"To my fellow nominees, whoever they are - I'm not that familiar with their work - I just want to say, there's always next year - except, you know, for Ray Romano "

Tony Shalhoub's quote is a humorous method of acknowledging his fellow candidates while also acknowledging the success of Ray Romano. He acknowledges that he is not knowledgeable about the work of his fellow candidates, however still wants them luck for the future. He then includes a joke about Ray Romano, suggesting that he is so successful that he will not need to wait for next year. This quote is a lighthearted method of lionizing for his fellow candidates while likewise recognizing the success of Ray Romano. It is an amusing way of revealing humbleness and appreciation for the work of others. It is also a suggestion that success is possible, even if it takes some time and hard work.