Emmy Snubs: 9 Incredible TV Shows That Never Won the Big Award

1. "The Wire" (2002-2008)

First on the list, we have "The Wire." Yes, that's right, you heard me correctly. This slice-of-life series set in the gritty streets of Baltimore that transformed into one of television's most beloved dramas never took home the Emmy gold and was nominated only twice. Exploring themes of urban life, institutional dysfunction, and the socio-economic impact of drugs on society, "The Wire" offered a rare, uncompromising look at the inner workings of a city on the brink. Creator David Simon masterfully weaved multiple storylines together, creating a rich tapestry of character-driven narratives that made "The Wire" a critic's darling, but not the Emmy's, apparently. Its grim realism might've been too much for the sunny-side-up Television Academy.

2. "Buffy the Vampire Slayer " (1997-2003)

In the era where "Friends" and "The West Wing" were dominating the Emmys, "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" was tackling demons, literal and metaphorical, on the small screen. Despite its campy title, "Buffy" combined horror, drama, and comedy to create an engaging series that tackled heavy themes like death, identity, and the tumultuous journey of growing up. All this wrapped up with a delicious layer of 90s nostalgia. Yet, the only Emmy it ever won was for Outstanding Makeup. Hard to believe, right?

3. "Sons of Anarchy" (2008-2014)

Motorcycle clubs, corruption, and Shakespearean tragedy, oh my! "Sons of Anarchy" took viewers on a wild ride through the life of outlaw motorcycle club, SAMCRO. The series revolved around Jax Teller, played with simmering intensity by Charlie Hunnam, as he grappled with his loyalty to his outlaw motorcycle family and his growing unease with their actions. The Shakespearean overtones, emotional heft, and adrenaline-pumping action made it an instant hit with viewers. Sadly, the Emmys didn't share this sentiment. They preferred to keep the outlaw motorcycle club on the outskirts of awards season.

4. "Community " (2009-2015)

Who knew a group of misfits at a community college could make for such riveting television? "Community" is a comedic masterpiece that combines slapstick humor with meta-commentary and absurd storylines, making it a unique standout in the world of sitcoms. The series boasts a stunning 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, and the episode "Remedial Chaos Theory" is often hailed as one of the greatest episodes of television, ever. But Emmy recognition? The show got as much of that as its character Abed got normalcy.

5. "Battlestar Galactica" (2004-2009)

Emmys might have a complex relationship with the sci-fi genre, but "Battlestar Galactica" is a show that deserved to break the pattern. This riveting space drama reimagined the 1978 series into a profound commentary on politics, spirituality, and the very essence of humanity. Despite battles with advanced robotic Cylons and daring spaceship escapades, the series centered on the core struggles of its complex, morally ambiguous characters. Perhaps the Television Academy couldn't see past the spaceships and robots to the deep, human narrative pulsating at the heart of the series.

6. "The Leftovers" (2014-2017)

When 2% of the world's population suddenly disappears without a trace, the remaining 98% are left grappling with the inexplicable loss. That's the premise of "The Leftovers," a gripping series that explores grief, loss, and the human propensity for meaning-making in a world turned upside down. It's rich with metaphysical questions, character studies, and a hauntingly beautiful score that sticks with you. Despite boasting a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes for its third season, the Emmys left "The Leftovers" on the side of their awards plate.

7. "Parks and Recreation " (2009-2015)

Nestled in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana, "Parks and Recreation" gave us the relentlessly optimistic and waffle-loving government official Leslie Knope, played to perfection by Amy Poehler. It's a comedy that hits the sweet spot between satirical humor and heartfelt moments. While it's got a star-studded cast and has enjoyed critical acclaim for its witty writing and charming performances, an Emmy win remained as elusive as the fictional Pawnee's respect for its public servants.

8. "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" (2005-present)

For a show that's been making audiences laugh for over a decade, "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" hasn't managed to coax a chuckle out of the Emmy voters, and it's a shame, really. Centered around a group of morally repugnant friends running an unsuccessful Irish bar, this dark comedy pushes the envelope of conventional TV humor. Despite its audacious storylines and the comedic chemistry of its ensemble cast, the series remains an Emmy outsider, sometimes making the fans of the series wonder, just what were the Emmys thinking.

9. "Veronica Mars" (2004-2007, 2019)

With a smart, tenacious teen detective at its helm, this show deftly blends noir, mystery, and teen drama. While the series weaves an intricate plot, its real strength lies in its well-developed characters and the stellar performance by Kristen Bell as the titular Veronica Mars. Despite the show's cult status and critical acclaim, the Emmy's never quite picked up on the clues pointing to its worthiness: "Veronica Mars" never even got nominated.