By Courtney Kochuba (DC’07)

Cromwell.The Nokia Theater in downtown L.A. pulses with a glamorous, nearly tangible energy. Six thousand of Hollywood’s finest settle into their seats, while 30 million watch from home—all waiting for the start of television’s biggest night, the 65th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards. For 2013, among the nominees are a bevy of Carnegie Mellon alumni. Particularly impressive is the breadth of nominations, which range from acting to art direction, affirming the diverse strengths of the College of Fine Arts:

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Movie:

James Cromwell (A’64) for “American Horror Story: Asylum”

Zachary Quinto (A’99) for “American Horror Story: Asylum”

Outstanding Art Direction for a Multi-Camera Series:

John Shaffner (A’76) (nominated twice) for “The Big Bang Theory” and “Two and a Half Men”

Ann Shea (A’80) (nominated twice) for “The Big Bang Theory” and “Two and a Half Men”

Outstanding Art Direction for Variety or Nonfiction Programming:

Suttirat Larlarb, associate professor of costume design, for “London 2012 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony”

Eugene Lee (A’62) for “Saturday Night Live”

Outstanding Costumes for a Series:

Eduardo Castro (A’76, A’77) for “Once Upon a Time”

Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction for a Variety Special:

Robert A. Dickinson (H’05) (nominated twice) for “The 55th Annual Grammy Awards” and “The Oscars”

Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series:

Jeffrey Klarik (A’69) for “Episodes”

Outstanding Art Direction for a Miniseries or Movie:

Mark Worthington (A’91) (nominated twice) for “American Horror Story: Asylum”

Edward Rubin (A’82) for “American Horror Story: Asylum”

In addition, shows produced by the production company of John Wells (A’79) received two nominations:

Outstanding Stunt Coordination for a Drama Series, Miniseries, or Movie:

 • “Southland”

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series:

• “Shameless”

Among the crowd, Cromwell seems to hold particular interest during the ceremony, as this marks his fourth nomination in his 40-year career, with no wins.

Halfway through the telecast, it’s time for the category that includes Cromwell and Quinto. Cromwell nabs the Emmy, to rousing applause, including from Quinto. Lee and Larlarb win golden statues as well to make it a winning night for Carnegie Mellon