The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards celebrated a dynamic year in television, marking a shift towards recognizing both established veterans and rising talents across a highly competitive landscape. The ceremony, hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze, delivered unexpected wins, heartfelt speeches, and a few controversial moments, reflecting the evolving nature of prestige television.

Apple TV+’s satirical series, “The Studio,” emerged as the night's biggest victor, securing an impressive 13 trophies in total. This included nine awards from the Creative Arts Emmys and an additional four at the Primetime ceremony. Key wins for “The Studio” included Outstanding Comedy Series, Lead Comedy Actor for Seth Rogen (his first Emmy after nine prior nominations), and awards for comedy directing (shared by Rogen and Evan Goldberg) and comedy writing (shared by Rogen, Goldberg, Peter Huyck, Alex Gregory, and Frida Perez). These achievements positioned “The Studio” as the most-awarded comedy series in a single year and a record-holder for a freshman comedy series.

Netflix’s acclaimed British crime drama, “Adolescence,” was another dominant force, taking home eight awards. Its significant wins included Outstanding Limited Series, and a groundbreaking win for Stephen Graham as Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series. Graham, who also served as a creator and co-writer, reflected on his unlikely journey from a working-class background to Emmy success. Fifteen-year-old Owen Cooper made history as the youngest-ever male actor to win an Emmy, securing Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series. Erin Doherty also won for Supporting Actress in the same category, while Philip Barantini was recognized for directing, and Graham alongside Jack Thorne for writing. “Adolescence” became one of Netflix’s biggest hits of 2025, praised for its powerful performances and exploration of complex social issues.

HBO’s drama “The Pitt” also had a memorable night, winning five Emmys, including the coveted Outstanding Drama Series. This victory underscored the Academy's appreciation for grounded, character-driven storytelling. Noah Wyle, known for his long run on “ER,” achieved his first Emmy win for Lead Actor in a Drama Series, dedicating his award to hospital workers. Katherine LaNasa also marked a career milestone by winning Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her nuanced performance in the show.

Other notable winners included Cristin Milioti, who earned her first Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series for her compelling portrayal of Sofia Falcone in HBO’s “The Penguin,” which accumulated nine awards overall. Apple TV+’s “Severance” also saw significant recognition, with Britt Lower winning Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her complex dual role, and Tramell Tillman making history as the first Black man to win Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his unsettling performance as Milchick. “Severance” garnered an impressive 27 nominations overall.

In the comedy categories, Jean Smart continued her winning streak, securing her fourth Emmy for Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for HBO/Max’s “Hacks.” Her co-star, Hannah Einbinder, also claimed her first Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, delivering a politically charged acceptance speech supporting Palestine, which included the line