I love your column and the ...
Question: I love your column and the rational insight you provide. I have been blown away by
Gregory Itzin's performance on
24 — we've seen him swing from an indecisive wuss to an
I, Claudius-type schemer. His portrayal and mannerisms also remind me of an obsessed
Jimmy Stewart, like in
Vertigo. Do you think he has a shot at being nominated for an Emmy for best supporting actor? Though I'd love to see
Terry O'Quinn win this year, I wouldn't mind seeing credit given where it is due.
Answer: You and me both. (And loved the
I, Claudius reference. They don't make TV like
that anymore, though I was jazzed that HBO just made it official that Season 2 of
Rome is under way.) The deterrent to Gregory Itzin landing his well-deserved nomination is the strength of the drama field in general, as well as
24's inability up to now to land any acting nominations in the supporting categories, though many have deserved them. Given the media attention Itzin is now enjoying (again, deservedly), he has a shot. It doesn't hurt that he is known throughout Hollywood, being such a steadily employed and reliable character actor for years. This kind of career breakthrough is exactly what the Emmys should be rewarding, but it's not going to be easy to break through with so many ensemble dramas competing for slots.
