Dream Emmy Ballot 2014: Outstanding Guest Actor and Actress in a Comedy Series

What's the key to a strong guest performance in a comedy, sometimes its merely about the 

laughs other times it has to do with their impact, maybe a key scene.  Over the years there have been a variety great guest performance in comedies that have had one or both make their short time on their series memorable.

Some of the funniest performances in both these categories over recent years have come from Arrested Development, there was Henry Winkler, Liza Minelli, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Charlize Theron, Scott Baio, the list goes on.  30 Rock was another show that packed a punch with their guest stars, many of whom were repeat offenders throughout the shows history, like John Hamm, Elaine Stritch, and Steve Buscemi to name a few.  This year Modern Family has started to join the ranks, with that recurring hilarious friend/co-worker like Elizabeth Banks, Nathan Lane, and Rob Riggle.  

Over the last decade or so many shows have blended drama with their comedy.  Ally McBeal was a quirky gal, at a quirky law firm, but she sure did have a lot of drama; she even saw therapist Tracey Ullman.  Desperate Housewives always seemed to have more drama, but their were always a ton of laughs.  There weren't a ton of laughs when Caroline Bixby held up a store, but she had a ton of impact.  In recent years, especially this year Louie and Girls fits within this mold.  Sarah Baker was funny in her episode of Louie, but it was her speech about fat girls that captivated people.  Girls June Squibb's scenes were both funny, and sad, but the woman knows how to sell.

Over the years comedy series have evolved, this year has a been a weaker year in these categories, but here are the dream nominees for these categories.

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series

Sarah Baker-Louie

Linda Cardelinni-New Girl

Eszter Ballnt-Louie 

Mimi Kennedy-Mom

June Squibb-Girls

Lauren Weedman-Looking

Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

Gary Cole-Veep

Scott Bakula-Looking

Brad Garrett-The Crazy Ones

James Earl Jones-The Big Bang Theory

Nathan Lane-Modern Family

Andrew Rannells-Girls