2025 Emmy Nominations: 'Severance' Leads with 27 Nods, 'The Studio' Close Behind

The television landscape is buzzing with the announcement of the 2025 Emmy nominations, revealing a mix of expected contenders and surprising dark horses. This year, 'Severance' emerged as the frontrunner, securing an impressive 27 nominations. Close on its heels is 'The Studio', a freshman comedy series that has broken records, surpassing even 'Ted Lasso' with 23 nominations. The nominations span a wide range of categories, highlighting the diverse and high-quality content that graced our screens this past year.

The stars of 'Severance' celebrate their 27 Emmy nominations for the 2025 awards, leading all shows

Top Nominees and Key Categories

Several shows have emerged as strong contenders this year, each showcasing unique storytelling and exceptional performances. The competition is fierce, making the 2025 Emmys one of the most anticipated events in television.

'Severance': Leading with 27 nominations, the Apple TV+ sci-fi thriller has captivated audiences with its mind-bending narrative and stellar performances. The show explores the concept of work-life balance in a dystopian corporate setting, making it a thought-provoking and engaging watch.
'The Studio': This freshman comedy series made a splash, securing 23 nominations and breaking the record previously held by 'Ted Lasso'. A hilarious and heartwarming take on the entertainment industry, 'The Studio' follows a group of eccentric personalities as they navigate the ups and downs of show business.
'The White Lotus': The HBO drama continues its awards success, earning multiple nominations for its cast and writing. With its sharp social commentary and stunning visuals, 'The White Lotus' offers a compelling look at wealth, privilege, and human nature.
'The Penguin': This limited series has also garnered significant attention, positioning itself as a strong contender in its category. A gritty and suspenseful crime drama, 'The Penguin' delves into the dark underbelly of Gotham City, exploring themes of power, corruption, and redemption.

Key acting categories saw nominations for:

Keri Russell for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series ('The Diplomat'). Her nuanced portrayal of a seasoned diplomat navigating international crises has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Noah Wyle for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series ('The Pitt'). Wyle's portrayal of a dedicated doctor working in a struggling hospital has resonated with audiences, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of healthcare professionals.
Quinta Brunson for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series ('Abbott Elementary'). Brunson's comedic timing and heartfelt performance as a passionate teacher have made 'Abbott Elementary' a fan favorite.
Seth Rogen for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series ('The Studio'). Rogen's portrayal of a quirky and lovable showrunner has brought laughter and joy to audiences, solidifying his status as a comedic icon.

Comedy Series Highlights

The comedy categories are particularly competitive this year, with several shows vying for top honors. 'Hacks' and 'Only Murders in the Building' are among the favorites, alongside the newcomer 'The Studio'. Each of these shows brings a unique brand of humor to the table, making the comedy categories a must-watch.

'Hacks' received nominations for Outstanding Comedy Series, Lead Actress (Jean Smart), Supporting Actress (Hannah Einbinder), and Writing. The show's sharp wit and insightful commentary on the entertainment industry have made it a critical darling.
'Only Murders in the Building' earned nods for Outstanding Comedy Series and Lead Actor (Martin Short). With its clever mysteries and stellar cast, 'Only Murders in the Building' has become a streaming sensation.
'The Bear' also secured multiple nominations, including Lead Actor (Jeremy Allen White) and Supporting Actress (Liza Colón-Zayas). The show's intense and realistic portrayal of the restaurant industry has resonated with audiences, making it a breakout hit.

Guest acting categories also feature a star-studded lineup, with nominations for Olivia Colman, Jamie Lee Curtis ('The Bear'), Bryan Cranston, Ron Howard, Dave Franco ('The Studio'), and Martin Short ('Saturday Night Live'). These talented actors have brought their A-game to their respective roles, adding depth and humor to the shows they've appeared in.

Drama Series Standouts

The cast of 'The Penguin' pose for a promotional shot, nominated for multiple Emmys at the 2025 awards

In the drama categories, 'Severance' and 'The White Lotus' lead the charge, with 'The Pitt' and 'The Diplomat' also securing nominations. These shows have captivated audiences with their compelling storylines, complex characters, and exceptional performances.

'The White Lotus' continues its dominance, earning nominations for Outstanding Drama Series, Supporting Actress (Parker Posey, Carrie Coon, Natasha Rothwell, Aimee Lou Wood), and Supporting Actor (Walton Goggins, Jason Isaacs, Sam Rockwell). The show's exploration of wealth, privilege, and human nature has made it a critical and commercial success.
'Severance' received nominations for Outstanding Drama Series, Lead Actor (Adam Scott), and Supporting Actor (Tramell Tillman, John Turturro). The show's mind-bending narrative and stellar performances have captivated audiences, making it a standout in the drama category.
'The Diplomat' earned nominations for Outstanding Drama Series and Lead Actress (Keri Russell). The show's gripping portrayal of international crises and political intrigue has resonated with audiences, solidifying its status as a must-watch drama.
'The Pitt' secured nominations for Lead Actor (Noah Wyle) and Guest Actor (Shawn Hatosy). The show's realistic and heartfelt portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of healthcare professionals has made it a fan favorite.

The guest acting categories are filled with talent, including Scott Glenn ('The White Lotus'), Jeffrey Wright ('The Last of Us'), and Merritt Wever ('Severance'). These actors have delivered memorable performances, adding depth and nuance to their respective roles.

Limited Series and TV Movies

The limited series and TV movie categories showcase a diverse range of compelling stories, each offering a unique perspective on the human experience. From crime dramas to romantic comedies, these categories highlight the versatility and creativity of television.

'The Penguin' is a strong contender in the Limited Series category, along with 'Adolescence' and 'Dying for Sex'. These shows have captivated audiences with their gripping storylines, complex characters, and exceptional performances.
'Rebel Ridge' and 'Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy' are among the nominees for Best TV Movie. These films have entertained audiences with their compelling narratives, memorable characters, and heartwarming moments.

Notable acting nominations include Michelle Williams ('Dying for Sex'), Colin Farrell ('The Penguin'), and Stephen Graham ('Adolescence'). These talented actors have delivered powerful performances, adding depth and emotion to their respective roles.

Reality and Variety Programs

The reality and variety categories highlight the best in competition, talk shows, and scripted series, showcasing the diverse and entertaining world of unscripted television. From talent competitions to late-night talk shows, these categories offer something for everyone.

'The Traitors' and 'RuPaul's Drag Race' are nominated for Best Competition Program. These shows have captivated audiences with their thrilling challenges, fierce competition, and unforgettable personalities.
'Last Week Tonight with John Oliver' and 'Saturday Night Live' are contenders for Best Variety Scripted Series. These shows have entertained audiences with their sharp wit, insightful commentary, and hilarious sketches.
'The Daily Show' and 'Late Show with Stephen Colbert' are nominated for Best Variety Talk Series. These shows have informed and entertained audiences with their insightful interviews, comedic monologues, and engaging discussions.

Animation and Other Categories

In animation, 'The Simpsons' and 'Arcane' are among the nominees for Best Animated Program. These shows have captivated audiences with their imaginative worlds, memorable characters, and timeless stories.

Jinx from Arcane, nominated for the 2025 Emmy for best animated program

Other notable nominations include 'Dancing with the Stars' for Outstanding Makeup and Hairstyling, and 'Cobra Kai' for Outstanding Music Composition. These shows have showcased exceptional talent and creativity, adding to the richness and diversity of the television landscape.

Community Reactions and Discussions

The announcement of the Emmy nominations has sparked numerous discussions across social media platforms, with fans and critics weighing in on the snubs and surprises. The online communities have been buzzing with excitement, speculation, and passionate debates.

On Reddit, users have been actively discussing the nominations, sharing their thoughts on various categories and nominees. Here are some highlights from the discussions:

In r/television, the top comment expresses excitement about 'Severance' leading the nominations, with many users praising the show's innovative storytelling and stellar cast. The community is eagerly anticipating the awards ceremony, hoping to see 'Severance' take home the top prizes.
The r/TheBear community celebrates the acting nominations for Ayo Edebiri, Jeremy Allen White, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Fans are thrilled to see their favorite actors recognized for their outstanding performances in the show.
Fans of r/andor are pleased with the show's nominations, particularly for Best Drama Series and Forest Whitaker's guest actor nod. However, some express concern over potential snubs in other categories. The community is hoping that 'Andor' will receive the recognition it deserves at the Emmys.
r/popculturechat highlights 'Severance' as the most nominated series, emphasizing its 27 nominations. The community is impressed by the show's dominance in the nominations and is eagerly anticipating the awards ceremony.
The r/hackshbomax community is thrilled about the nominations for their show, particularly in costume design and cinematography. The community is praising the show's attention to detail and its commitment to creating a visually stunning experience.

Snubs and Surprises

As with every awards season, the 2025 Emmy nominations were not without their share of snubs and surprises. These unexpected omissions and inclusions have sparked lively debates and discussions among fans and critics alike.

Some notable omissions include:

'Squid Game' and 'The Handmaid's Tale' receiving fewer nominations than anticipated, according to r/popculture. Fans of these shows were disappointed to see them overlooked in several key categories.
'Murderbot' not meeting eligibility requirements due to the timing of its release, as discussed in r/murderbot. The community expressed frustration over the show's ineligibility, feeling that it deserved recognition for its unique storytelling and compelling characters.

However, there were also pleasant surprises, such as 'The Studio' breaking records for a freshman comedy series and 'Paradise' securing nominations in major categories. These unexpected successes have brought joy and excitement to the online communities, highlighting the unpredictable nature of awards season.

Apple's Strong Showing

Apple TV+ had a particularly strong showing this year, securing a total of 79 Emmy nominations. This success is largely attributed to the popularity and critical acclaim of shows like 'Severance', which has resonated with audiences and critics alike. According to r/tvPlus, Apple's commitment to high-quality original content has paid off, positioning the streaming service as a major player in the television industry. The streaming service's investment in innovative storytelling and exceptional talent has solidified its place among the top contenders in the television landscape.

'Interview with the Vampire' Earns Recognition

Despite facing tough competition, 'Interview with the Vampire' secured two Emmy nominations, much to the delight of its dedicated fanbase. The show received nods for:

Outstanding Period or Fantasy/Sci-Fi Hairstyling
Outstanding Period or Fantasy/Sci-Fi Makeup

As noted in r/InterviewVampire, fans are celebrating the show's recognition in these categories, praising the exceptional work of the hair and makeup teams in bringing the world of the vampires to life. The show's commitment to authenticity and its stunning visual aesthetic have earned it critical acclaim and a devoted following.

Daytime Emmy Nominations

The Daytime Emmy nominations were also announced, recognizing the best in daytime television. Several soap operas received nominations, including 'Days of Our Lives' and 'The Young and the Restless'. These shows have entertained audiences for decades, becoming cultural touchstones and beloved traditions.

As shared in r/SoapNet and r/DaysofOurLives, these nominations celebrate the enduring appeal and quality of daytime dramas. The communities are rallying behind their favorite shows, hoping to see them take home the coveted awards.

The Rise of Streaming Services

One of the most significant trends in the 2025 Emmy nominations is the continued dominance of streaming services. Platforms like Netflix, Apple TV+, and HBO Max have become major players in the television industry, producing high-quality original content that rivals traditional network television. This shift has transformed the way we consume entertainment, offering viewers a wider range of choices and greater flexibility in how they watch their favorite shows.

The success of streaming services at the Emmys reflects their growing influence and their ability to attract top talent. As the television landscape continues to evolve, streaming services are poised to play an even greater role in shaping the future of entertainment.

Looking Ahead

The 77th Emmy Awards promise to be an exciting event, celebrating the best in television. With 'Severance' and 'The Studio' leading the pack, the competition is fierce across all categories. The awards ceremony will be a night of glamour, celebration, and recognition for the talented individuals who have brought joy, laughter, and inspiration to audiences around the world.

As the awards ceremony approaches, fans and industry insiders alike will be eagerly anticipating the results, ready to celebrate the talent and creativity that define the television landscape. The 2025 Emmys will undoubtedly be a memorable event, showcasing the best that television has to offer and setting the stage for another year of exceptional programming.

Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis as the 2025 Emmy season unfolds. The journey to the awards ceremony is sure to be filled with surprises, excitement, and passionate debates, as fans and critics alike weigh in on the merits of their favorite shows and performers.

The 2025 Emmy nominations reflect the ever-changing landscape of television, highlighting the rise of streaming services, the diversity of programming, and the exceptional talent that continues to drive the industry forward. As we look ahead to the awards ceremony, we can anticipate a night of celebration, recognition, and appreciation for the art of storytelling on the small screen.

From the gripping dramas to the hilarious comedies, the 2025 Emmy nominations showcase the power of television to entertain, inform, and inspire. The nominated shows have touched our hearts, challenged our minds, and brought us together as a community of viewers. As we celebrate the achievements of these talented individuals, we can also appreciate the impact that television has on our lives and its ability to shape our culture.

The 2025 Emmy nominations are a testament to the creativity, innovation, and dedication of the people who work in the television industry. These talented individuals have poured their hearts and souls into their craft, creating unforgettable stories that will be cherished for years to come. As we celebrate their achievements, we can also recognize the importance of supporting the arts and fostering a culture of creativity and innovation.