The nominations for the 2023 Children’s & Family Emmy Awards are here, featuring a mix of viral stars, Hollywood legends, and a nostalgic Friends reunion twist. From educational YouTube phenom Ms. Rachel to 94-year-old June Squibb and a head-to-head showdown between Lisa Kudrow and David Schwimmer, this year’s lineup celebrates talent that delights kids and parents alike.
Ms. Rachel: From YouTube to Emmy Nominee
Rachel Accurso, better known as Ms. Rachel, has become a household name with her hit YouTube series Songs for Littles. Combining speech therapy techniques with catchy tunes, her channel has captivated millions of toddlers (and exhausted parents). Now, she’s nominated for Outstanding Host in a Preschool, Children’s or Family Viewing Program, facing off against Sesame Street’s Alan Muraoka and Blue’s Clues & You!’s Joshua Dela Cruz.
“This nomination is a dream come true,” Ms. Rachel shared on Instagram. “To be recognized alongside the shows that inspired me is surreal.” With her viral success and devoted fanbase, she’s a strong contender for the win.
June Squibb: A Record-Breaking Nominee at 94
June Squibb, the Oscar-nominated star of Nebraska, just made Emmy history as one of the oldest nominees ever. Her role as Alice in Alice’s Wonderland Bakery earned her a nod for Outstanding Voice Performance in a Preschool Animated Program.
Squibb’s witty response? “I never imagined I’d be doing voice work at this age, but here we are!” Competing against Muppet Babies’ Matt Danner and Elinor Wonders Why’s Markeda McKay, her timeless charm could clinch the trophy.
The Friends Reunion No One Saw Coming
In a delightful twist, Lisa Kudrow (Phoebe) and David Schwimmer (Ross) are nominated against each other for Outstanding Guest Performance. Kudrow appears in Ada Twist, Scientist as quirky Auntie Z, while Schwimmer plays the earnest Mr. Benedict in The Mysterious Benedict Society.
Fans are loving the irony: 23 years after Friends ended, we get Phoebe vs. Ross! Who will take home the Emmy—the whimsical scientist or the lovable leader?
Other Standout Nominations
- Bluey dominates with nods for Outstanding Preschool Animated Series and Writing.
- LGBTQ+ hit Heartstopper scores a nomination for Outstanding Young Teen Series.
- Sesame Street continues its legacy with multiple nominations, including Preschool Series.
Why These Emmys Matter
The Children’s & Family Emmys spotlight shows that educate, entertain, and bring families together. This year’s nominees—from digital creators to industry legends—prove the genre’s growing diversity and impact.
Final Predictions
Will Ms. Rachel’s YouTube fame triumph? Can June Squibb make history? And which Friends star will win the ultimate bragging rights? Tune in to the live ceremony on December 17 to find out!
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