Final Emmy predictions for 2025 highlight The Studio, Severance and Adolescence as front-runners, but surprise wins from The Pitt and other contenders could shake up the night.
As the 2025 Emmy Awards approach this Sunday, the buzz is building around a handful of shows expected to dominate the evening, but history tells us to prepare for a few curveballs. After all, last year’s ceremony saw Shōgun take home a record-breaking 18 trophies and The Bear earn 11 despite missing out on the top comedy prize.
This year, the comedy The Studio, the drama Severance and the limited series Adolescence are entering the night as clear favorites, but the door is open for a few surprising challengers, including The Pitt, which could upset Severance despite its staggering 27 nominations.
Comedy Categories: The Studio Eyes Records
Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg’s Hollywood satire The Studio already cleaned up at the Creative Arts Emmys, putting it just two wins away from the all-time comedy record. It’s the heavy favorite for Outstanding Comedy Series, and the predictions don’t stop there.
Seth Rogen himself is tipped for Lead Actor in a Comedy, while Catherine O’Hara is expected to win Supporting Actress, adding to her storied Emmy history. Ike Barinholtz could also walk away with Supporting Actor, further fueling The Studio’s record-breaking run.
The only major comedy category not pointing toward the Apple TV+ series? Lead Actress, where Jean Smart looks set to keep her streak alive for Hacks.
Drama Categories: Severance vs. The Pitt
On the drama side, Severance has history on its side with its mountain of nominations and Creative Arts wins. Still, many experts believe The Pitt, a late-season medical drama starring Noah Wyle, could sneak in for Outstanding Drama Series. If that happens, it would mark one of the biggest upsets of the night.
Noah Wyle himself is predicted to take Lead Actor, while Kathy Bates could surprise with Lead Actress for her return in Matlock. Meanwhile, Walton Goggins and Carrie Coon are favored to sweep the supporting categories for The White Lotus.
Limited Series: Adolescence Dominates
Netflix’s Adolescence is expected to be this year’s awards juggernaut. With Philip Barantini’s daring one-take directing and powerhouse performances from Stephen Graham, Owen Cooper, and Erin Doherty, the series is set to sweep its categories.
The only exception may come in Lead Actor, where Colin Farrell’s transformation in The Penguin is poised to edge out Stephen Graham. Michelle Williams is also predicted to triumph in Lead Actress for Dying for Sex.
Reality, Talk, and Variety: Familiar Names Return
Beyond scripted fare, The Traitors is primed to repeat as Outstanding Reality Competition, while the recently canceled The Late Show With Stephen Colbert is expected to finally score a win for Talk Series. Last Week Tonight With John Oliver should continue its decade-long streak in Writing for a Variety Series, while SNL50: The Anniversary Special looks unstoppable in the live variety special race.
Whether The Studio cements its place in history, Adolescence sweeps the limited categories, or The Pitt delivers a shocker, this year’s Emmys are guaranteed to bring both triumphs and twists.
