By Kamal Yalwa | September 15, 2025
The 2025 Emmy Awards were dominated by the dark British limited series “Adolescence” and Seth Rogen’s biting Hollywood satire “The Studio,” both of which swept major categories during Sunday night’s ceremony.
The emotionally charged teen murder drama “Adolescence” took home eight awards, including Best Limited Series, as well as accolades for writing, directing, lead actor, and supporting performances. The Netflix hit, which explores toxic masculinity and the impact of social media on youth, became a global phenomenon with over 140 million views in its first three months.
Co-creator and star Stephen Graham, who plays the father of the teenage suspect, acknowledged the show’s unexpected global resonance. “We never expected our little program to have such a big impact,” he said.
15-year-old Owen Cooper, who plays the lead role, made history as the youngest male actor to win an Emmy. “Honestly, when I started these drama classes a couple of years back, I didn’t expect to be even in the United States, never mind here,” he said emotionally.
‘The Pitt’ Wins Best Drama in Surprise Upset
In what many considered a surprise victory, “The Pitt” clinched Best Drama Series, edging out frontrunner “Severance.” The gripping medical drama, set entirely during a single chaotic hospital shift in Pittsburgh, gained traction through word-of-mouth after a quiet debut.
Veteran actor Noah Wyle won Best Drama Actor for his role as the hospital’s weary ER chief. “Anybody going on shift tonight or coming off shift tonight — thank you for being in that job. This is for you,” Wyle said, dedicating the win to real-life healthcare workers.
Katherine LaNasa also took home Best Supporting Actress in a drama for her role on The Pitt.
‘The Studio’ Breaks Records in Comedy Categories
Seth Rogen’s “The Studio” dominated the comedy awards, earning Best Comedy Series and a total of 13 Emmys, including Best Actor, Writing, and Directing — setting a new record for comedy wins in a single year.
The sharp satire, which both celebrates and critiques Hollywood culture, was lauded for its clever storytelling and self-awareness. Rogen plays a struggling movie executive navigating the industry’s absurdities.
In the supporting categories, Jean Smart won her fourth Emmy for “Hacks”, while Hannah Einbinder earned her first Emmy as Best Supporting Actress. Einbinder’s speech briefly caused controversy when she criticized a U.S. government agency involved in immigration raids and ended with the words “Free Palestine” — a moment that was muted by CBS.
