Emmy predictions: Drama, Best Lead Actor and Actress

Let's get serious for a moment, Emmy voters. -- Lead actor and actress in a drama series. (suggestions for outstanding comedy and drama series will be posted tomorrow.) Please use this list of recommendations as your own personal cheat sheet. Cool. Oh, and I will be checking the picks against the official nominations when they come out on July 16. You know, just to see.

Best Actor (Drama)

* Gabriel Byrne (In Treatment): He bared his soul as his shrink got shrunk.

* Kyle Chandler (Friday Night Lights): The series' heart and soul never punts. Ever.

* Michael Chiklis (The Shield): He made his character sympathetic right down to his final despicable act. That's art.

* Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad): I'm not a fan of reruns, but c'mon, last year's winner deserves a repeat.

* Hugh Laurie (House): He kissed Cuddy, lost Kutner, saw dead people, and got committed. 'Nuff said.

* Denis Leary (Rescue Me): Fired up about the show's creative resurgence? Thank the guy who fanned the flame.

Best Actress (Drama)

* January Jones (Mad Men): Played the ultimate desperate housewife with remarkable restraint.

* Regina King (Southland): Her complicated, compassionate cop is the standout in a top-notch ensemble.

* Jeanne Tripplehorn (Big Love): When her devout character was excommunicated, it was a religious experience for me, too!

* Glenn Close (Damages): So sharp, she cut clean through a scattered season 2.

* Evangeline Lilly (Lost): She parted ways with "son" Aaron and delivered the mother of all performances.

* Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men): Masterfully conveyed the quiet pain of giving up a child.

Also see

Emmy predictions: Drama, Best Supporting Actor and Actress

Emmy predictions: Comedy, Best Lead Actor and Actress

Emmy predictions: Comedy, Best Supporting Actor and Actress

Emmy predictions: Best Comedy and Drama Series

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