Several of television’s leading stars used the stage and the red carpet at this year’s Emmy Awards to speak out for Palestinians and against what they described as genocide in Gaza, while the evening also recognised outstanding performances with Netflix’s Adolescence dominating the awards and 15-year-old Owen Cooper becoming the youngest ever winner of an Emmy.
Actors Hannah Einbinder, Javier Bardem, Meg Stalter and others made visible political statements during the ceremony, as Bardem appeared in a keffiyeh and spoke of Israel’s conduct in Gaza, while Einbinder wore the Artists4Ceasefire pin and later used her speech to link her Jewish identity with the need to distinguish Judaism from the state of Israel.
Stalter carried a bag marked with a ceasefire slogan, and several other nominees and attendees joined them in wearing the now-familiar pin calling for an immediate halt to hostilities. These actions coincided with their participation in the Film Workers for Palestine pledge, which rejects collaboration with Israeli film institutions alleged to be complicit in violence, adding to a growing cultural boycott movement supported by thousands in the industry.
While the political interventions drew attention, the Emmys themselves highlighted creative achievements across television. Netflix’s Adolescence, which has become the platform’s second most-watched series ever, won six awards, including best limited series, directing and writing, and also swept the acting categories.
Owen Cooper, who played a teenage boy entangled in a disturbing storyline about online incel culture and violence, made history as the youngest ever Emmy winner at 15, while Erin Doherty was also honoured for her role in the show. Stephen Graham achieved a double triumph as both lead actor and writer for the series, surpassing established stars such as Colin Farrell and Jake Gyllenhaal.
In comedy, Apple TV+’s The Studio, a satirical look at Hollywood itself, broke records by becoming the most decorated comedy in a single year, collecting 13 trophies across the main and Creative Arts ceremonies. Seth Rogen led the haul with awards for acting, writing and directing, while the series itself was crowned best comedy.
Medical drama The Pitt also earned major recognition, taking best drama series and securing acting wins for Noah Wyle, who finally achieved Emmy success after years of nominations, and Katherine LaNasa, who emerged as a surprise winner. Meanwhile, Jean Smart continued her dominance in comedy with another victory for Hacks, and her co-star Hannah Einbinder added her own first win to the list of accolades.