The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony, held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, in Los Angeles, proved to be an unforgettable night for the television industry. Comedian Nate Bargatze, serving as the host, brought his signature deadpan humour to the stage, setting a lighthearted yet celebratory tone for an evening that honoured the best in American prime time programming. Stars from across the television landscape gathered to celebrate a year of groundbreaking storytelling, powerhouse performances, and creative excellence, all culminating in the highest honours the industry has to offer.
While the competition was fierce, the night ultimately belonged to a handful of standout shows that repeatedly found themselves in the winner’s circle. The intense medical drama The Pitt proved to be a critical darling, securing the night’s most coveted prize. On the comedy side, the satirical genius of The Studio captivated voters, leading to a near-sweep of its nominated categories. Meanwhile, the gripping psychological thriller Adolescence dominated the limited series field, earning a powerful send-off for its singular season.
This year’s awards also served as a moment to recognise both long-time favourites and fresh new talent. From veteran actors finally getting their due to rising stars making their mark, the winners’ list is a testament to the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of television. We break down the key categories and the winners who took home the golden statuettes, celebrating the achievements that made the past year in television truly spectacular.
OUTSTANDING DRAMA SERIES
In a tight race, the acclaimed medical drama The Pitt took home the night’s top prize. Beating heavy hitters like Severance and The White Lotus, the HBO Max series proved a critics’ darling with its powerful performances and compelling storylines.
OUTSTANDING COMEDY SERIES
Seth Rogen’s groundbreaking Apple TV+ satire, The Studio, was the undisputed comedy winner of the night, also setting a record for most wins for a comedy series in a single season. The show’s innovative format and sharp wit resonated with voters, securing a decisive victory.
OUTSTANDING LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY SERIES
Netflix’s harrowing and timely psychological thriller, Adolescence, swept the limited series categories. The British production was a strong contender throughout the awards season and cemented its status as a must-watch with this win.
OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES
Veteran actor Noah Wyle clinched his first-ever Emmy for his powerful and nuanced performance in The Pitt. It was a well-deserved win, the climax of a remarkable television career.
OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES
In a surprise victory, Britt Lower won for her captivating dual performance in Severance, beating out perennial favourites and multiple nominees from The White Lotus.
OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES
Seth Rogen took home the award for his role as Matt Remick in The Studio, an impressive win that also saw him recognised for his writing and directing on the series.
OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES
For the third time, the incomparable Jean Smart won the Emmy for her role in Hacks, further cementing her legendary status as one of television’s greatest comedic actresses.
OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTOR IN A LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY SERIES OR MOVIE
British actor Stephen Graham was recognised for his intense and emotional portrayal in Adolescence. His win was a highlight of the night, as he also served as an executive producer and co-writer on the series.
OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTRESS IN A LIMITED OR ANTHOLOGY SERIES OR MOVIE
Cristin Milioti snagged the Emmy for her chilling performance as Sofia Falcone in The Penguin. Her nuanced and terrifying portrayal of the mob boss’s daughter stood out in a competitive category.
WHICH WIN SURPRISED YOU THE MOST AT THIS YEAR’S EMMY AWARDS?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
