The 77th Emmy Awards just wrapped up, and let’s just say, it was a night absolutely packed with ‘OMG!’ moments, record-breaking wins, and some truly unexpected triumphs that left us all gasping for more. Seriously, television’s biggest night delivered all the drama, comedy, and variety we could ever ask for, from the Peacock Theater in sunny L.A. to our screens coast-to-coast on CBS, and streaming live on Paramount+!
Nate Bargatze hosted the star-studded event, kicking things off with a hilarious skit about the invention of television, featuring some familiar faces from “Saturday Night Live” players. Bargatze also pledged a cool $100,000 to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, playfully warning winners he’d deduct from that amount for any acceptance speech that dared to go over its allotted time. Talk about keeping everyone on their toes!
But beyond the laughs and generous pledges, the real excitement was in who took home those shiny gold statues. From powerful limited series to laugh-out-loud comedies and gripping dramas, the competition was fierce, and the stories behind the wins are just as captivating as the shows themselves. Ready to dive into the absolute must-know highlights? Let’s get into it!
1. Adolescence’s Grand Sweep: Six Wins and Pure Dominance
Kicking things off with a bang, Netflix’s “Adolescence” wasn’t just a winner; it was a *phenomenon*, sweeping up a whopping six awards, including the coveted Best Limited or Anthology Series. This intense British drama, which centers on the compelling case of a teenage boy accused of murder, truly captivated both critics and audiences alike, proving that a powerful story can resonate deeply.
The series demonstrated an undeniable force throughout the night, with its intricate storytelling and superb performances being consistently recognized. Its victory in the Best Limited or Anthology Series category was a clear indicator of its overall quality and impact, setting a high bar for other contenders in what was a fiercely competitive field. It definitely left an indelible mark on this year’s awards.
“Adolescence” was recognized across multiple individual categories, cementing its status as the limited series to beat. This comprehensive acknowledgment underscores the collective brilliance that went into creating such a memorable and critically acclaimed production, making it one of the absolute standout triumphs of the 77th Emmys. Philip Barantini also won best directing for a limited or anthology series or movie for “Adolescence,” showcasing the visionary leadership behind the cameras.
2. Owen Cooper’s Historic Win: The Youngest Male Actor to Ever Triumph
Prepare to have your mind blown, because “Adolescence” wasn’t just collecting trophies; it was making history! Owen Cooper, starring in the same groundbreaking limited series, became the youngest-ever male winner in *any* acting category for his incredible supporting actor win in a limited or anthology series or movie. Talk about starting your career with a bang!
This wasn’t just a win; it was a moment that etched itself into the annals of Emmy history, highlighting a fresh talent who is clearly destined for great things. Cooper’s performance evidently resonated deeply with the voters, showcasing a remarkable maturity and depth for his age, which truly set him apart in a category brimming with seasoned performers.
His victory serves as a powerful reminder that talent knows no age limit, and that groundbreaking performances can emerge from unexpected places. It’s an inspiring story for aspiring actors everywhere and a fantastic highlight from a night that celebrated both established legends and rising stars. What an achievement!
3. Stephen Graham’s Triple Threat: Actor, Writer, and Emmy Magnet
The star power of “Adolescence” continued to shine brightly with Stephen Graham, who not only executive produced and starred in the series but also clinched the award for Best Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. But wait, there’s more! Graham wasn’t done yet, picking up a third Emmy alongside Jack Thorne for Best Writing for a Limited or Anthology Series.
It’s truly remarkable to see an artist excel across so many crucial facets of a production, from being the face of the series to shaping its narrative and performing its lead role with such distinction. His ability to deliver a nuanced and compelling performance, while also contributing significantly to the intricate script, is a testament to his multifaceted talent and dedication.
This kind of recognition, spanning both acting and writing, is a rare feat at the Emmys and underscores the profound impact Graham had on “Adolescence.” He truly embodies the spirit of a creative powerhouse, and his multiple wins are a clear reflection of his immense contributions to one of the night’s biggest success stories. Erin Doherty also won best supporting actress for her role in the show, rounding out a truly dominant acting display.
4. Seth Rogen’s “The Studio” Domination: A Comedy Series for the Ages
Moving from intense drama to laugh-out-loud comedy, Seth Rogen’s “The Studio” absolutely crushed it, taking home four Emmys and making a huge splash as the Best Comedy Series! Rogen himself was a whirlwind of talent, winning Best Actor in a Comedy Series, and also sharing wins for Best Directing (with Evan Goldberg) and Best Writing honors (with Goldberg, Peter Huyck, Alex Gregory, and Frida Perez).
“The Studio,” a freshman show, proved it had the magic touch, demonstrating an exceptional blend of humor, sharp writing, and stellar performances that resonated deeply with Emmy voters. Its victory in the fiercely competitive Best Comedy Series category firmly established it as a fresh and exciting voice in television, promising many more laughs to come. It also broke a record for the most wins by a comedy for a single series, with 13 trophies including those it won at the Creative Arts Emmys.
Rogen’s personal haul of awards truly highlights his expansive creative influence, not only as a charismatic lead actor but also as a driving force behind the camera and in the writers’ room. This comprehensive recognition for “The Studio” signifies a truly collaborative and brilliant effort that captured the comedic zeitgeist, making it one of the most talked-about wins of the night.
5. “The Pitt” Takes Top Drama Honors: Gripping Storytelling Rewarded
When it came to drama, HBO Max’s first-year medical drama, “The Pitt,” absolutely stole the show, collecting the top prize for Best Drama Series! This gripping series certainly delivered on its promise of intense storytelling and compelling character arcs, making it an undeniable standout in a category filled with heavy hitters like “The Last of Us” and “Severance.”
The win for “The Pitt” was further cemented by Noah Wyle, who took home the Emmy for Best Actor in a Drama Series for his powerful performance. His portrayal clearly resonated with the judges, bringing depth and authenticity to a role that was both challenging and incredibly rewarding to watch, solidifying the series’ strong acting credentials.
This double victory for “The Pitt” — both as a series and for its lead actor — underscores the show’s exceptional quality and its ability to captivate audiences with its nuanced narratives and strong ensemble. It truly marked a triumphant arrival for a freshman medical drama, proving that fresh narratives can still rise to the top of television’s most competitive landscape.
6. Katherine LaNasa’s Surprise Upset: Beating Out the “White Lotus” Stars
Talk about a jaw-dropping moment! In one of the night’s biggest surprises, Katherine LaNasa pulled off an incredible upset, winning Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role in “The Pitt.” And get this: she beat out a group that included four powerhouse stars from the critically acclaimed “The White Lotus”! Seriously, who saw that coming?!
This victory truly sent ripples through the Peacock Theater, showcasing that sometimes the unexpected performance can shine brightest and capture the hearts of the voters. LaNasa’s win is a testament to her impactful portrayal and the compelling nature of “The Pitt,” proving that even against formidable competition, a truly standout performance can break through.
It’s these kinds of surprise wins that make the Emmy Awards so exciting and unpredictable, reminding us that every nomination is a chance for a new star to rise or a quiet performance to receive its well-deserved moment in the spotlight. This was definitely a highlight that had everyone buzzing and checking their prediction ballots twice!
7. Jeff Hiller’s Shocking Comedy Win: Outshining a Hollywood Legend
If you thought the surprises were over, think again! Jeff Hiller delivered another incredible upset, snagging the award for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his work in “Somebody Somewhere.” And here’s the kicker: he beat out none other than Harrison Ford, who was nominated for his very *first* Emmy! You heard that right – the iconic Han Solo himself!
Hiller’s win is a fantastic story of an outstanding performance getting its due recognition, even when up against a true Hollywood legend. His work in “Somebody Somewhere” clearly struck a chord with the Emmy voters, highlighting the nuanced comedic brilliance that often goes underappreciated but is utterly essential to a show’s success.
This moment was a perfect example of the Emmys celebrating both established talent and the quiet brilliance that can emerge from unexpected corners of the industry. It was a joyful and surprising victory that added another layer of excitement and unpredictability to an already thrilling night, proving that anything can happen on television’s biggest stage!
8. The Late Show With Stephen Colbert: A Bittersweet Victory
Get ready for some serious feels, because ‘The Late Show With Stephen Colbert’ snagged the Emmy for Best Talk Series! Now, if that isn’t a mic-drop moment, we don’t know what is. The win arrived with a bittersweet twist, coming just two months after CBS had announced the series was getting canceled. Talk about going out with a bang, right?
Seriously, the atmosphere must have been absolutely electric! Stephen and his entire team were met with a roaring standing ovation, and the crowd was literally chanting “Stephen! Stephen!” as they made their way to the stage. It was a powerful, emotional display of support from his peers, a testament to the show’s enduring impact despite the looming end.
This Emmy win, in light of the show’s cancellation “amid CBS funding disputes,” truly underscores the quality and influence Stephen Colbert and his crew have maintained. It’s a reminder that even when the curtain is about to fall, brilliance and dedication can still shine through and be celebrated on television’s biggest night.
9. “Severance” Stars Shine Bright: Historic Wins for Tillman and Lower
Next up, let’s talk about Apple TV+’s sci-fi masterpiece, “Severance,” which brought home some serious acting gold! Tramell Tillman made Emmy history, becoming “the first Black man to win best supporting actor in a drama series” for his compelling role. This is a monumental achievement, folks, and definitely a moment to remember from the 77th Emmys!
But wait, there’s more amazing talent from Lumon Industries getting their well-deserved recognition! Tillman’s fantastic co-star, Britt Lower, also took home a shiny gold statue, being named “best actress in a drama series.” Her nuanced performance in the gripping series clearly resonated with voters, making her a standout in a super competitive category.
These dual acting triumphs for “Severance” really highlight the show’s phenomenal cast and its ability to craft deeply impactful performances. It’s a testament to the series’ captivating storytelling and its commitment to showcasing incredible talent, proving once again that “Severance” is a force to be reckoned with in the drama landscape.
10. “Hacks” Queens Reign Supreme: Smart and Einbinder Take Comedy Acting Honors
If you thought “Hacks” was done collecting trophies, think again! The HBO Max darling continued its winning streak in the comedy categories, with the one and only Jean Smart taking home “the best actress in a comedy award.” Seriously, does anyone do it better? Her performance is consistently phenomenal, and this win just solidifies her icon status!
And the good news kept rolling for the dynamic duo from “Hacks”! Jean Smart’s brilliant castmate, Hannah Einbinder, also scored a huge win, clinching the award for “best supporting actress in a comedy series.” It’s a wonderful recognition of their incredible on-screen chemistry and the strength of the show’s hilarious and heartfelt ensemble.
These combined victories for “Hacks” actors are a clear indicator of the show’s undeniable charm and sharp writing. It’s no surprise that Emmy voters continue to be captivated by the series’ unique blend of generational humor and profound storytelling, making it a truly beloved and celebrated fixture in the comedy world.
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11. Cristin Milioti Claims Lead Actress Emmy for “The Penguin”
Shifting gears to the intense world of limited series, we’ve got to give a huge shout-out to Cristin Milioti for her fantastic win! She took home the Emmy for “best actress in a limited or anthology series or movie” for her standout performance in “The Penguin.” Talk about making a splash in Gotham City!
This category was absolutely stacked with incredible talent, including nominees like Cate Blanchett for “Disclaimer,” Meghann Fahy for “Sirens,” Rashida Jones for “Black Mirror,” and Michelle Williams for “Dying for Sex.” For Milioti to emerge victorious against such powerhouse actresses truly speaks volumes about the impact of her portrayal and her captivating presence.
“The Penguin” has been buzz-worthy, and Milioti’s win solidifies its critical acclaim, not just for its gritty narrative but also for its exceptional acting. It’s clear that her performance brought an unforgettable depth to the series, making this a truly well-deserved and exciting win for the freshman show.
12. “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver” Continues Its Emmy Reign**Could it be anyone else? The always brilliant “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver” proved its consistent excellence yet again, taking home not one, but two huge Emmys! The show won “the Emmy for best writing for a variety series as well as the award for best scripted variety series.” John Oliver is basically an Emmy magnet at this point, and we are absolutely here for it!
Could it be anyone else? The always brilliant “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver” proved its consistent excellence yet again, taking home not one, but two huge Emmys! The show won “the Emmy for best writing for a variety series as well as the award for best scripted variety series.” John Oliver is basically an Emmy magnet at this point, and we are absolutely here for it!
What makes these wins even more impressive is that “Last Week Tonight” beat out the iconic “Saturday Night Live” in both of those categories. That’s right, the long-running comedy institution had to concede to Oliver’s sharp wit and incisive commentary, a true testament to the consistent quality and relevance of his show’s weekly deep dives.
John Oliver and his incredible team continue to deliver a blend of humor, investigative journalism, and biting social critique that consistently captivates audiences and critics alike. Their ability to make complex issues entertaining and digestible, while still holding power accountable, ensures their well-deserved place at the top of the variety series ladder.
Read more about: Owen Cooper Makes Emmy History: “Adolescence” Star Becomes Youngest Male Acting Winner at 77th Primetime Emmys
13. “SNL50: The Anniversary Special” Caps Off a Legendary Night
And last, but certainly not least, let’s talk about a true television milestone! “SNL50: The Anniversary Special” was rightfully honored, prevailing in the “best variety special (live)” category. It was an unforgettable night filled with legendary sketches, celebrity cameos, and a whole lot of nostalgia that celebrated half a century of laughter.
This win isn’t just for one special night; it adds another incredible chapter to the show’s already monumental history. With this Emmy, “SNL” now boasts an astonishing “112 wins,” and the mastermind behind it all, Lorne Michaels, has personally accumulated “22.” That’s a legacy that truly speaks for itself, solidifying its place in the annals of television.
“Saturday Night Live” has been a cultural touchstone for generations, constantly evolving while staying true to its comedic roots. This anniversary special, and its well-deserved Emmy, is a vibrant reminder of its enduring impact, its ability to bring us together, and its unparalleled contribution to the world of live entertainment. Here’s to another 50 years (we hope!).
Well, that’s a wrap on our deep dive into the 77th Emmy Awards! What an absolutely wild and wonderful night it was, packed with everything from historic wins and shocking upsets to emotional tributes and triumphant returns. From the gripping dramas and hilarious comedies to the captivating limited series and reality competitions, this year’s Emmys truly celebrated the best of television, reminding us all why we love getting lost in these incredible stories and the brilliant minds that bring them to life. It was a night of pure magic, proving that the small screen continues to deliver big moments and unforgettable entertainment!
