From High Potential to Chicago Fire: 6 Network TV Shows that We Think Deserve to Win an Emmy in 2026

ABC’s comedy-drama is filled with crime investigation and is based on the French series High Intellectual Potential. Critically acclaimed lead performances and the show's distinct genre-blending format made it a popular choice among fans. Kaitlin Olson’s lead performance has received wide appreciation from the viewers. The series blends crime-solving, humor, and character-driven storytelling in a way that helped it become one of ABC's biggest breakout hits.

The streamer describes The Pitt as “A realistic examination of the challenges facing healthcare workers in America as seen through the lens of the frontline heroes working in a modern-day hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,” and it shows exactly that. The medical drama features Noah Wyle, Shawn Hatosy, Katherine LaNasa, Taylor Dearden, Isa Briones, Patrick Ball, and more in lead roles. Its realistic depiction of American hospitals takes viewers on the edge, and that’s why it’s been receiving praise from fans and critics alike. Noah Wyle’s Dr. Michael Robinavitch, aka Robby, has received massive appreciation from fans for his intense role.

The NBC show Chicago Fire has been running for over a decade and has already released over 300 episodes. Viewers truly enjoy high-stakes yet realistic rescue operations featured on the show. Additionally, the emotionally driven relationship drama makes the firefighters’ personal lives even more enjoyable. Additionally, the show's excellent stunt coordination makes it even more exciting to stream, especially since cast members often opt to perform their stunts themselves. 

Another CBS show, Elsbeth, features Elsbeth Tascioni (played by Carrie Preston). The American police procedural comedy-drama TV show is a spinoff of The Good Wife and The Good Fight. With a masterful, energetic lead role paired with her quirky personality and stellar guest stars, the TV show surely deserves an Emmy in 2026. Additional cast members include Ben Levi Ross, Carra Patterson, Wendell Pierce, Michael Emerson, Patti LuPone, and more.

CBS’s American legal drama series features Emmy and Academy Award winner Kathy Bates as Madeline Matlock, aka Matty, in the lead. She is a brilliant lawyer described as, “She uses her unassuming demeanor and wily tactics to win cases and expose corruption from within.” Along with her, lead cast members Leah Lewis, Jason Ritter, David Del Rio, Henry Haber, Yael Grobglas, and more have also delivered outstanding performances. Kathy’s Matty has received high praise for her dual-identity performances.

Although its run lasted only one season, Stumble quickly gained attention for its sharp comedy and energetic cast. The NBC show features Jenn Lyon in the lead, along with Georgie Murphy, Taran Killam, Ryan Pinkston, Anissa Borrego, Jarrett Austin Brown, and more. The mockumentary sitcom was created by Jeff Astrof and Liz Astrof. The storyline revolves around a successful competitive cheerleading coach and her cheerleading squad. Her world turned upside down after she was fired from her job as a coach. Viewers praised the cast members’ brilliant performances and their chemistry.