Emmy Predictions 2016: Outstanding Limited Series

Quick Hits

Last Year’s Winner: “Olive Kitteridge”
Was It an Upset? Nope
Still Eligible? Nope
Hot Streak: “American Horror Story” has earned a nomination in this category (or its similarly titled iterations) every year of its existence, but it’s never won. This was the first year it didn’t make the cut.
Fun Fact: In 2009 and 2010, there were only two nominees in this category, which lead for it to be merged with TV Movies from 2011 – 2013. Now, limited series are arguably the most in-demand storytelling medium on television.

We could spend some time talking about how “American Crime,” “Roots” and “The Night Manager” could win, but let’s be honest: This is a two-horse race. “The People v. O.J. Simpson” and “Fargo” are squaring off, which is fascinating on a number of levels. First, they’re both on the same network. Odds are FX will push both equally hard, since they shouldn’t be afraid of their competition. (Seriously, if one of the other three wins, it’s because “O.J.” and “Fargo” split the vote.) Yet “Fargo” has history on its side, as it won the mano-y-mano showdown with “True Detective” two years back, making it a pretty strong competitor simply by trumping the McConaissance.

That being sad, “The People v. O.J. Simpson” has been billed as the one to beat since it premiered. And now it’s wracked up the second most nominations of any program at the Emmys — only one shy of “Game of Thrones.” That’s a pretty impressive tally, especially with nods for John Travolta and David Schwimmer, neither of which were considered locks (or even favorites) heading into the nominations. Considering the topical content and impeccable execution, “O.J.” could be in line to steal “Fargo’s” crown.

Below are IndieWire TV Critic Ben Travers’ predictions for Outstanding Limited Series, which will be updated throughout the awards season. Make sure to keep checking IndieWire for all the latest buzz and highlights from the 2016 race, and read the rest of the predictions in all the categories, as well.

The Nominees:

“American Crime”
“Fargo”
“Roots”
“The Night Manager”
“The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story”

Will Win: “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story”
Could Win: “Fargo”
Should Win: “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story”

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