Tv

Best supporting actors in drama series

Explore the most outstanding supporting actors who have shone in drama series, leaving an indelible mark with their performances. This list celebrates those talents who, though not always in the lead role, have been fundamental to the success and depth of their productions. From winners of prestigious awards like the Emmys and Golden Globes to rising stars, discover the performers who have elevated the standard of television. Their complex and nuanced portrayals have captured the attention of critics and audiences alike, solidifying their status as essential figures in today's television landscape.

354100% verified
  1. 1

    Rufus Sewell (in The Diplomat)

    354 Global Votes
    • Emmy-worthy work in The Diplomat

      (+1)

    Rufus Sewell's portrayal of Hal Wyler in 'The Diplomat' stands out for its complexity and charisma, bringing an essential dynamic to the series. His ability to embody a multi-layered character, who is both charming and manipulative, significantly elevates the dramatic quality of the narrative.

  2. 2

    Tramell Tillman (in Severance)

    0 Global Votes
    • Won Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series at Critics Choice Awards

      (+3)

    Tramell Tillman delivers a captivating performance as Seth Milchick in 'Severance', bringing a unique blend of unsettling charm and authority. His ability to convey the character's complexity through subtle gestures and facial expressions is exceptional, earning him the 2025 Emmy and Critics Choice Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

  3. 3

    Matthew Macfadyen (in Succession)

    0 Global Votes
    • Won multiple Emmy Awards for Supporting Actor

      (+2)

    Matthew Macfadyen delivers a masterful performance as Tom Wambsgans in 'Succession', capturing the character's complexity and evolution with exceptional depth. His acting has been consistently praised by critics, earning him multiple accolades, including two Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

  4. 4

    Tadanobu Asano (in Shōgun)

    0 Global Votes
    • Portrayal of Lord Kashigi Yabushige is memorable

      (+4)

    Tadanobu Asano's portrayal of Kashigi Yabushige in 'Shōgun' earned him the Best Supporting Male Actor – Television award at the 82nd Annual Golden Globes in 2025. His performance captured the character's complexity and charisma, resonating deeply with critics and audiences alike.

  5. 5

    Zach Cherry (in Severance)

    0 Global Votes
    • Nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

    Zach Cherry's portrayal of Dylan George in "Severance" earned him an Emmy nomination in 2025 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. His performance brings a unique blend of humor, vulnerability, and complexity to the character, making him an emotional and narrative anchor of the show. Cherry captures the essence of a man divided between two realities, showcasing an acting depth that resonates with audiences and critics alike.

  6. All the rankings you can imagine

    Thousands of verified votes to discover the best. Your vote here counts

  7. 6

    Jason Isaacs (in The White Lotus)

    0 Global Votes
    • Nominated for Primetime Emmy Award

      (+2)

    Jason Isaacs delivers a compelling performance in the third season of 'The White Lotus', standing out for his ability to bring a complex and multifaceted character to life. His acting provides a blend of dark humor and vulnerability, enriching the series' dynamics and resonating deeply with audiences and critics. His 2025 Emmy nomination highlights the impact and quality of his work in the acclaimed drama series.

  8. 7

    Sam Rockwell (in The White Lotus)

    0 Global Votes
    • Nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

    Sam Rockwell's portrayal of Frank in 'The White Lotus' (2025) was critically acclaimed for its depth and humor, highlighted by a memorable monologue that became a season highlight. His performance showcased an exceptional ability to blend drama and comedy, earning him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

  9. 8

    Billy Crudup (in The Morning Show) (2025)

    0 Global Votes
    • Won Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

      (+1)

    Billy Crudup won the 2024 Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role as Cory Ellison in "The Morning Show". His performance stands out for the complexity and charisma he brings to the character, captivating both critics and audiences. Crudup has been praised for his ability to bring a multifaceted character to life, combining humor, vulnerability, and a magnetic screen presence.

  10. 9

    Tobias Menzies (in The Crown)

    0 Global Votes
    • Wins Emmy for Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

      (+1)

    Tobias Menzies' portrayal of Prince Philip in 'The Crown' was recognized with the Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 2021. His performance delivered a nuanced and compelling depiction of the Duke of Edinburgh, highlighting the character's complexity and his impact on the series' narrative. Menzies brought an emotional depth and consistent presence that resonated with critics and audiences alike.

  11. 10

    Ke Huy Quan (in Loki)

    0 Global Votes
    • Received a Critics' Choice Television Award nomination

      (+2)

    Ke Huy Quan delivers an electrifying and charming performance as Ouroboros in Loki Season 2, bringing unique warmth and charisma to the character. His portrayal of the TVA engineer was pivotal to the plot's development, earning him widespread audience and critical acclaim.

  12. 11

    Owen Cooper (Adolescence)

    0 Global Votes
    • Gained international recognition for debut role

      (+4)

    Owen Cooper delivered a powerful performance as Jamie Miller in "Adolescence", capturing the complexity of a teenage murder suspect with remarkable depth. His acting was recognized with the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series in 2025, a historic achievement as he became the youngest male winner of this award.