Cristin Milioti Earns First Emmy Nomination for The Penguin Amidst 24 Emmy Nods for HBO’s Hit Series

Here’s to new beginnings for actor Cristin Milioti, who earned her first Emmy nomination for Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie at the 77th Emmy Awards for her role as Sofia Falcone in HBO’s The Penguin.

Though Milioti is no stranger to starring in acclaimed shows such as Modern Love, Made for Love, and Black Mirror—all of which received nominations—she admits to managing her nerves by “purposefully keeping” her phone at the bottom of her bag, unchecked, until the nominations ceremony had ended. In addition to Milioti’s recognition, The Penguin garnered an impressive 24 nominations, including Lead Actor for Colin Farrell, Limited or Anthology Series, Cinematography, Directing, Contemporary Hairstyling and Makeup, and Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup.

When asked about her reaction to the nomination, Milioti shared, “It was definitely that I can’t wait to have a big dessert as a treat later. I am so thrilled at the amount of nominations that The Penguin got.” She expressed pride not only for herself but also for the entire team: “I’m thrilled for our directors, my fellow actors, our writers, our hair and makeup team, the visual effects team, and the editors. This show took so many people to make what it is. You never know who’s going to get recognized, so I’m just deeply thrilled about the amount of recognition we got.”

Reflections on the Role and Emmy Nomination

In interviews, Milioti reflects on the physicality and complexity of playing Sofia Falcone. Although she has appeared in several highly regarded projects, including Black Mirror, it was The Penguin that brought her over the Emmy nomination threshold.

Milioti says, “I truly had a profound time making that show and playing Sofia. Being recognized for the show was lovely and validating, but the experience itself was deeply meaningful and worth it.”

Impact of Sofia Falcone’s Character

The discourse around Milioti’s portrayal of the nuanced villain Sofia Falcone has been widespread and influential. She explains how the role has affected her choices: “I’ve been spoiled by this show because I got to do so much with that role—things I’ve wanted to do for a long time. I’m seeking projects that offer a different tone but have the same level of passion and depth.”

Milioti attributes much of the character’s success to Lauren LeFranc’s extraordinary writing and the dedicated work of the show’s talented cast and crew. She adds, “What resonates about Sofia is that she doesn’t hold back. You understand her pain and watch her revenge play out on a grand scale, yet remain grounded in reality. She’s a villain you can root for.”

Memorable Scenes and Upcoming Projects

Among her favorite scenes are the dinner toast in Episode 4, the gas mask and gun sequence, and a touching moment with Sofia’s niece in a children’s home, highlighting the character’s complexity.

Looking ahead, Milioti is excited to start filming a new movie titled Buddy in Ohio, describing it as “very special, strange, and wonderful.”