Daytime Emmy Awards 2025: Full Nominees List, Predictions & Analysis

Daytime Emmy Awards 2025: A Comprehensive Guide to the Nominees

The anticipation is building for the 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, celebrating the best in daytime television. As we eagerly await the ceremony, this comprehensive guide provides a detailed look at the nominees across all categories, offering insightful analysis and predictions.

When and Where to Watch the Daytime Emmy Awards 2025

While the exact date and broadcast details for the Daytime Emmy Awards 2025 are typically announced closer to the event, keep an eye on the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) official website. The ceremony is usually broadcast in early June and streamed on various platforms. Check your local listings for accurate broadcast information.

This year, industry experts anticipate a diverse range of talent being recognized, including actors, writers, directors, and production teams from daytime dramas, talk shows, game shows, children's programming, and more. Let's dive into the potential nominees and explore the landscape of daytime television.

Outstanding Drama Series

This is arguably the most prestigious category, recognizing the overall excellence of a daytime drama. The nomination process is rigorous, with numerous episodes submitted for consideration.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Young and the Restless (CBS)
• General Hospital (ABC)
• Days of Our Lives (NBC/Peacock)
• The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)

Analysis: The Young and the Restless and General Hospital consistently deliver high-quality storylines and performances, making them strong contenders. Days of Our Lives, now streaming on Peacock, has been praised for its bold creative choices, while The Bold and the Beautiful continues to captivate audiences with its signature romance and fashion. Keep an eye out for any potential surprises from other daytime dramas as well.

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series

This category honors the leading men who bring depth and complexity to their roles. The competition is always fierce, with seasoned veterans and rising stars vying for recognition.

• Potential Nominees:
• Jason Thompson (Billy Abbott, The Young and the Restless)
• Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos, General Hospital)
• Eric Martsolf (Brady Black, Days of Our Lives)
• Thorsten Kaye (Ridge Forrester, The Bold and the Beautiful)
• Peter Bergman (Jack Abbott, The Young and the Restless)

Analysis: Maurice Benard is a perennial favorite, consistently delivering powerful performances as Sonny Corinthos. Jason Thompson has also earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of Billy Abbott. Eric Martsolf continues to impress with his work as Brady Black. Peter Bergman always a solid contendor. Thorsten Kaye brings a certain weight to Ridge Forrester.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series

The leading ladies of daytime dramas consistently deliver compelling performances, often portraying strong, resilient characters. This category celebrates their talent and dedication.

• Potential Nominees:
• Sharon Case (Sharon Newman, The Young and the Restless)
• Cynthia Watros (Nina Reeves, General Hospital)
• Deidre Hall (Marlena Evans, Days of Our Lives)
• Katherine Kelly Lang (Brooke Logan, The Bold and the Beautiful)
• Laura Wright (Carly Corinthos, General Hospital)

Analysis: Sharon Case consistently delivers strong performances as Sharon Newman, while Cynthia Watros has brought depth and complexity to the role of Nina Reeves. Deidre Hall is a daytime legend, and Katherine Kelly Lang continues to be a fan favorite. Laura Wright has solidified herself as a powerhouse, captivating audiences with her portrayal of Carly Corinthos.

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Supporting actors often play crucial roles in advancing storylines and providing emotional support. This category recognizes their invaluable contributions.

• Potential Nominees:
• Bryton James (Devon Hamilton, The Young and the Restless)
• Steve Burton (Jason Morgan, General Hospital)
• James Reynolds (Abe Carver, Days of Our Lives)
• Don Diamont (Bill Spencer, The Bold and the Beautiful)

Analysis: Bryton James continues to impress as Devon Hamilton, while the return of Steve Burton to *General Hospital* has undoubtedly created a buzz. James Reynolds is a beloved figure in daytime television, and Don Diamont consistently delivers a memorable performance as Bill Spencer.

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

The supporting actresses of daytime dramas bring a wealth of talent and experience to their roles, often delivering memorable and impactful performances.

• Potential Nominees:
• Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea Lawson, The Young and the Restless)
• Eden McCoy (Josslyn Jacks, General Hospital)
• Suzanne Rogers (Maggie Horton, Days of Our Lives)
• Jacqueline MacInnes Wood (Steffy Forrester, The Bold and the Beautiful)
• Kimberlin Brown (Sheila Carter, *The Bold and the Beautiful*)

Analysis: Melissa Claire Egan is a consistent performer, while Eden McCoy has grown into a talented young actress. Suzanne Rogers is a daytime icon, and Jacqueline MacInnes Wood continues to shine as Steffy Forrester. Kimberlin Brown has revitalized her portrayal of Sheila Carter.

Outstanding Younger Performer in a Drama Series

This category recognizes the rising stars of daytime dramas, showcasing their talent and potential.

• Potential Nominees:
• Victoria Justice (Lola Alvarez, The Young and the Restless)
• Avery Kristen Pohl (Esme Prince, General Hospital)
• Carson Boatman (Johnny DiMera, Days of Our Lives)
• Henry Joseph Samiri (Douglas Forrester, The Bold and the Beautiful)

Analysis: Victoria Justice and other young actors are showcasing the future of daytime drama. Avery Kristen Pohl's portrayal of Esme Prince has been a standout, while Carson Boatman and Henry Joseph Samiri continue to impress with their performances.

Outstanding Writing Team for a Drama Series

The writing team is the backbone of any successful drama, crafting compelling storylines and memorable dialogue. This category recognizes their creative efforts.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Young and the Restless (CBS)
• General Hospital (ABC)
• Days of Our Lives (NBC/Peacock)
• The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)

Analysis: All four major daytime dramas have strong writing teams, and each has the potential to be nominated. The storylines and dialogue are critical factors in determining the nominees.

Outstanding Directing Team for a Drama Series

The directing team is responsible for bringing the scripts to life, creating visually engaging and emotionally resonant episodes. This category recognizes their artistic vision.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Young and the Restless (CBS)
• General Hospital (ABC)
• Days of Our Lives (NBC/Peacock)
• The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)

Analysis: The directing teams of all four major daytime dramas are highly skilled, and each has the potential to be nominated. The visual storytelling and emotional impact of the episodes are key factors.

Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show

This category celebrates the talk shows that provide engaging conversations, celebrity interviews, and entertaining segments.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Kelly Clarkson Show (NBC)
• Live with Kelly and Mark (ABC)
• The Drew Barrymore Show (Syndicated)
• The Jennifer Hudson Show (Syndicated)

Analysis: The Kelly Clarkson Show has consistently earned critical acclaim, while Live with Kelly and Mark remains a daytime staple. The Drew Barrymore Show has carved out a unique niche with its positive and uplifting content, and The Jennifer Hudson Show has quickly gained popularity.

Outstanding Informative Talk Show

This category recognizes talk shows that provide valuable information and insights on a variety of topics.

• Potential Nominees:
• Today with Hoda & Jenna (NBC)
• GMA3: What You Need to Know (ABC)
• The Doctors (Syndicated)
• Tamron Hall (Syndicated)

Analysis: Today with Hoda & Jenna offers a mix of news and lifestyle content, while GMA3: What You Need to Know focuses on current events. The Doctors provides expert medical advice, and Tamron Hall tackles timely and relevant issues.

Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host

This category honors the hosts who bring charisma, wit, and intelligence to their talk shows.

• Potential Nominees:
• Kelly Clarkson (The Kelly Clarkson Show)
• Kelly Ripa & Mark Consuelos (Live with Kelly and Mark)
• Drew Barrymore (The Drew Barrymore Show)
• Jennifer Hudson (The Jennifer Hudson Show)

Analysis: Kelly Clarkson is known for her infectious energy and genuine connection with guests, while Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos have a natural chemistry. Drew Barrymore brings a unique perspective to her show, and Jennifer Hudson is a charismatic and engaging host.

Outstanding Informative Talk Show Host

This category recognizes the hosts who provide insightful and informative commentary on a variety of topics.

• Potential Nominees:
• Hoda Kotb & Jenna Bush Hager (Today with Hoda & Jenna)
• Amy Robach & T.J. Holmes (GMA3: What You Need to Know)
• Various Hosts (The Doctors)
• Tamron Hall (Tamron Hall)

Analysis: Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager have a warm and engaging dynamic, while Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes offer insightful analysis of current events. Tamron Hall is known for her thoughtful and in-depth interviews.

Outstanding Game Show

This category celebrates the game shows that provide entertaining and engaging competition.

• Potential Nominees:
• Jeopardy! (Syndicated)
• Wheel of Fortune (Syndicated)
• Family Feud (Syndicated)
• Let's Make a Deal (CBS)

Analysis: Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune are iconic game shows that continue to captivate audiences, while Family Feud offers a fun and engaging format. Let's Make a Deal is a classic game show with a unique twist.

Outstanding Game Show Host

This category honors the hosts who bring energy, wit, and enthusiasm to their game shows.

• Potential Nominees:
• Ken Jennings (Jeopardy!)
• Pat Sajak (Wheel of Fortune)
• Steve Harvey (Family Feud)
• Wayne Brady (Let's Make a Deal)

Analysis: Ken Jennings has proven to be a worthy successor to Alex Trebek, while Pat Sajak is a beloved figure in daytime television. Steve Harvey brings his unique brand of humor to Family Feud, and Wayne Brady is a dynamic and engaging host.

Outstanding Culinary Program

This category celebrates the culinary programs that inspire and educate viewers about food and cooking.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Kitchen (Food Network)
• Valerie's Home Cooking (Food Network)
• Barefoot Contessa: Cook Like a Pro (Food Network)
• Guy's Ranch Kitchen (Food Network)

Analysis: The Kitchen offers a variety of recipes and cooking tips, while Valerie's Home Cooking focuses on simple and delicious meals. Barefoot Contessa: Cook Like a Pro provides expert cooking advice, and Guy's Ranch Kitchen features fun and flavorful recipes.

Outstanding Lifestyle Program

This category recognizes the lifestyle programs that provide viewers with inspiration and information on a variety of topics.

• Potential Nominees:
• Rachael Ray (Syndicated)
• The Pioneer Woman (Food Network)
• Property Brothers: Forever Home (HGTV)
• Queer Eye (Netflix)

Analysis: Rachael Ray offers a mix of cooking and lifestyle content, while The Pioneer Woman focuses on family and food. Property Brothers: Forever Home helps families create their dream homes, and Queer Eye provides makeovers and life advice.

Outstanding Travel, Adventure and Nature Program

This category celebrates programs that explore the world's diverse landscapes and cultures.

• Potential Nominees:
• Wild Kratts (PBS Kids)
• Jack Hanna's Into the Wild (Syndicated)
• Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin (ABC)
• The Zimmern List (Discovery+)

Analysis: Wild Kratts educates children about animals and conservation, while Jack Hanna's Into the Wild explores the world's wildlife. Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin delves into the mysteries of the ocean, and The Zimmern List explores the world through food.

Outstanding Children's Program

This category recognizes programs that provide engaging and educational content for children.

• Potential Nominees:
• Sesame Street (HBO Max)
• Blue's Clues & You! (Nickelodeon)
• Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood (PBS Kids)
• The Chicken Squad (Disney Junior)

Analysis: Sesame Street is a classic children's program that continues to educate and entertain, while Blue's Clues & You! offers interactive learning. Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood teaches valuable life lessons, and The Chicken Squad promotes teamwork and problem-solving.

Outstanding Animated Children's Program

This category celebrates animated programs that provide engaging and entertaining content for children.

• Potential Nominees:
• Snoopy Presents: For Auld Lang Syne (Apple TV+)
• The Cuphead Show! (Netflix)
• Curious George (Peacock)
• Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum (PBS Kids)

Analysis: Snoopy Presents: For Auld Lang Syne brings heartwarming holiday cheer, while The Cuphead Show! offers a fast-paced and visually stunning experience. Curious George continues to delight young viewers with its charming stories, and Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum inspires children to learn about history.

Outstanding Preschool Children’s Program

This category celebrates shows designed for the youngest viewers, focusing on early learning and development.

• Potential Nominees:
• Sesame Street (HBO Max)
• Blue's Clues & You! (Nickelodeon)
• Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood (PBS Kids)
• Mickey Mouse Funhouse (Disney Junior)

Analysis: *Sesame Street* continues its legacy of early childhood education, *Blue's Clues & You!* engages preschoolers with interactive puzzles, *Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood* teaches emotional intelligence, and *Mickey Mouse Funhouse* uses the beloved characters to foster imaginative play.

Outstanding Special Class Daytime Animated Program

Recognizing exceptional animated content beyond the typical children's series, often focusing on unique storytelling or artistic styles.

• Potential Nominees:
• Animaniacs (Hulu)
• Star Trek: Lower Decks (Paramount+)
• Harley Quinn (HBO Max)

Analysis: *Animaniacs* revives the classic cartoon antics with a modern sensibility, *Star Trek: Lower Decks* offers a comedic take on the Star Trek universe through animation, and *Harley Quinn* delivers adult-oriented animation with sharp humor and complex characters.

Outstanding Daytime Special

This category honors exceptional one-time events or limited series that air during the daytime.

• Potential Nominees:
• Various Holiday Specials (Hallmark Channel, Lifetime)
• Documentary Specials (PBS, Syndicated)
• Awards Show Pre-Shows (E!, Access Hollywood)

Analysis: This category is highly variable depending on the year's offerings. Holiday specials from Hallmark and Lifetime are common contenders, as are documentary specials that address relevant topics. Awards show pre-shows also vie for recognition.

Outstanding Short Form Program

Celebrating excellence in short-form content designed for digital platforms or smaller segments within a larger show.

• Potential Nominees:
• Web Series (Various Platforms)
• Digital Content from Talk Shows (YouTube, Social Media)
• Educational Shorts (PBS Kids, YouTube Kids)

Analysis: The rise of digital content has made this category more competitive. Nominees could include well-produced web series, engaging digital content from talk shows that go beyond the broadcast, or educational shorts designed to entertain and inform.

Outstanding Music Direction and Composition for a Drama Series

Recognizing the vital role of music in enhancing the emotional impact and storytelling of daytime dramas.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Young and the Restless (CBS)
• General Hospital (ABC)
• Days of Our Lives (NBC/Peacock)
• The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)

Analysis: All four major daytime dramas utilize music extensively to underscore dramatic moments and enhance the viewing experience. The nominees will likely be chosen based on the originality, effectiveness, and overall quality of their musical scores.

Outstanding Lighting Direction

Celebrating the technical skill and artistic vision of lighting directors who create atmosphere and enhance the visual storytelling of daytime programs.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Young and the Restless (CBS)
• General Hospital (ABC)
• Days of Our Lives (NBC/Peacock)
• The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)

Analysis: Excellent lighting is crucial for creating the right mood and atmosphere in daytime dramas. Nominees will be judged on their ability to use lighting effectively to enhance the visual impact of the scenes and support the storytelling.

Outstanding Technical Team, Camera Work, Video

Recognizing the collaborative efforts of the technical team in ensuring high-quality production standards, including camera work and video presentation.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Young and the Restless (CBS)
• General Hospital (ABC)
• Days of Our Lives (NBC/Peacock)
• The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)

Analysis: This category highlights the technical expertise required to produce a seamless and visually appealing daytime program. Nominees will be evaluated on the quality of their camera work, video editing, and overall technical execution.

Outstanding Costume Design/Styling

Celebrating the creativity and attention to detail in costume design and styling, which contribute to character development and visual appeal.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)
• The Young and the Restless (CBS)
• General Hospital (ABC)
• Days of Our Lives (NBC/Peacock)

Analysis: Costume design plays a significant role in shaping the characters' identities and enhancing the visual appeal of daytime dramas. The nominees will be selected based on the creativity, attention to detail, and overall effectiveness of their costume designs.

Outstanding Art Direction/Set Decoration/Scenic Design

Recognizing the artistic vision and execution of set design, which creates the visual world in which the stories unfold.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Young and the Restless (CBS)
• General Hospital (ABC)
• Days of Our Lives (NBC/Peacock)
• The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)

Analysis: The art direction and set decoration are crucial for creating believable and visually appealing environments in daytime dramas. Nominees will be judged on the creativity, attention to detail, and overall effectiveness of their set designs.

Outstanding Hairstyling and Makeup

Celebrating the skill and artistry of hairstylists and makeup artists who create the characters' looks and enhance their performances.

• Potential Nominees:
• The Young and the Restless (CBS)
• General Hospital (ABC)
• Days of Our Lives (NBC/Peacock)
• The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)

Analysis: Hairstyling and makeup play a vital role in shaping the characters' appearances and enhancing their performances. The nominees will be selected based on the creativity, skill, and overall effectiveness of their hairstyling and makeup techniques.

Additional Categories to Watch

Beyond the categories mentioned above, several other Daytime Emmy Awards recognize excellence in various aspects of daytime television, including:

• Outstanding Casting: Recognizing the talent and skill of casting directors in selecting the perfect actors for each role.
• Outstanding Editing: Celebrating the skill and artistry of editors in creating seamless and engaging episodes.
• Outstanding Sound Mixing and Sound Editing: Recognizing the technical expertise and creative vision of sound engineers in creating immersive and impactful audio experiences.

Predictions and Trends for the Daytime Emmy Awards 2025

While it's impossible to predict the future with certainty, here are some trends and predictions for the Daytime Emmy Awards 2025:

• Streaming Services Continue to Rise: With the increasing popularity of streaming services, expect to see more nominations for shows produced for platforms like Peacock, Netflix, and Hulu.
• Diversity and Inclusion: The Daytime Emmy Awards have made strides in recent years to recognize and celebrate diversity and inclusion, and this trend is likely to continue.
• Focus on Mental Health: Mental health storylines have become increasingly prevalent in daytime dramas, and expect to see this reflected in the nominations and awards.
• Celebrating Legacy: The Daytime Emmy Awards often honor the contributions of long-time performers and creators, and expect to see some legacy awards presented in 2025.

Staying Updated on the Daytime Emmy Awards 2025

To stay updated on the latest news and information about the Daytime Emmy Awards 2025, be sure to check the following resources:

• The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) Official Website: This is the primary source for official announcements, including the date, location, and broadcast details of the ceremony.
• Industry Publications: Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, and Deadline Hollywood are excellent sources for breaking news and analysis.
• Social Media: Follow the Daytime Emmy Awards on social media for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Conclusion

The Daytime Emmy Awards 2025 promise to be a celebration of the best in daytime television. From the drama series to the talk shows to the children's programming, there is something for everyone to enjoy. As we eagerly await the announcement of the nominees, this comprehensive guide provides a detailed look at the potential contenders and offers insightful analysis of the daytime television landscape.

Remember to tune in to the ceremony to see who takes home the coveted awards and celebrate the talent and creativity of the daytime television community. Stay tuned for further updates and coverage leading up to the big night! The Daytime Emmy Awards not only reward excellence in television, they also impact the industry as a whole.