Every year, the Golden Globe Awards recognize outstanding talent in television, and 2018 was no exception. While many actors are repeat nominees, a handful of talented performers were still awaiting their first recognition from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. Among those hoping to secure their first-ever Golden Globe nominations were Game of Thrones star Kit Harington, The Good Doctor lead Freddie Highmore, Outlander fan favorite Sam Heughan, and others who had captivated audiences with their performances.
Kit Harington – Game of Thrones
For years, Kit Harington’s portrayal of Jon Snow on Game of Thrones was a defining force in the world of television. As the brooding, honorable hero of Westeros, Harington brought depth and intensity to his role. While the HBO epic had earned multiple Golden Globe nominations and wins—most notably for Peter Dinklage—Harington himself had yet to receive an individual nod. With Game of Thrones reaching its final chapters, 2018 was seen as a prime opportunity for Harington to finally break into the Golden Globes nominee list.
Freddie Highmore – The Good Doctor
Freddie Highmore had already established himself as a standout performer with his chilling performance as Norman Bates in Bates Motel, yet the Golden Globes had overlooked him throughout the show’s run. However, his next project, The Good Doctor, positioned him as a strong contender. In the ABC medical drama, Highmore portrayed Dr. Shaun Murphy, a brilliant surgeon with autism and savant syndrome. His sensitive, deeply emotional performance struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, making him a strong hopeful for his first Golden Globe nomination.
Sam Heughan – Outlander
Scottish actor Sam Heughan had gained worldwide recognition for his portrayal of Jamie Fraser in Outlander, the Starz historical drama that blended romance, time travel, and adventure. While his co-star Caitríona Balfe had already received multiple Golden Globe nominations, Heughan had yet to be recognized by the HFPA. His passionate and layered performance as the Highland warrior had earned him a dedicated fanbase, and many believed that 2018 could be the year he finally received the acknowledgment he deserved.
Other Notable Contenders
In addition to Harington, Highmore, and Heughan, several other TV actors were in the running for their first Golden Globe nominations in 2018:
- Mandy Moore – This Is Us: With This Is Us becoming one of television’s most talked-about dramas, Moore’s heartfelt performance as Rebecca Pearson had made her a serious contender for a Golden Globe nomination.
- Millie Bobby Brown – Stranger Things: At just 13 years old, Brown had already become a breakout star thanks to her role as Eleven in Netflix’s hit sci-fi series. Given the industry’s growing recognition of young talent, many predicted she could receive her first nomination.
The Impact of a Golden Globe Nomination
For actors, a Golden Globe nomination is more than just an honor—it’s a career milestone that can open doors to greater opportunities. For stars like Harington, Highmore, and Heughan, a nomination would not only validate their exceptional performances but also reinforce their standing in the industry.
While awards do not define talent, recognition from the Golden Globes can serve as a significant moment in an actor’s journey. As these stars continued to deliver outstanding performances, fans and critics alike eagerly awaited the announcement of the 2018 Golden Globe nominations, hoping to see their favorite actors finally receive the accolades they so richly deserved.
