Elle Fanning Shines in “Margo is in trouble with money” Amid Emmy Buzz
As the conversation swirls around potential nominees for the 2026 Emmy Award for Lead Actress in a Comedy Series, with names like Jean Smart and Lisa Kudrow in the mix, another contender has quietly emerged: Elle Fanning. The new series Margo is in trouble with money hints at her rising status.
The show, now available on Apple TV, might still see some surprise entries as the Emmy conversation heats up. With Michelle Pfeiffer playing a villainous character and Nick Offerman as a retired wrestler, their performances could easily catch the eye of voters. Fanning’s name, while perhaps not as heralded, seems to be gaining momentum as she heads into this significant time for television.
In the sixth episode titled “Grudge Match,” Fanning fully embraces her character Margo’s quirky side, exploring an unfiltered part of her persona. This 37-minute episode provides an insightful exploration for women, particularly those in challenging situations, showing the stark contrast between being at the top and the bottom.
While it’s hard to pinpoint what truly merits an Emmy, I often reflect on which performances will linger in voters’ memories. Did each nominee manage to accomplish something distinctive in their category? Just as I believe musical performances deserve extra credit at awards shows, I think it’s essential to spotlight those individual moments that make performances stand out.
Honestly, I can’t think of anyone else tackling the kind of outlandish scenes that Fanning does—like painting herself green, tearing into a bag of chips, and donning an eye-catching alien costume. This episode certainly left a mark on me, thanks to its chaotic yet youthful energy.
Fanning’s talent is particularly evident in the episode’s rapid moments, whether she’s dancing in her alien getup or interacting with the character of her child’s father during a Christmas gathering. Even in a short segment, she manages to make every second count. Her ability to blend humor and emotion, even in the most intense moments, showcases why she is such a compelling actress. She can evoke laughter and tears almost concurrently, and that was exceptionally true in this episode.
As we gear up for this year’s Emmy competition, keep an eye on Kudrow, Smart, and the rest of the field. There’s a new force in the mix—Margo is certainly making her presence known.
The first six episodes of Margo is in trouble with money are currently streaming on Apple TV.
