The Only Murders in the Building award highlights the cultural impact of the hit true crime comedy series. This recognition celebrates sharp writing, standout performances, and a devoted fanbase that keeps the show in conversation long after each season ends.
From critics' groups to fan-voted honors, the show's trophies reflect both mainstream appeal and niche acclaim. Below is a quick reference to the major wins and nominations that define its awards journey.
| Year | Award | Category | Nominee / Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Critics' Choice Television Awards | Best Comedy Series | Only Murders in the Building | Nominated |
| 2022 | Primetime Emmy Awards | Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series | Steve Martin | Nominated |
| 2022 | Primetime Emmy Awards | Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series | Martin Short | Nominated |
| 2022 | Primetime Emmy Awards | Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series | Selena Gomez | Nominated |
| 2023 | Golden Globe Awards | Best Actor – Television Series Musical or Comedy | Steve Martin | Nominated |
| 2023 | Golden Globe Awards | Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy | Martin Short | Nominated |
| 2023 | Screen Actors Guild Awards | Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series | Only Murders in the Building | Nominated |
| 2023 | Hollywood Critics Association TV Awards | Best Streaming Comedy Series | Only Murders in the Building | Won |
Character Portrayals and Award Recognition
Steve Martin's Pursuit of Relevance
Steve Martin's performance as a struggling actor reinvents his screen persona and draws consistent award attention. Critics praise his blend of nervous charm and deadpan timing, which has led to multiple nominations across comedy categories.
Martin Short's Dynamic Comic Energy
Martin Short brings flamboyant charisma to the trio, turning every scene into a showcase of vocal and physical comedy. His work has earned high-profile nods, including Golden Globe and Emmy recognition.
Selena Gomez's Grounded Supporting Turn
Selena Gomez adds warmth and subtle wit as a young woman rediscovering herself in the city. Her Emmy-nominated performance helped shift perceptions of her range beyond music and earlier teen roles.
Writing and Narrative Structure
The show's mock-true-crime format lets the cast riff on podcast tropes while sneaking in heartfelt commentary about aging and reinvention. This balance of satire and sincerity has impressed juries focused on smart storytelling in crowded comedy fields.
Each season builds a self-contained mystery that still deepens the trio's friendships. The writers layer callbacks and period details, giving award voters plenty of material to highlight for originality and emotional resonance.
Cultural Impact and Fan Reception
Only Murders in the Building award momentum extends beyond traditional ceremonies to social platforms and fan clubs. Conventions and podcast discussions keep the show visible, encouraging voters to consider its cross-generational appeal.
The series normalizes apartment living as a stage for high-stakes curiosity, turning a New York loft into a character itself. This setting has influenced how future ensemble mysteries frame community and surveillance in a gentrifying city.
Production Quality and Direction
Snappy editing and a retro-modern soundtrack help each episode feel like a premium podcast come to life. The score and montage sequences have drawn attention from guild voters who recognize inventive visual rhythm.
Costume and production design nail the blend of shabby-chic and aspiration, giving awards bodies clear visual cues to highlight in technical categories. This craftsmanship supports the narrative without upstaging the performances.
Legacy and Future Trajectory
The Only Murders in the Building award trajectory illustrates how a smart, character-driven mystery-comedy can carve out a distinct space in a crowded comedy landscape.
- Recognized for smart writing and charismatic ensemble chemistry across major award bodies.
- Elevated by strong technical craft in editing, music, and production design.
- Continues to draw new viewers through podcast culture references and nostalgic callbacks.
- Strengthened by cross-generational appeal that resonates with diverse voting communities.
- Well-positioned to influence future comedy mysteries that blend genre play with heartfelt drama.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which awards has Only Murders in the Building been nominated for most frequently?
Primetime Emmy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Screen Actors Guild Awards, Critics' Choice Television Awards, and Hollywood Critics Association TV Awards.
Have any cast members won competitive awards for their work on the show?
As of now, the series has secured industry guild wins, such as a Hollywood Critics Association TV Award for Best Streaming Comedy Series, but major competitive trophies like Emmys or Golden Globes remain nominations.
Does the show's format influence its award eligibility differently than a standard sitcom?
Yes, its mock-true-crime structure, anthology-style mysteries, and podcast-inspired storytelling distinguish it from traditional multi-camera comedies, which can affect how voters in writing, directing, and technical categories evaluate it.
How do fan campaigns and cultural buzz affect the show's award prospects?
Strong social engagement, convention turnout, and critical buzz often encourage voters to consider the show in broader categories like ensemble performance and new series, even when it competes against more traditional prestige dramas.