Kristen Bell Earns Her First-Ever Emmy Nomination for Netflix’s ‘Nobody Wants This’
After years of standout performances and fan-favorite roles, Kristen Bell has finally received her first Emmy Award nomination — and it’s well deserved. The 44-year-old actress was recognized in the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series category at the upcoming 77th Emmy Awards, thanks to her performance in the hit Netflix romantic comedy, Nobody Wants This.
The nomination marks a milestone in Bell’s acclaimed career, which spans cult classics like Veronica Mars, voice work in Gossip Girl, and ensemble shows such as The Good Place and Heroes. Despite those successes, this is the first time Bell has been nominated for television’s top honor.
In Nobody Wants This, Bell plays Joanne, an agnostic woman who co-hosts a relationship podcast with her sister Morgan (played by Justine Lupe). The plot takes a heartfelt and humorous twist when Joanne unexpectedly falls in love with Noah, a charming rabbi portrayed by Bell’s real-life husband, Adam Brody. The 10-episode first season explores themes of faith, family, and personal growth — all wrapped in witty, emotional storytelling.
The show, created by Erin Foster, quickly became a favorite among critics and viewers alike for its sharp writing and layered performances. Its success has already earned it a Season 2 renewal, with the new episodes scheduled to premiere on October 23.
Bell finds herself in impressive company in this year’s Best Comedy Actress category. She is joined by Uzo Aduba (The Residence), Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary), Ayo Edebiri (The Bear), and Jean Smart (Hacks), each a powerhouse in their own right. The nominees were announced by Brenda Song, Harvey Guillén, and Television Academy Chair Cris Abrego during a live event Tuesday morning.
Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Bell and Brody teased that Season 2 of Nobody Wants This will continue to explore more than just romantic developments. “The world has been built out beautifully in a very grounded, realistic way,” Bell said. “When you fall in love, it’s just the two of you for a while — the rest of the world fades. But eventually, reality creeps in, and that’s where the real challenges begin.”
The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze, will air live on ABC on Sunday, September 14 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.
