Forever. He and Kevin Spirtas had great chemistry together and the audience felt his endearing performance.
King Ester: While King Ester garnered four well-deserved nominations (including nods for “Outstanding Writing Team” and “Outstanding Directing Team”), it also deserved to be inducted in lineup in the coveted “Outstanding Digital Drama Series” category. From an emotional standpoint, it was this year’s equivalent of Giants. It was bold and daring, and it spotlighted a lot of important issues such as racial injustice in the LGBTQ and African-American communities. Rowin Amone and Janet Hubert commanded the screen the entire time they were on.
After Forever: After Forever deserved a nod for “Outstanding Directing Team for a Digital Drama Series.” Director Tina Cesa Ward was able to brilliantly direct the show’s most compelling season to date, which left viewers thirsty for more. The pathos of this digital series was palpable through her lens.
Venice: The Series: Aside from Gregory Zarian scoring a nomination for “Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Digital Drama Series,” Venice: The Series deserved to be recognized with an Emmy nomination for its transcendent writing, as they explore a plethora of social issues in a bold yet refreshing manner.
