2025 Emmy Nominations: ‘Adolescence’ Breakout Star Owen Cooper May Make Awards History

The 2025 Emmy nominations are finally out, and this year is shaping up to be one of the most exciting, competitive, and unpredictable awards seasons in recent memory. Apple TV+ has made a powerful impression, with Severance leading all shows at 27 nominations, followed closely by The Studio with 23. But it’s a 15-year-old British newcomer, Owen Cooper, who’s stealing headlines for his groundbreaking nod in Adolescence, Netflix’s haunting limited series about teenage identity and accountability.

Severance and The Studio Dominate the Field

Fans of Severance had to wait nearly three years for its second season, but the wait clearly paid off. With 27 nominations across multiple categories, the show has cemented itself as one of the defining dramas of the decade. Adam Scott and Britt Lower both earned lead acting nominations for their dual performances as work-life-separated characters, while Tramell Tillman, Patricia Arquette, and John Turturro scored nods in supporting categories. Ben Stiller also picked up a directing nomination for the season finale.

Meanwhile, The Studio, a sharp satire on Hollywood and streaming culture, has come out swinging in its first season. With 23 nominations, it has outpaced seasoned favorites like The Bear (13 nominations) and Hacks (14 nominations). Seth Rogen leads the cast with a nod for best actor in a comedy, while Catherine O’Hara, Kathryn Hahn, and Ike Barinholtz represent a strong supporting ensemble.

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The Penguin and Netflix’s Powerful Entry: Adolescence

HBO’s The Penguin, spun out of the Batman universe, is also a major player this year with 24 nominations. Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti both earned lead acting nods, and the show dominated the limited series category.

But it’s Adolescence—Netflix’s emotionally charged limited series—that may be the true standout of the year. With 13 nominations including Outstanding Limited Series, Best Actor for Stephen Graham, and Best Writing for Jack Thorne, the show has struck a powerful chord both critically and culturally. The series, which tackles toxic masculinity and the complexities of teenage psychology in the digital age, has even been added to the school curriculum in both the UK and France.

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Owen Cooper’s Historic Nomination

At just 15, Owen Cooper has become one of the youngest actors ever nominated for an Emmy. He plays Jamie, a 13-year-old boy accused of a horrifying crime, in Adolescence. The performance is raw, disturbing, and unforgettable. If Cooper wins on 14 September, he will officially become the youngest male Emmy winner in an acting category. It’s a big milestone—and one that feels well-earned for the breakout star.

Cooper is nominated in the Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie category, facing off against Ashley Walters, also from Adolescence, as well as Javier Bardem (Monsters: The Lyle And Erik Menendez Story), Rob Delaney (Dying For Sex), Bill Camp, and Peter Sarsgaard (Presumed Innocent). That’s tough competition for any actor, let alone a teenager making his first major appearance.

Adolescence Cast Shines Across the Board

Beyond Cooper, Adolescence has a powerful showing in supporting categories. Christine Tremarco and Erin Doherty both earned nominations for Best Supporting Actress in a Limited Series. Their portrayals of maternal and institutional figures surrounding Jamie’s case add emotional weight to every scene.

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Stephen Graham’s lead role as Jamie’s troubled father has also earned widespread acclaim. Graham, known for his gritty performances in British dramas, delivers one of the most moving portrayals of parental despair in recent TV memory.

Complete Standouts and Surprises This Year

Here are just a few other notable nominations and highlights:

• The Last Of Us earned nods for Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, and an impressive lineup of guest stars including Kaitlyn Dever and Catherine O’Hara.
• The White Lotus continues to dominate ensemble categories with multiple acting nominations for both supporting and guest roles.
• The Bear and Shrinking remain strong contenders in the comedy realm, with nominations for Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edebiri, Jason Segel, and Harrison Ford.
• Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy leads the TV Movie category, while reality hits like The Traitors and Top Chef are back in the running for competition program.

Will Owen Cooper Make Emmy History?

The Emmy Awards have long been known for shaking things up and recognizing fresh talent, and this year’s lineup proves just that. If Owen Cooper takes home the statue, it won’t just be a personal victory—it’ll signal a new era of recognition for young actors taking on bold, socially relevant roles.

With its poignant narrative, impeccable writing, and standout performances, Adolescence is more than just a series. It’s a statement. And come 14 September, it might just walk away with one of the night’s biggest headlines.

2025 Emmy Awards Details

The 2025 Emmy Awards will be held in Los Angeles on 14 September. As always, we’ll be covering the winners, the red carpet looks, and the biggest surprises of the night. But no matter who takes the stage, it’s safe to say this year’s ceremony will be remembered for breakout performances and the powerful rise of Adolescence.

FAQs

Who is Owen Cooper from Adolescence?
Owen Cooper is a 15-year-old British actor nominated for an Emmy for his role in Netflix’s Adolescence. He plays Jamie, a 13-year-old accused of a serious crime. His nomination makes him one of the youngest ever recognized by the Academy.

How many nominations did Severance get at the 2025 Emmys?
Severance leads with 27 nominations, the most of any show this year.

What is the show Adolescence about?
Adolescence is a limited series that explores toxic masculinity, social media influence, and the psychological complexities of youth. It has been critically praised and is now part of the educational curriculum in the UK and France.

When are the 2025 Emmys?
The 2025 Emmy Awards will take place on 14 September in Los Angeles.

Which streaming platforms led the 2025 Emmy nominations?
Apple TV+ dominated with Severance and The Studio. Netflix made a major splash with Adolescence, while HBO secured a strong presence with The Penguin.