Awards Circuit | Variety Awards Circuit | Variety

'Widow’s Bay’ Has the Momentum, and Here's Why It Could Win Best Comedy; Also, “Tucci in Italy” Star Stanley Tucci on Why He Hasn’t Moved There

Aug 7, 2026 · 50m

Summary

Variety’s Award Circuit podcast features Gold Derby’s Deborah Burnbaum predicting *Widows of Bay* as the Emmy comedy upset over *Hacks*, while analyzing the limited series race and Creative Arts changes. Host Michael Schneider then interviews Stanley Tucci about his Emmy-nominated *Tucci in Italy*, his hosting evolution, and his upcoming UK season.

Topics discussed

Intro: Stanley Tucci and Emmy predictions Deborah Burnbaum joins to discuss Emmy momentum Willow's Bay vs. The Bear: Drama series race Jean Smart's historic potential and voting trends Noah Wyle, Vince Gilligan, and The Pitt's campaign Limited series race: Beef, DTF, and Love Story Half Man, Half Bots snub and Creative Arts controversy Emmy format changes and Mariska Hargitay hosting Proposal for simultaneous Emmy broadcasts Stanley Tucci on his career and 'Tucci in Italy' The complexity of Italian culture and food Underrated regions and the reality of living in Italy Interview techniques and building trust with subjects Tucci's growth as a host and admiration for artisans Tucci's early career and first Variety mention Karaoke, secret talents, and life advice
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