Reality check: Look for a virtual repeat of last year in this hugely competitive category, with the possible exception of James Spader (because of
Boston Legal’s partial season) being ousted in favor of Kiefer Sutherland’s return. (All those near-death scenes for Jack Bauer make him a cinch). And there should be room as well for Michael Chiklis, who deserves to be recognized for
The Shield's blistering final season, and for Denis Leary, back in action after
Rescue Me’s year off. But who to cut? Hard to ignore
In Treatment’s soulful Gabriel Byrne or eternal underdogs Kyle Chandler (
Friday Night Lights) and Edward James Olmos (
Battlestar Galactica). This is a category that could expand to 10 without popping a sweat.
Matt’s Wish ListJon Hamm (
Mad Men)
Bryan Cranston (
Breaking Bad; an underdog, but hard to imagine last year’s winner being ignored, especially given that season 2 was even better)
Michael C. Hall (
Dexter)
Hugh Laurie (
House; so long overdue it’s not even funny)
Kiefer Sutherland (
24)
Michael Chiklis (
The Shield)
Just missed the cut: Denis Leary (
Rescue Me)
Long-shot runners-up: Kyle Chandler (
Friday Night Lights), Edward James Olmos (
Battlestar Galactica)
Which six actors make your list?