Competing in the Best Drama category with the show are 'Breaking Bad', 'The Good Wife', 'Game Of Thrones', 'Boardwalk Empire', 'Downton Abbey' and 'Homeland'.

British Drama 'Downton Abbey' did not perform too badly as well. After winning Best Miniseries last year, they switched categories this year and picked up 16 nominations.

Meanwhile, as Nick Offerson was delayed by weather problems, Jimmy Kimmel replaced him to announce the nomination list.

He took to the stage in his pyjamas with Kerry Washington who asked, "Is this a sex dream?"

Jimmy will also be hosting the annual Emmy awards on September 23rd at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles.

2012 Emmy Awards main nominations:

Best Drama Series:

'Boardwalk Empire'

'Breaking Bad'

'Downton Abbey'

'Mad Men'

'Homeland'

'Game Of Thrones'

Best Actor in a Drama Series:

Steve Buscemi ('Boardwalk Empire')

Michael C Hall ('Dexter')

Bryan Cranston ('Breaking Bad')

Hugh Bonneville ('Downton Abbey')

Jon Hamm ('Mad Men')

Damian Lewis ('Homeland')

Best Actress in a Drama Series:

Julianna Marguiles ('The Good Wife')

Michelle Dockery ('Downton Abbey')

Elisabeth Moss ('Mad Men')

Kathy Bates ('Harry's Law')

Claire Danes ('Homeland')

Glenn Close ('Damages')

Best Comedy Series:

'Curb Your Enthusiasm'

'Girls'

'30 Rock'

'Veep'

'Modern Family'

'The Big Bang Theory'