Before landing the role of Alexis Rose on Schitt’s Creek, the “little sitcom that could,” Annie Murphy was struggling and nearly ready to give up on acting.
“I had a big, tearful breakdown in the Pacific Ocean, convinced that acting wasn’t meant for me. The next day, I got the audition for Schitt’s Creek,” she recalled in a phone interview from Toronto. “That audition changed my life in so many amazing ways.”
Now, six years later, Murphy has been nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Her co-stars Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, and Dan Levy also received nominations for their roles as Moira, Johnny, and David Rose, the formerly wealthy family adjusting to life in a small-town motel. The show also earned nominations for several behind-the-scenes categories.
“I couldn’t be more grateful to be part of a show that has been so warmly received,” Murphy said. “It’s a show that celebrates love, inclusivity, and acceptance—values that are incredibly important, especially now.”
Reflecting on her Emmy nomination, Murphy shared, “It’s been a great morning. I woke up early, had pancakes, bacon, coffee, and then got the news about the nomination. So, yeah, it’s been a lovely day so far.”
She expressed her happiness for her co-stars: “I was hopeful for Eugene and Catherine, and I’m thrilled they were nominated. It’s also fantastic that, in our final season, the show received recognition across the board—for writing, directing, hair and makeup, costumes, and more. This is such a talented group of people, and I’m so proud they’re getting the acknowledgment they deserve.”
Murphy also reflected on the emotional scenes from the final season. “The breakup scene between Ted and Alexis was particularly memorable, especially since it was one of Dustin Milligan’s last days on set. It was a goodbye for our characters and for our time working together,” she said. “The very last scene we filmed was a farewell to Johnny and Moira. It was also my last scene and Dan’s last scene of the entire series. I think you can see a lot of Dan Levy and Annie Murphy having a therapeutic cry in that moment, more than just Alexis and David. But yes, there were tears—definitely character tears.”
