Before voting for the Emmy winners begins Aug. 17, Television Academy members are encouraged to watch all of the nominees’ episode submissions. While the lead and supporting acting episode submissions will be unveiled soon by Gold Derby, the guest stars’ choices in drama and comedy were publicly available on the nominating ballots.
Read on for everything to know about the Emmy episode submissions for Best Comedy Guest Actor, in which the six contenders include two first-time nominees and three former champions.
Michael J. Fox (Shrinking)
Episode: “The Field”
Character: Gerry
Recap: Gerry, a fellow Parkinson’s patient whose symptoms are far more severe than Paul’s own. The encounter between the characters helps provide not only a new perspective but some coping tools as well.
Emmy history: This is Fox’s 19th nomination; he previously won three for Family Ties (1986-88), one for Spin City (2000), and one for Rescue Me (2009).
Brett Goldstein (Shrinking)
Episode: “Happiness Mission”
Character: Louis
Recap: After killing Jimmy’s wife, Tia, in a drunk driving accident, Louis has difficulty coping with the repercussions of his actions. He tries to express his remorse by intentionally crossing paths with Jimmy and Alice. His life, so full of promise has now taken a 180 degree turn.
Emmy history: This is Goldstein’s eighth nomination; he previously won two for Ted Lasso (2021-22).
Hamish Linklater (Widow’s Bay)
Episode: “Seasickness”
Character: Richard Warren
Recap: Richard Warren is the founding father of Widow’s Bay. He forms a covenant for his people to survive and takes on the burden of that pact. After being buried alive for centuries, he offers a way to sacrifice himself to end the unholy pact. Then shows us self-preservation always prevails.
Emmy history: This is Linklater’s first nomination.
Christopher McDonald (Hacks)
Episode: “No New Tricks”
Character: Marty Ghilain
Recap: When Marty’s fiancée is arrested by the FBI for fraud moments before they say “I do,” he tries to salvage things with one final engagement.
Emmy history: This is McDonald’s second nomination; he was previously nominated for Hacks (2022).
Rob Reiner (The Bear)
Episode: “Tonnato”
Character: Albert
Recap: Ebraheim seeks help from Albert, a business advisor, about his sandwich operation. Albert recommends Ebra franchise the business. Albert outlines a new business plan and recommends he become part of the plan, as their expert for expansion. Ebra and the team discuss amongst themselves – and agree.
Emmy history: This is the late Reiner’s eighth nomination; he previously won two for All in the Family (1974 and ’78).
Connor Storrie (Saturday Night Live)
Episode: “Host: Connor Storrie”
Character: Various/Host
Recap: Connor Storrie hosts Saturday Night Live with musical guest Mumford & Sons on Feb. 28, 2026.
Emmy history: This is Storrie’s first nomination; his hit series Heated Rivalry was not eligible at the Primetime Emmys.
The four guest-acting Emmys will be handed out at the Creative Arts ceremonies, taking place Sept. 5–6 at the Peacock Theater.
