The Emmy nominations 2025 have landed, and with them comes a wave of admiration, confusion, and a fair amount of controversy. Every year, the Television Academy makes decisions that not only reflect the best of TV but also ignite debate across audiences and critics alike. This year is no different. With numerous unexpected nods and eyebrow-raising omissions, the list has stirred the industry once again.
As fans scroll through the Emmy nominations 2025 full list, they’re met with an emotional mix—delight for deserving newcomers, disappointment for overlooked veterans, and sheer disbelief at some surprising snubs. From underdog comedies to heavyweight dramas, this season’s awards race has taken unpredictable turns.
Before diving into the most talked-about wins and absences, one thing is clear: the 2025 Emmy snubs and surprises are fueling a wider conversation about what the Emmys value most—artistry, popularity, or a bit of both.
Top Nominated Shows Emmy 2025 Severance: Why It Dominated
One of the most exciting developments this year was the dominant presence of Severance, which topped the charts in the drama category. As reported by The Guardian, the show continued its reign with precision, gripping storytelling, and a unique aesthetic that’s caught the industry’s attention since its debut.
Its renewed relevance in 2025 reflects how deeply it has embedded itself in public consciousness. The visual execution, the emotional performances, and its mysterious narrative arc all contributed to its dominance. When discussing the top nominated shows Emmy 2025 Severance, it’s not hard to see why this one came out ahead—season two dug deeper into its dystopian themes and elevated its characters to new heights.
While the show deserved its nominations, the sheer volume of recognition it received left some fans wondering if others were unjustly left behind.
Record‑Setting Freshman Series The Studio Nominations Break Ground
Then there’s The Studio, which shocked even seasoned critics with its historic number of nods. According to EW.com, this record‑setting freshman series The Studio nominations signify a shift in what Emmy voters are celebrating: original, bold storytelling in a media-saturated age.
No other first-year show has made such an impact in such a short time. With powerful direction and performances from relatively unknown actors, The Studio carved a path that many veterans envy. Its story—tackling corporate corruption and creative compromise in the entertainment industry—resonated not just with audiences but with Emmy voters, too.
Citing Vulture, many now consider this series the new gold standard for debut productions.
The Biggest Surprises in Emmy Nominations This Year
Looking beyond the predictable nods, the biggest surprises in Emmy nominations caught many off guard. For instance, The Curse scored multiple nominations, even though its initial reception was lukewarm. According to Vanity Fair, its late-season surge in popularity might have played a crucial role.
Then there’s the resurgence of comedy series like Unstable, which seemed to fly under the radar during the release but made a late impression with its unique tone and tight writing. Shows that performed well critically but didn’t trend much—such as Somebody Somewhere—also found their place, proving that Emmy voters aren’t solely driven by social media trends.
According to AP News, this year is evidence that the Academy is still capable of surprises, rewarding quality even when it doesn’t come with a buzzworthy hashtag.
Squid Game Shut Out Emmys 2025: What Happened?
In one of the most puzzling developments, Squid Game shut out Emmys 2025 despite its previous sweeping wins. While it garnered international acclaim and dominated award seasons in past years, this time, it failed to secure a single major nomination.
Many expected at least a nod for acting or direction, but the sequel series was perhaps too experimental for mainstream tastes. Vanity Fair speculates that the shift in cast and tone may have alienated voters, even as fans around the globe remained invested.
This omission wasn’t just surprising—it was jarring. Given the show’s past success, its complete exclusion is a story of how quickly Emmy trends can turn.
Handmaid’s Tale Snub Lead Actress: An Unexpected Turn
Another shock came with Handmaid’s Tale snub lead actress, as Elisabeth Moss was left out of the nominations despite a season full of intense emotional range. Citing E! Online, critics had widely expected her to be shortlisted, particularly given her character’s dramatic arc this season.
This snub has left fans confused, especially when considering how consistently Moss had been nominated in previous years. Many believe the Academy may be moving on from long-running series to highlight fresh talent.
However, Vulture suggests that this may not be a permanent departure, and Moss could return in the spotlight if future seasons evolve in direction or gain critical resurgence.
Uzo Aduba Surprise Nomination Sparks Reactions
In contrast, some surprise entries brought joy and intrigue, like the Uzo Aduba surprise nomination. Her performance in The Therapy Room was subtle yet powerful, gaining traction in the latter half of the eligibility period.
News.com.au highlights that while the show wasn’t a critical favorite overall, Aduba’s layered portrayal of a grief-stricken therapist was enough to impress voters. This nomination has been widely celebrated online, with many considering it a career-defining moment for the Emmy-winning actress.
Her unexpected presence in the nominee list shows that even lower-profile shows can still shine when a central performance is truly compelling.
Andor Acting Snubs 2025: Stellar Show, Overlooked Cast
Despite receiving some technical nominations, the cast of Andor was notably absent from major acting categories. These Andor acting snubs 2025 have reignited debates about genre bias within the Emmys.
As Los Angeles Times reports, Andor’s thoughtful writing and cinematic visuals were widely applauded, yet its lead and supporting actors were all left out. This omission reflects a long-standing pattern where sci-fi and fantasy series are often acknowledged for visuals but not for performances.
Vulture mentions that Diego Luna’s performance was particularly nuanced this season, and his exclusion feels especially unjustified. Fans are calling for greater consistency in how the Emmys evaluate genre shows.
Kathy Bates Oldest Lead Actress Nominee Still Going Strong
There were heartwarming moments, too. Kathy Bates oldest lead actress nominee status made headlines for all the right reasons. At 76, she proved that age is no barrier to delivering a commanding performance.
Her role in Autumn’s Trial was a masterclass in restraint and gravitas. According to WBAL, the nomination isn’t just a personal milestone for Bates—it’s a reminder of the enduring power of veteran talent in a youth-focused industry.
Audiences and critics alike have praised the nomination, calling it one of the most deserved nods of the season.
Most Shocking Emmy Snubs 2025 No One Saw Coming
Among the most shocking Emmy snubs 2025 was the total omission of Poker Face from major categories. After an acclaimed first season, expectations were sky-high. But the show received little recognition.
This caught both fans and industry insiders by surprise, especially since Natasha Lyonne’s performance had been considered a front-runner. WBAL points to internal politics or shifting voter preferences as possible explanations.
The list of other high-profile snubs includes Yellowjackets, Ted Lasso (in its final season), and Only Murders in the Building, all of which had strong fanbases but fewer nominations than expected.
Where to View the Full Nominee Breakdown
For those wanting a comprehensive view of the Emmy nominations 2025 full list, you can check the official details here. The full list helps paint a clearer picture of voting trends, genre biases, and shifting tastes within the Academy.
Midway through the awards race, platforms like Vulture, EW.com, and Vanity Fair are excellent resources to keep up with updates, reactions, and expert predictions.
They continue to offer detailed coverage that goes beyond the surface, dissecting what each nomination or omission might mean for the future of television.
Final Thoughts on 2025 Emmy Snubs and Surprises
The 2025 Emmy snubs and surprises represent more than just a set of wins and losses. They highlight the ever-changing tastes of voters and underscore how critical recognition in television continues to evolve.
Some actors and shows were robbed of their moment, while others earned it against all odds. What remains true each year is that no Emmy season passes without passionate discussion, surprise victories, and controversial exclusions.
From Severance dominating the field to Squid Game being shut out entirely, this year’s nominations tell a story as dramatic as any scripted series.
FAQs
Severance received the most nominations in major categories this year.
The follow-up series didn’t resonate as well with Emmy voters despite strong fan support.
Elisabeth Moss from The Handmaid’s Tale was unexpectedly left off the nomination list.
Kathy Bates, nominated at 76, is the oldest lead actress nominee this year.
Uzo Aduba’s nomination came unexpectedly but was widely praised.
