The Rising Stars and Shifts of the 77th Emmy Awards
The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards celebrated the achievements of rising talent shaping television. Yet despite these standout wins and nominees, this year also marked a decline in the overall number of people of color nominees compared to the past five years. Even with a lighter roster of diverse nominees, the stars still commanded the night from BLACKPINK’s Lisa’s red carpet moment to Hannah Einbinder’s buzz and Tramell Tillman’s steady shine. Celebrated at the industry’s highest level, the night’s accolades highlighted both the tremendous progress made and the challenges that still remain for lasting representation in Hollywood.
Golden Visibility
Lisa of BLACKPINK turned heads on the red carpet after arriving in a glamorous tulle blush-pink gown by Lever Couture commemorating her acting debut in HBO Max’s The White Lotus (2021). The third season of the series, which is set in Thailand, was up for 23 total nominations. While the pop-star-turned-actress wasn’t personally nominated, her presence marked a milestone crossover for Asian talent in western media. She had previously remarked on her role in an Instagram post, emphasizing the series’ importance in her career and cultural pride. “It was the greatest honor to be part of this show as my first acting gig alongside such incredible actors. And I’m so proud to be able to share my culture and show the beauty of Thailand to the world,” LISA wrote.
Meanwhile, Bowen Yang earned recognition as the only AAPI actor nominated in the acting categories this year. Although the comedian did not win for Saturday Night Live (1975) in Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, he acknowledged the significance of his nomination and hopes for continued greater representation for the Asian community. Yang has previously spoken of his disappointment at the Gold House’s One House Toast to the Emmys, “I found out today, I’m the only AAPI nominee in the acting categories this year, which does not give me any pride to say. I obviously have very complicated feelings about it. Things were so much better when ‘Shōgun’ was on. We miss you.” Yang’s comment underscored the lack of representation after only a year with Shōgun’s (2024) domination at the 76th Emmy Awards.
To Be Seen Is To Be Heard
The night’s most talked about moment came when Hannah Einbinder won Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for HBO Max’s Hacks (2021). Even through her emotional comments expressed her gratitude, the actress also took the chance in the spotlight to bring light to greater issues. Adorned with a red Artists4Ceasefire pin on her dress, she closed her speech with a powerful statement condemning recent actions of ICE and hopes for ceasefire in Gaza and Israel: “Go Birds, F*** ICE, and Free Palestine!”
Although bleeped on the broadcast, the uncut clip of Einbinder’s solidarity and stance quickly went viral online. Speaking to reporters backstage, she added her support for the Film Workers for Palestine boycott, saying it “does not boycott individuals, it only boycotts institutions that are directly complicit in the genocide.” The actress’s boldness echoes the changing tides that award shows are no longer just for entertainment but a chance for stars’ to use their voices when the world is watching.
The New Wave of History Breakers
Tramell Tillman shook up the night by becoming the first Black actor to win Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his performance in Apple TV+’s Severance (2022). His character Milchick enforces corporate control with a mix of menace and cheer, underscoring the show’s themes of power and identity. Tillman’s portrayal has stood out not only for its intensity but because it breaks the stereotype of what supporting characters of color are often boxed into. Notably the actor’s openness as a gay man adds another layer to the importance of this honor. Tillman’s win is not only a personal victory but represents overdue recognition, setting a precedent for the future of the award show.
Up next at just 15 years old, Owen Cooper was met by thunderous applause when he became the youngest-ever male actor to win an Emmy award. Cooper’s performance in Netflix’s Adolescence (2025) earned him Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited/Anthology Series or Movie. The young actor’s voice cracked as he expressed his awed and elated thanks, “But I think tonight proves that if you listen and you focus and you step outside your comfort zone, you can achieve, you can achieve anything in life.” Cooper’s victory proves that the industry is not only a domain for seasoned veterans but a landscape that is ready for the new generation to redefine storytelling.
The 2025 Emmys ceremony showcased this year’s finest and reflected a transition in the industry. The spotlight on both winners and nominees highlighted that Hollywood has become more global, more outspoken, and more willing to confront the world beyond the screen.
Congratulations to all the winners and nominees at the 77th Emmys Awards Ceremony!
Find the full list of winners here.
Want more ACT!ON content? Check out our First Impressions review of Disney+ and Hulu’s latest Korean drama, Tempest, here!
