Movies

Commentary: Jeff Hiller of ‘Somebody Somewhere’ on his surprise Emmy nomination: ‘I was truly shocked’

BBG News

Nominate Jeff Hiller for his first-ever Emmy award in the category of Supporting Actor in a Comedy, which will undoubtedly be one of 2025’s major surprises. His exceptional performance as Joel, Bridget Everett’s best friend on “Somebody Somewhere,” has been widely praised as one of the year’s top acting feats. However, due to the comedy’s subtle nuances and diverse cast, it was considered an underdog compared to competitors from “The Bear,” “Only Murders in the Building,” and “Abbott Elementary.

This award-winning television show, wrapping up its third season this year, focused on a diverse band of individuals, both gay and straight, as they journeyed through the complexities of friendship, religion, and self-discovery in a quaint, rural Kansas setting. Similar to Hiller, Joel also identifies as gay and has a strong background within the Christian faith.

When the Television Academy unveiled its list of nominees on Tuesday morning, Hiller wasn’t exactly prepared to find his name listed alongside Harrison Ford (“Shrinking”), Ebon Moss-Bachrach (“The Bear”) and Colman Domingo (“The Four Seasons.”). Shortly after learning about his nomination, we had a chat with him for this article. The conversation has been condensed and clarified for better understanding.

Were you eagerly anticipating the announcements this morning, or were you more of the mindset that it wouldn’t materialize, as I was?

I must tell you, without any sort of posturing or false humility, this is a surprise.

In Season 3, I mentioned to my husband that the Emmy nominations were approaching and someone might say that “Somebody Somewhere” was overlooked. I had already moved on from that thought. However, when I spoke with my sister, I was surprised to learn that my agent had been calling me. Initially, I had forgotten about it, but then I realized that the casting for the Fox pilot’s recurring role might be underway. It was quite a shock to remember that situation. To be honest, I really was taken aback by the news.

Awards

As a devoted cinephile, I’m diving deep into this year’s Emmy nominations, dissecting the contenders, predicting the winners, and sharing my thoughts on who truly deserves recognition. Glenn Whipp, our esteemed awards columnist, has got it all covered, so let’s dive in together to see who made the cut!

It’s quite remarkable to gain attention for a unique and exceptional series like “Somebody Somewhere” and a character similar to Joel, as there’s simply no other program or persona quite like them on TV.

Through my experience in an acting course aimed at landing a lead role on television, which came about fifteen years into my career, I learned that resembling the character is crucial for getting the part. However, I initially felt discouraged because I didn’t see many characters like myself being written.

allow me to express my sincere appreciation for the opportunity I’ve been given with this role. Bridget, along with co-creators Hannah Bos and Paul Thureen, are truly remarkable for creating a show unlike any other, and for giving me the chance to portray such a richly complex character who is gay and also part of the church. This isn’t something that comes along every day, and it requires careful crafting and development to bring a character like this to life. I feel incredibly fortunate that they wrote such a role, and that I got to bring it to fruition, rather than having Michael Urie in the part – someone I would have chosen myself for the role.

Do you miss Joel?

Certainly!

Indeed, it’s been more than a year since we wrapped up Season 3, and I must admit, I miss the camaraderie of the crew and the joy of embodying that character. It might sound cliché or trite, but the sentiments were genuine when they were expressed. After all, the bond we forged on set was truly special.

Television

The actor expresses a sense of longing regarding the last installment of the HBO series he shares with Bridget Everett, yet remains thankful that it even made it to air.

And where are you right now?

Currently, I’m located at Gate 95 in LaGuardia Airport. I possess a credit card that charges me quite a hefty fee, but it grants me access to lounges. Unfortunately, the line for the lounge is excessively long right now, so I’m biding my time here at the gate until 3:40, as our flight has been delayed.

You were just nominated for an Emmy! Don’t they know who you are?

They have made it very clear they do not know who I am.

So what’s next?

I’m thrilled just to attend that [Emmy] event. I’ve never had the chance to go to a gathering quite like this one before. I plan on dressing up quite flamboyantly. It promises to be a fantastic experience.

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2025-07-15 22:31

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