Top surprises from the 2025 Emmys

The medical drama "The Pitt" receiving 13 nominations was an unexpected development. It positioned the show as a dark horse contender against the heavily favored "Severance."

• Noah Wyle won best drama actor

The White Lotus was one of the most nominated shows at the 2025 Emmys, accumulating multiple nominations. Despite expectations, the series did not secure the anticipated awards, making it one of the night's surprises.

• Recognition for its original screenplay

• Critically acclaimed performances

• Unexpected success in key categories

• Solidified its popularity with awards

Tramell Tillman's win as Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for "Severance" marked a historic moment. He became the first Black actor to win in that category, a notable surprise.

• Made Emmy history

• Won his first Emmy

Hannah Einbinder's speech at the 2025 Emmy Awards was a surprise due to its political content, criticism of ICE, and support for Palestine, sparking controversy and criticism.

• Give a direct political speech

• Won a well-deserved Emmy

At 15, Owen Cooper became the youngest male Emmy acting winner in history for his role in "Adolescence". This was a significant and unexpected achievement.

• Became youngest-ever male Emmy winner

• Won the prize for Outstanding Supporting Actor

Javier Bardem caused a stir at the 2025 Emmy Awards by wearing a Palestinian headscarf and denouncing the genocide in Gaza, becoming one of the biggest surprises of the night for his political statement. His unexpected act transformed the red carpet into a space for protest.

Jeff Hiller's win for supporting actor in a comedy was a surprise victory. He beat out competitors like Harrison Ford, making it an unexpected upset.

• Won his first-ever Emmy

• Won Emmy for darling role in “Somebody Somewhere”

The Studio swept the 2025 Emmy Awards with 13 wins, including Best Comedy Series and Best Comedy Actor for Seth Rogen. Its success in the first season makes it one of the biggest surprises of the 2025 Emmys.

• It broke the record for the most wins for a comedy

Cristin Milioti won the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries for her outstanding portrayal of Sofia Falcone in "The Penguin." Her win was one of the night's biggest surprises, consolidating her talent and versatility as an actress.

• Talented actress

• Stunning performance as Sofia Falcone

• Hypnotic and fierce performance

Nate Bargatze's performance as host was a surprise. His hosting was a key element of the ceremony.

• Kept politics out of hosting gig

• Introduced a charity incentive