Kristen Bell’s star has reached a new pinnacle with her very first Emmy nomination for her role in Netflix’s charming romantic comedy, Nobody Wants This. This milestone comes after a career filled with beloved roles but no previous Emmy nods, marking an exciting new chapter for the 44-year-old actress.
“Nobody Wants This” becomes a breakout hit and Emmy contender
Nobody Wants This quickly captured audiences since its Netflix debut. The series follows Joanne, portrayed by Kristen Bell, an agnostic woman who hosts a relationship podcast with her sister Morgan, only to find herself falling for Noah, a recently single rabbi played by Adam Brody. Created by Erin Foster, the show is partly inspired by her own life story, which adds a grounded authenticity to this fresh take on modern romance.
Kristen Bell’s move back to television for this show after a hiatus also speaks to the script’s strength and appeal. Bell described it as a “grown-up rom-com” that speaks honestly about dating apps and bridging deep cultural and religious differences in relationships — something both challenging and relatable. This authenticity helped propel the show to gaining strong critical acclaim and viewer enthusiasm.
Key Points Summary:
- Kristen Bell receives her first Emmy nomination for Best Comedy Actress for Nobody Wants This (Netflix).
- The show features Bell as a podcaster who falls for a rabbi, exploring love across differing worldviews.
- Created by Erin Foster, the rom-com draws from Foster’s real-life experiences.
- The series premiered September 26, 2024, and was quickly renewed for season 2.
- Other principal cast includes Adam Brody, Justine Lupe, Timothy Simons.
- Critics highly praised the show’s sharp humor, chemistry between leads, and heartfelt storytelling.
- Nobody Wants This received a total of 3 Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Lead Actor for Adam Brody.
An Emmy Nomination Long Overdue
Kristen Bell joins a competitive Best Comedy Actress category alongside celebrated performers like Uzo Aduba and Quinta Brunson. Despite her long-standing success with hits such as Veronica Mars and The Good Place, this nomination is a meaningful acknowledgment of her talent in a leading role that resonates widely.
For Kristen Bell, the role of Joanne was a perfect fit. After years balancing family life and carefully choosing projects close to her heart, she returned to acting because Nobody Wants This stood out as genuinely funny and enjoyable to shoot. The nomination shines a spotlight on her nuanced portrayal of a woman navigating love and personal belief.
Why “Nobody Wants This” Connects
The show’s charm lies in its grounded depiction of modern relationships. Bell explained how the storyline goes beyond a simple romance, focusing on what happens when a couple must face the real world and the complexities it brings. This approach makes Nobody Wants This stand apart from typical romantic comedies, adding layers of realism.
Moreover, the refreshing chemistry between Bell and Brody, combined with witty writing and heartfelt moments, made the series a fan favorite. Its positive reception even pushed the streaming numbers high enough to secure a second season, which will premiere October 23, 2025.
Looking Ahead to Season 2
Fans eagerly await the next chapter as the creators have promised that the most surprising moments won’t focus solely on the central romance, but rather on the rich, evolving world the characters inhabit. Season 2 promises to deepen the story’s exploration of love, family, and faith, continuing the balance of humor and sincerity.
The 77th Emmy Awards ceremony, where Bell will compete in the Best Comedy Actress category, is scheduled for September 14, 2025, hosted by Nate Bargatze on ABC.
Stay Tuned and Join the Conversation
The success of Nobody Wants This and Kristen Bell’s Emmy nod marks an exciting moment for fans of intelligent, heartfelt rom-coms. Whether you are already hooked or new to the series, it’s the perfect time to watch or rewatch the show—before the new season arrives. Share your thoughts and excitement about Kristen Bell’s breakthrough and the series’ future in the comments below. Let’s celebrate this fresh and relatable take on love that nobody wants to miss!