Decoding the Awards Landscape: Is 'Only Murders in the Building' an Oscar Contender?

Oct 31, 2025 by pinkandtrash.com 134 views

Decoding the Awards Landscape: Is ‘Only Murders in the Building’ an Oscar Contender?

The question, “Is Only Murders in the Building nominated for an Oscar?” frequently surfaces among fans of the critically acclaimed Hulu comedy-mystery series. Given its stellar cast, ingenious writing, and widespread popularity, it’s a natural assumption that such a high-quality production would be in the running for the entertainment industry’s most prestigious accolades. However, the short and unequivocal answer to whether Only Murders in the Building has been nominated for an Oscar is no, and it’s essential to understand why this is the case. The Academy Awards, universally known as the Oscars, are exclusively dedicated to honoring excellence in cinematic film achievements. They celebrate feature films released in theaters or, under specific conditions, via streaming with a qualifying theatrical run. Only Murders in the Building, despite its cinematic quality and star power, is fundamentally a television series—an episodic program designed for streaming consumption on Hulu. This fundamental distinction between film and television eligibility is often a point of confusion for viewers, especially as the lines between movies and TV shows continue to blur in the streaming era. While the series has garnered immense critical acclaim and a slew of nominations and wins from other major award bodies, its format inherently places it outside the purview of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. This article will delve into the specific criteria that govern the Oscars, clarify why Only Murders in the Building does not qualify, and illuminate the numerous, well-deserved awards it has received, firmly establishing its place as a celebrated gem in the television landscape. Understanding these distinctions helps appreciate the unique ecosystems of film and television awards and where shows like this brilliant mystery series find their true recognition.

The Fundamental Distinction: Film vs. Television Awards

The fundamental distinction between film and television awards lies at the heart of why Only Murders in the Building is not nominated for an Oscar. The Academy Awards, or Oscars, have a long-standing tradition of recognizing excellence solely in feature films. Established in 1929, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) created these awards to celebrate cinematic artistry, encompassing categories from Best Picture and Best Director to Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay—all specifically for movies released in a theatrical format or meeting stringent theatrical qualifying runs. For a production to even be considered, it must meet specific criteria, including a minimum theatrical run in Los Angeles County, a certain length, and adherence to release windows. This framework ensures that the Oscars remain dedicated to the art form of filmmaking, as opposed to episodic storytelling. Only Murders in the Building, despite its high production values and A-list talent, is unequivocally an episodic television series. It’s designed to be consumed in multiple installments over a season, with each episode contributing to a broader narrative arc, much like a novel serialized over several chapters. This format is the domain of television awards, most notably the Primetime Emmy Awards, which are administered by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. The Emmys were specifically created to honor outstanding achievements in American prime time television programming, covering a vast array of genres, formats, and technical categories unique to the medium. Shows like Only Murders in the Building fit perfectly within the Emmy’s criteria, celebrating everything from Outstanding Comedy Series to individual achievements in acting, writing, and directing for television. The confusion often arises because the caliber of talent involved—legends like Steve Martin and Martin Short, alongside powerhouse Selena Gomez—often crosses between film and television. Moreover, the rise of streaming platforms has blurred the lines between what constitutes a “movie” and a “TV show,” with some limited series occasionally undergoing theatrical releases that might make them technically eligible for film awards, though this is rare and not the standard for a multi-season series like OMITB. However, for Only Murders in the Building, its very structure as a serialized narrative, released episodically on Hulu, firmly plants it in the television camp. Therefore, while fans might wish to see it recognized on the grand Oscar stage, its journey for accolades rightly takes it through the prestigious gates of the Emmys, Golden Globes, and other television-specific award ceremonies, where its brilliance is appropriately celebrated. This clear separation preserves the distinct artistic integrity of both cinematic storytelling and episodic television, ensuring each medium has its dedicated platform for recognition.

Where ‘Only Murders in the Building’ Truly Shines: Emmy Dominance and Other Accolades

While Only Murders in the Building is not nominated for an Oscar, its trophy cabinet is far from empty, boasting a remarkable array of accolades from the most prestigious television awards. The series has consistently been a darling of critics and awards bodies alike, particularly shining at the Primetime Emmy Awards. This recognition underscores its significant impact and quality within the medium it was created for. Far from being overlooked, Only Murders in the Building has been celebrated for its masterful blend of comedy, mystery, and heartfelt character development, proving its excellence where it truly counts: the television awards circuit. The cast’s chemistry, the sharp writing, the intricate plotlines, and the nostalgic yet fresh aesthetic have all contributed to its formidable presence during awards season.

A Stellar Performance at the Primetime Emmy Awards

Only Murders in the Building’s performance at the Primetime Emmy Awards has been nothing short of stellar, accumulating an impressive number of nominations and significant wins across its seasons. For a show that launched with such immediate critical and audience acclaim, its journey through the Emmys has validated its standing as one of television’s current masterpieces. The series immediately captivated audiences with its unique premise and the unparalleled comedic timing of its lead trio, Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez. This critical adoration quickly translated into widespread industry recognition. In its inaugural season alone, the show garnered an astounding 17 Primetime Emmy Award nominations. These nominations spanned a variety of categories, highlighting the depth of its quality. Key nods included Outstanding Comedy Series, a testament to its compelling narrative and impeccable comedic execution. Steve Martin and Martin Short both received nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, recognizing their masterful performances that anchored the show with both humor and emotional depth. The writing team also received significant acclaim, with nominations for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series, a nod to the intricate plotting and witty dialogue that define the show’s unique charm. Furthermore, the show was honored in several technical and creative arts categories, securing wins for Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Program (Half-Hour), which perfectly captures the quirky, historic feel of the Arconia building, and Outstanding Main Title Design, an often-overlooked but crucial element that sets the tone for each episode. Beyond its technical achievements, the nominations for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series further cemented its reputation for meticulous storytelling and visual flair. This widespread recognition across acting, writing, directing, and technical categories underscores the comprehensive excellence of the series, demonstrating that every facet of its production contributes to its overall brilliance. The Emmy nominations are not merely about participation; they signify the highest echelon of achievement in television, and Only Murders in the Building has repeatedly proven itself to be a dominant force in this arena, solidifying its status as a critical darling and a significant contender in the competitive landscape of television comedy.

For its subsequent seasons, the series continued its strong showing at the Emmys, demonstrating sustained excellence. The second season, which delved deeper into the Arconia’s mysteries and character backstories, once again secured nominations for Outstanding Comedy Series, confirming its consistent quality. Both Steve Martin and Martin Short continued to receive recognition for their comedic prowess, earning further nominations in the lead acting categories. Their performances are often cited as a masterclass in comedic synergy, blending seasoned timing with genuine warmth and vulnerability. Selena Gomez’s portrayal of Mabel Mora also continued to draw praise, solidifying her role as a vital component of the trio’s dynamic and the show’s appeal. The show’s ability to maintain its high standards across multiple seasons is a difficult feat in television, yet Only Murders in the Building has managed to do so with apparent ease, evolving its mystery while keeping its core comedic heart intact. The continued recognition in writing and directing categories further emphasizes the strong creative vision guiding the series. Even in the competitive landscape of streaming television, where new acclaimed shows emerge constantly, Only Murders in the Building has maintained its status as an Emmy favorite. Its wins and nominations across various categories are not just a nod to individual talent but a comprehensive acknowledgment of a truly outstanding ensemble effort that brings a unique and delightful narrative to life. This consistent Emmy validation solidifies its position as a standout comedy series, beloved by both critics and audiences, and a benchmark for quality in the contemporary television era. The sheer volume and prestige of its Emmy nominations and wins serve as a powerful counter-narrative to any question of its recognition, clearly showing where its true awards success lies.

Golden Globe, SAG, and Critics’ Choice Recognition

Beyond its impressive Emmy haul, Only Murders in the Building has also been a prominent fixture at other major television and ensemble awards, including the Golden Globe Awards, the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, and the Critics’ Choice Television Awards. These accolades provide further irrefutable evidence of the series’ broad appeal and critical acclaim, showcasing its consistent excellence across different facets of the industry. The Golden Globe Awards, presented by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA), celebrate excellence in both American and international film and television. Here, Only Murders in the Building has garnered significant attention, receiving nominations for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy. This category is highly coveted, pitting the show against other top-tier comedic dramas and sitcoms. The lead actors, Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, have also earned individual nominations for their captivating performances, underscoring their collective and individual contributions to the show’s charm and success. The Globes’ recognition is particularly valuable as it reflects the opinions of international journalists, adding another layer of global acclaim to the series’ growing list of honors. Winning or even being nominated for a Golden Globe often provides a significant boost in visibility and prestige, further cementing a show’s status in the competitive entertainment landscape. The show’s consistent presence at the Globes highlights its consistent quality across multiple seasons, demonstrating its enduring appeal and impact on a diverse group of critics and industry observers.

The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards are another crucial benchmark for Only Murders in the Building’s success, particularly because these awards are voted on by actors themselves. This makes SAG nominations and wins especially meaningful, as they represent peer recognition—a profound endorsement from within the acting community. The series has received nominations for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series, one of the most prestigious categories for a show like OMITB. This nomination specifically celebrates the incredible chemistry and synergistic performances of its entire cast, acknowledging that the show’s magic is a collective effort. The ensemble nomination recognizes not just the lead trio but also the extensive supporting cast who bring the quirky residents of the Arconia and the broader New York setting to life. Additionally, Steve Martin and Martin Short have frequently been nominated in the individual categories for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series, reflecting their iconic comedic partnership and individual brilliance. The SAG Awards are a strong indicator of a show’s acting prowess and its ability to create believable, engaging characters that resonate with fellow performers. The fact that Only Murders in the Building has repeatedly been recognized by its peers speaks volumes about the quality of its acting and the palpable bond between its stars. This peer affirmation is a unique form of praise that distinguishes the SAG Awards from other industry accolades, making the show’s presence there all the more significant. The show’s ability to consistently deliver performances that captivate and entertain actors themselves is a testament to its high standards of casting and direction, ensuring that every character, no matter how small, contributes meaningfully to the overall narrative and comedic tapestry.

Finally, the Critics’ Choice Television Awards further validate Only Murders in the Building’s critical standing. These awards are chosen by a large group of television critics and journalists, making them a significant barometer of how industry experts perceive the quality and impact of television programming. The series has been nominated for and often won categories such as Best Comedy Series and individual acting honors. The Critics’ Choice Awards are known for often predicting other major awards and for highlighting shows that push boundaries or excel in innovative ways. Only Murders in the Building’s consistent presence here underscores its innovative approach to the comedy-mystery genre, its sharp writing, and its stellar performances. The show’s unique blend of humor, genuine emotion, and compelling mystery has resonated deeply with critics, who praise its ability to be both laugh-out-loud funny and genuinely heartwarming, all while unraveling an intriguing whodunit. These various nominations and wins from the Golden Globes, SAG Awards, and Critics’ Choice Television Awards, alongside its Emmy success, paint a comprehensive picture of Only Murders in the Building’s widespread and well-deserved recognition within the television industry. They unequivocally demonstrate that while an Oscar nomination is out of its scope due to eligibility rules, the show is celebrated and revered in the arenas where it truly belongs, solidifying its status as a contemporary television masterpiece.

The Enduring Appeal of ‘Only Murders in the Building’ Beyond Trophies

The enduring appeal of Only Murders in the Building extends far beyond its impressive collection of nominations and awards. While critical acclaim is certainly a significant marker of its quality, the show’s true triumph lies in its profound cultural impact, its unique blend of genres, and its ability to captivate a multi-generational audience. The series has not just won trophies; it has won hearts and minds, establishing itself as a benchmark for clever, engaging television. At its core, the show offers a refreshing take on the murder-mystery genre, infusing it with a witty, character-driven comedy that feels both classic and contemporary. This genre-bending approach is one of its most compelling attributes. Instead of relying solely on dark tones often associated with true crime, OMITB embraces humor, warmth, and a touch of the absurd, creating a viewing experience that is both thrilling and comforting. The mystery itself is always well-crafted, full of twists and turns that keep viewers guessing, but it’s the journey with the characters that truly resonates. The show successfully balances suspense with genuine laugh-out-loud moments, a feat that is incredibly difficult to achieve without one element overshadowing the other. This delicate balance ensures that the series appeals to a wide demographic, drawing in fans of classic whodunits, character-driven comedies, and even those new to the true-crime podcast phenomenon it so cleverly parodies.

Central to this enduring appeal is the intergenerational cast, a masterstroke of casting that brings together three distinct but equally beloved personalities. Steve Martin and Martin Short, legends of comedy with decades of experience, bring their signature wit, impeccable timing, and a deep well of comedic history to their roles. Their onscreen chemistry is palpable, a result of a long-standing friendship that translates into effortless banter and genuine affection between their characters, Charles Haden-Savage and Oliver Putnam. Their performances are not just comedic; they imbue their characters with vulnerability, longing, and the subtle melancholy of aging, making them incredibly relatable. Complementing this seasoned duo is Selena Gomez, who portrays Mabel Mora, a character from a younger generation. Gomez masterfully grounds the trio, bringing a sardonic wit, a contemporary sensibility, and an emotional depth that rounds out the group. Her performance is consistently praised for its understated strength and her ability to hold her own against two comedic giants. The dynamic between these three—the grumpy washed-up actor, the flamboyant struggling director, and the mysterious, artistic millennial—is the heartbeat of the show. It explores themes of friendship, loneliness, the search for purpose, and the unexpected connections that can form across age gaps. This unique intergenerational appeal makes the show accessible and enjoyable for viewers of all ages, allowing families to watch and discuss it together. The relatability of their individual struggles and their collective quest for connection amidst the chaos of a murder mystery truly elevates the show beyond mere entertainment.

Furthermore, the show’s smart writing and distinctive aesthetic contribute significantly to its lasting popularity. The scripts are meticulously crafted, weaving together intricate plotlines with sharp dialogue, clever callbacks, and genuine character development. The mysteries are not just about who committed the crime, but also about the secrets people keep, the hidden lives within a seemingly ordinary apartment building, and the complexities of human nature. The setting of the Arconia, a lavish, old-world apartment building in New York City, becomes a character in itself, full of hidden passages, eccentric residents, and a rich history that adds to the show’s charm. The production design and cinematography create a visually rich experience, blending a classic, almost Wes Anderson-esque, aesthetic with modern storytelling techniques. This visual flair, combined with a memorable theme song and clever use of true-crime podcast tropes, creates a distinct and immersive world that viewers love to revisit. Only Murders in the Building also tapped into the widespread fascination with true crime podcasts, cleverly satirizing the genre while simultaneously embracing its appeal. The podcast within the show serves as a narrative device and a meta-commentary on our collective obsession with solving mysteries. This topical relevance, combined with timeless themes of human connection and the universal desire for belonging, ensures the show remains fresh and engaging. Its success isn’t just a fleeting moment; it’s a testament to its well-executed premise, exceptional talent, and the thoughtful creation of a narrative world that resonates deeply with a diverse audience. This profound connection with viewers, more than any trophy, underscores its status as a truly beloved and impactful piece of television. Its ability to create a shared cultural experience, sparking discussions and delighting fans worldwide, solidifies its position as a standout series that will be remembered long after its final episode.

Navigating the Evolving Awards Ecosystem for Streaming Content

Navigating the evolving awards ecosystem for streaming content presents a fascinating, albeit sometimes confusing, landscape for both creators and audiences, particularly when considering productions like Only Murders in the Building. While the traditional lines between film and television awards, such as the Oscars and the Emmys, have historically been clear, the advent of streaming services has significantly blurred these boundaries. Platforms like Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV+ now produce content with budgets and cinematic scope that rival major studio films, featuring A-list actors, directors, and writers who frequently cross between film and TV projects. This blurring often leads to questions like, “Is Only Murders in the Building nominated for an Oscar?” because the sheer quality and star power of streaming series now often feel on par with, or even exceed, what traditionally constitutes a feature film. However, despite these evolving production standards, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has largely maintained its distinct focus on cinematic releases. Its eligibility criteria are specifically tailored for films, requiring a theatrical release of a certain length within a qualifying market. This commitment to traditional film exhibition helps preserve the unique identity of the Oscars as the pinnacle of cinematic achievement, separate from the episodic nature of television. While the Academy has adapted to acknowledge streaming films that receive a qualifying theatrical run (a notable example being Netflix’s Roma or The Irishman), this concession is typically for standalone movies, not for multi-season episodic series designed for continuous home viewing.

For an episodic series like Only Murders in the Building, which is inherently structured for multi-part storytelling and designed to be consumed on a streaming platform, the path to awards recognition is firmly routed through the television award bodies. The Primetime Emmy Awards, for instance, have seen their prestige and viewership grow exponentially alongside the rise of streaming content. The Television Academy has actively embraced and adapted to the streaming era, creating new categories and expanding existing ones to appropriately recognize the vast diversity and high quality of shows now available. This includes limited series, anthologies, and ongoing comedies and dramas, ensuring that every facet of television excellence, from performance to technical achievement, is acknowledged. The Emmys now serve as the primary and most significant platform for shows like Only Murders in the Building to receive their due. Similarly, other prominent awards, such as the Golden Globe Awards and the Screen Actors Guild Awards, have also adjusted their television categories to fully encompass the breadth and depth of streaming content. These bodies recognize that streaming has not only changed how audiences consume content but has also fostered a golden age of television, characterized by innovative storytelling and cinematic production values. The recognition from these awards is paramount for a series’ critical and commercial success within the television landscape.

Looking ahead, the future of TV awards and the broader awards ecosystem might continue to evolve, though a complete merger of film and television accolades seems unlikely in the near term. There’s ongoing debate within the industry about whether new categories or even new awards bodies might emerge to specifically address the unique hybrid forms of storytelling that streaming enables, such as very long-form limited series that feel like extended movies. However, for now, the established separation largely holds. The success of Only Murders in the Building is, therefore, appropriately defined by its strong performance in its correct award categories. Its multiple nominations and wins at the Emmys, Golden Globes, and SAG Awards are not merely consolation prizes; they are genuine and high-profile acknowledgments of its brilliance within the television medium. These awards celebrate its exceptional writing, direction, acting, and overall production quality as a television series. Understanding this distinction is crucial for appreciating how industry awards bodies function and how they continue to adapt to a rapidly changing media landscape. Ultimately, Only Murders in the Building’s recognition underscores the fact that while the Academy Awards maintain their focus on film, the television industry has robust and prestigious mechanisms in place to celebrate its own masterpieces, ensuring that shows of its caliber receive the visibility and honor they so richly deserve.

In conclusion, while the question “Is Only Murders in the Building nominated for an Oscar?” stems from a genuine appreciation for its quality, the answer firmly illustrates the enduring, albeit sometimes blurry, division between film and television awards. The Academy Awards are reserved for cinema, a realm where this delightful episodic series simply does not fit. However, its exclusion from the Oscars does not diminish its profound success or critical acclaim. Instead, Only Murders in the Building has rightly garnered a plethora of nominations and wins from prestigious television-focused awards bodies, including numerous Primetime Emmy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and Screen Actors Guild Awards. These accolades celebrate its unique blend of comedy and mystery, its impeccable writing, and the unforgettable performances by its intergenerational cast, firmly establishing its place as one of the most beloved and critically lauded shows on television. The enduring appeal of Only Murders in the Building lies in its ability to consistently deliver engaging storytelling and heartwarming character dynamics, proving that its true legacy is defined by its masterful execution within the television landscape, rather than any pursuit of a film award.