• 3 Key Takeaways from the 2025 Emmy Nominations:
• Major Snubs Spark Outrage – Squid Game, Diego Luna (Andor), and Elisabeth Moss (The Handmaid’s Tale) were shockingly left out, leaving fans furious.
• Surprise Nominations Steal the Show – Beyoncé’s NFL halftime show and Martin Scorsese’s first-ever acting nod were among the most unexpected inclusions.
• Voters Play It Safe (Again) – While Succession and The Bear dominated, critics argue the Emmys ignored fresh talent in favor of predictable favorites.

The Emmy nominations always bring a mix of joy, outrage, and utter bewilderment—and this year was no different. As the Television Academy unveiled its picks for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, some shows and stars celebrated while others were left staring at their phones in disbelief.

From shocking omissions to delightful surprises, this year’s list has sparked fierce debates online. Fans are furious over overlooked favorites, while a few unexpected nods—like Beyoncé and Martin Scorsese making the cut—have left jaws on the floor.

The Snubs That Hurt the Most

Squid Game’s Brutal Elimination

Netflix’s Squid Game took the world by storm, becoming one of the most talked-about series in years. Yet, despite its gripping second season, the show was completely shut out of the major categories. No Best Drama. No acting nods. Nothing.

Fans are calling it one of the biggest oversights in Emmy history. Social media erupted with outrage, with one user writing, “If Squid Game wasn’t worthy, what is?” Another added, “The Emmys just proved they’re more out of touch than we thought.”

Diego Luna’s Star Wars Snub

Diego Luna gave a powerhouse performance in Andor, delivering one of the most nuanced portrayals in the Star Wars universe. The show itself earned 14 nominations—more than its first season—yet Luna’s name was mysteriously missing.

Some are blaming category confusion, while others think voters simply dropped the ball. “How do you nominate the show but ignore its lead actor?” tweeted one frustrated fan. It’s a tough blow for Luna, who many believed was a lock for a nomination.

Elisabeth Moss’s Final Farewell Ignored

The Handmaid’s Tale wrapped up its harrowing journey this year, and Elisabeth Moss’s performance as June Osborne was as riveting as ever. Yet, the Emmys—which once showered the show with awards—completely overlooked her.

Given the show’s cultural impact and Moss’s consistently stellar work, the snub feels personal. “They rewarded her before, but now that the show’s ending, they just… move on?” one critic wrote. It’s a bitter end for a series that defined prestige TV for nearly a decade.

Natasha Lyonne and Jon Hamm Left Empty-Handed

Natasha Lyonne’s Poker Face was a critical darling, blending old-school detective charm with her signature wit. Yet, despite glowing reviews, the show—and Lyonne herself—were nowhere to be seen in the nominations.

Jon Hamm, meanwhile, had not one but two standout roles this year—in Your Friends & Neighbors and Landman—yet the TV Academy ignored both. After Mad Men, Hamm has become one of Hollywood’s most reliable stars, but the Emmys still aren’t giving him his due.

The Surprises That Stole the Show

Beyoncé’s Halftime Show Scores a Nomination

Who knew a Christmas Day NFL game would lead to an Emmy nomination? Beyoncé’s electrifying halftime performance for Netflix’s special broadcast earned her a nod for Outstanding Variety Special (Live).

Given that halftime shows rarely get Emmy love, this was a stunner. Fans are already joking that this might be the only trophy the NFL wins this year.

Martin Scorsese’s First Acting Nomination… Ever

Yes, you read that right. The legendary director, known for classics like Goodfellas and The Departed, just scored his first-ever Emmy nomination—for acting. His cameo in The Studio landed him a spot in the Guest Actor category.

At 81, Scorsese proves he’s still full of surprises. “Only Marty could get an acting nom before some of Hollywood’s biggest TV stars,” one fan quipped.

Harrison Ford Finally Gets His Due

After decades in Hollywood, Harrison Ford just earned his first Emmy nomination for Shrinking. It’s hard to believe the man behind Han Solo and Indiana Jones had never been recognized by the TV Academy before.

Better late than never—fans are thrilled, even if it took way too long.

The Public Backlash: Are the Emmys Out of Touch?

The reaction online has been brutal. Many are accusing the Emmys of favoring familiar names over fresh talent. Squid Game’s exclusion, in particular, has fans questioning whether the Academy even watches international shows.

Others argue that the nominations feel safe—rewarding the same shows (Succession, The Bear) while ignoring bold new voices. “How many times can we nominate the same people?” one viewer tweeted.

Then there’s the late-night controversy. Seth Meyers, a past nominee, was completely shut out, continuing a worrying trend of the Emmys sidelining traditional talk shows.

What Happens Next?

The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, hosted by Nate Bargatze, will air live on CBS on September 14. Will the winners reflect the nominations’ surprises—or will voters play it safe once again?

One thing’s for sure: The snubs will be talked about long after the trophies are handed out. And if the TV Academy doesn’t start recognizing the right talent, fans might just start tuning out for good.