Triumphs in Television were on full display at the Creative Arts Emmy Awards on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. The event, a precursor to the Primetime Emmy Awards, celebrated the technical and artistic achievements that underpin television production. Julie Andrews, the satirical Apple TV+ series “The Studio,” and HBO’s limited series “The Penguin” emerged as leading winners, setting the stage for the main ceremony later this month, according to the Associated Press.
Creative Arts Emmys: A Night of Recognition
The Creative Arts Emmys serve a vital function in recognizing the foundational crafts and guest acting performances often overshadowed by the main Primetime Emmy Awards. As presenter Maya Rudolph noted, “This is that Emmys they couldn’t have the other Emmys without, cause nothing would get made.” Nearly 100 awards were distributed across two nights, celebrating the diverse talent involved in television production, as reported by WHIO-TV.
Julie Andrews’ Enduring Legacy
At 89 years old, Julie Andrews secured her third Emmy Award, winning Best Character Voice-Over Performance for her role in Netflix’s “Bridgerton.” This marks her first Emmy win since 2005, underscoring her enduring impact and talent in the entertainment industry. The Associated Press highlighted Andrews’ continued relevance and contribution to the world of voice acting and performance.
“The Studio’s” Dominance
Apple TV+’s Hollywood satire, “The Studio,” emerged as a dominant force, taking home nine trophies. These wins spanned various craft categories, including cinematography, production design, and casting. According to smdailyjournal.com, the series’ widespread technical and artistic excellence was a key factor in its success. Adam Newport-Berra, the show’s cinematographer, won for a meta episode titled “The Oner,” which recreated a long single shot on screen. Winners from “The Studio” frequently referenced “Sal Saperstein” in their acceptance speeches, a running gag from the show, as noted by LocalNews8.com.
“The Penguin’s” Technical Triumphs
HBO’s “The Penguin,” a top-nominated limited series, led in its genre categories, securing eight awards. The series was recognized for its achievements in technical fields such as prosthetic makeup and visual effects. Times Union reported that the intricate artistry involved in the production was a major factor in its recognition. The series’ strong showing underscores HBO’s commitment to high-quality, visually stunning productions.
Other Notable Winners
Besides the major wins for Andrews, “The Studio,” and “The Penguin,” other notable figures were also recognized at the Creative Arts Emmys. Julianne Nicholson won for Best Guest Actress in a Comedy for her role as “Dance Mom” on HBO Max’s “Hacks.” Bryan Cranston also secured a win in a guest acting category. Disney+’s “Andor” garnered four awards in drama categories, according to Sweden Herald.
Implications for the Primetime Emmy Awards
The strong performance of “The Studio” and “The Penguin” at the Creative Arts Emmys positions them as formidable contenders heading into the main Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony, scheduled to air live on CBS on September 14. The wins highlight the importance of technical and artistic excellence in television production. The recognition of talent both in front of and behind the camera sets the stage for what promises to be a highly competitive and exciting Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony, according to the Associated Press.
In conclusion, the Creative Arts Emmys celebrated the unsung heroes and technical brilliance that underpin television’s most captivating shows. With wins for Julie Andrews, “The Studio,” and “The Penguin,” the event underscored the industry’s commitment to excellence and innovation, setting the stage for the main Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony. The recognition of these achievements highlights the collaborative effort required to bring quality television to audiences worldwide.
