Television’s biggest night returned in style as the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards took place on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
The event celebrated the most outstanding achievements in television over the past year and was broadcast live on CBS while also streaming on Paramount+. Hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze, the ceremony honored a mix of fresh talent and seasoned stars, with several record-breaking wins and emotional moments throughout the evening.
Major Series Awards
Outstanding Drama Series
The most prestigious award of the night, Outstanding Drama Series, went to The Pitt. The show entered the evening with an impressive 13 nominations and lived up to expectations by taking home the top prize. The series, known for its gripping narrative and strong performances, triumphed over acclaimed contenders including Andor, The Diplomat, The Last of Us, Paradise, Severance, Slow Horses, and The White Lotus.
Outstanding Comedy Series
Comedy fans saw history being made when The Studio was crowned Outstanding Comedy Series. The show had already set records with 23 nominations—matching the record set by The Bear in 2024—and it went on to dominate the night. The Studio’s blend of sharp writing and standout performances, particularly from lead star Seth Rogen, solidified its place as the year’s most celebrated comedy. Other nominees included Abbott Elementary, The Bear, Hacks, Nobody Wants This, Only Murders in the Building, Shrinking, and What We Do in the Shadows.
Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series
The award for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series was given to Adolescence. This emotionally powerful series stood out in a highly competitive category that also included Black Mirror, Dying for Sex, The Penguin, and Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story.
Lead Acting Awards
Drama Series
- Lead Actor in a Drama Series: Noah Wyle won for his gripping role in The Pitt, marking a major career highlight. He overcame tough competition from Sterling K. Brown (Paradise), Gary Oldman (Slow Horses), Pedro Pascal (The Last of Us), and Adam Scott (Severance).
- Lead Actress in a Drama Series: Britt Lower took home the Emmy for her performance in Severance. Her nuanced portrayal resonated with voters, earning her victory over Kathy Bates (Matlock), Sharon Horgan (Bad Sisters), Bella Ramsey (The Last of Us), and Keri Russell (The Diplomat).
Comedy Series
- Lead Actor in a Comedy Series: Seth Rogen won for The Studio, reinforcing the series’ dominance. He triumphed over Jeremy Allen White (The Bear), Adam Brody (Nobody Wants This), Jason Segel (Shrinking), and Martin Short (Only Murders in the Building).
- Lead Actress in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart achieved her seventh career Emmy with another win for her role in Hacks. This marks her fourth Emmy specifically for Hacks. She bested fellow nominees Uzo Aduba (The Residence), Kristen Bell (Nobody Wants This), Ayo Edebiri (The Bear), and Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary).
Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
- Lead Actor: Stephen Graham was honored for his performance in Adolescence, a role that further cements his reputation as one of the most versatile actors working today. His category included Colin Farrell (The Penguin), Jake Gyllenhaal (Presumed Innocent), Brian Tyree Henry (Dope Thief), and Cooper Koch (Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story).
- Lead Actress: Cristin Milioti won for The Penguin. Her performance stood out among nominees Cate Blanchett (Disclaimer), Meghann Fahy (Sirens), Rashida Jones (Black Mirror), and Michelle Williams (Dying for Sex).
Other Notable Awards
Outstanding Talk Series
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert was recognized as the Outstanding Talk Series, beating The Daily Show and Jimmy Kimmel Live!.
Outstanding Reality Competition Program
The competitive reality TV category saw The Traitors winning Outstanding Reality Competition Program, surpassing long-running favorites like The Amazing Race, RuPaul’s Drag Race, Survivor, and Top Chef.
Key Highlights of the Ceremony
- The Pitt’s Triumph: With its win in the drama category and Noah Wyle’s acting victory, The Pitt confirmed its status as a critical and audience favorite.
- The Studio’s Historic Run: The comedy’s 23 nominations and multiple wins—including Seth Rogen’s performance—set a new benchmark for comedy success at the Emmys.
- Jean Smart’s Legacy: With her seventh career Emmy and fourth for Hacks, Jean Smart further established herself as one of the most respected actresses in television history.
- Rising Stars Shine: Adolescence and The Penguin gave platforms to both established talent like Stephen Graham and Cristin Milioti, while also showcasing fresh voices in storytelling.
- Diversity of Content: From sci-fi epics like The Last of Us and Andor to grounded dramas like Slow Horses and The Diplomat, the nominees reflected the wide range of television storytelling thriving in today’s streaming-driven era.
Complete Winners – Top Categories
- Outstanding Drama Series: Winner: The Pitt
- Outstanding Comedy Series: Winner: The Studio
- Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series: Winner: Adolescence
- Lead Actor in a Drama Series: Winner: Noah Wyle (The Pitt)
- Lead Actress in a Drama Series: Winner: Britt Lower (Severance)
- Lead Actor in a Comedy Series: Winner: Seth Rogen (The Studio)
- Lead Actress in a Comedy Series: Winner: Jean Smart (Hacks)
- Lead Actor in a Limited/Anthology Series or Movie: Winner: Stephen Graham (Adolescence)
- Lead Actress in a Limited/Anthology Series or Movie: Winner: Cristin Milioti (The Penguin)
- Outstanding Talk Series: Winner: The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
- Outstanding Reality Competition Program: Winner: The Traitors
The 77th Emmy Awards highlighted the continued evolution of television as both streaming platforms and traditional networks compete to deliver groundbreaking storytelling. With record-setting wins for The Studio, powerful performances in The Pitt and Severance, and the emotional depth of Adolescence and The Penguin, the 2025 Emmys were a celebration of television’s ability to surprise, entertain, and inspire global audiences.
