The International Emmy Awards 2025, hosted by Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, brought together creators from 26 countries. This reflects the growing depth and diversity of international storytelling across drama, documentaries, current affairs, children’s programming, and digital content.
The UK secured some of the night’s biggest wins. The Disney+ drama “Rivals,” based on Dame Jilly Cooper’s 1988 novel and starring David Tennant, Danny Dyer, and Emily Atack, won Best Drama Series. With a second season already in development, the show’s success underscores its international appeal. The BBC’s comedy-drama “Ludwig” also claimed Best Comedy. It was celebrated for its mix of mystery and quirky humour led by Anna Maxwell-Martin and David Mitchell.
Maxwell-Martin earned a second win as Best Actress for her standout performance. She starred in ITV’s “Until I Kill You,” based on Delia Balmer’s harrowing true story and her relationship with a convicted serial killer.
Spain had a strong night as well, with Oriol Pla winning Best Actor for his role in Disney+ drama “Yo, Adicto.” The Spanish sports documentary “#SeAcabó” secured another major win.
Turkiye continued its rise in the international TV landscape. Madd Entertainment’s “The Good and The Bad” won Best Telenovela. Meanwhile, Brazil’s media visionary Joao Roberto Marinho, Chairman of Grupo Globo, received the prestigious Directorate Award. He was recognized for championing independent journalism and cultural programming.
The Founders Award went to Dana Walden, Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment. This was in recognition of her decades-long impact on global television. She influenced iconic shows including 24, Glee, Grey’s Anatomy, and Homeland.
A defining moment of the evening came with the landmark wins of two Gaza-focused documentaries. Channel 4’s “Dispatches: Kill Zone – Inside Gaza” won Best Current Affairs for its reporting on Palestinian civilians. Meanwhile, Qatar’s “Gaza, Search for Life” won Best News for its powerful on-ground coverage of humanitarian challenges. These wins signalled the Emmys’ support for bold, investigative journalism.
The UK extended its lead with more victories. BBC Two’s “Hell Jumper” won Best Documentary. Moreover, “Lost Boys & Fairies” won Best TV Movie/Mini-Series for its emotional portrayal of a queer couple navigating the adoption process.
The UK extended its lead with more victories: BBC Two’s “Hell Jumper” won Best Documentary. “Lost Boys & Fairies” also won Best TV Movie/Mini-Series for its emotional portrayal of a queer couple navigating the adoption process.
In children’s programming, Apple TV’s “Fallen” won Best Live-Action Series. Meanwhile, Australia’s beloved “Bluey” claimed Best Animation. Denmark earned recognition with “Shaolin Heroes,” and Germany’s “Auf Fritzis Spuren – Wie war das so in der DDR?” was awarded Best Children’s Factual Programme.
Canada’s “La Médiatrice” won Best Short-Form Series, and Japan’s moving documentary “Ryuichi Sakamoto: Last Days” took home Best Arts Programming.
India, despite high expectations, finished the night without a win. The biographical film “Amar Singh Chamkila,” with nominations including one for Diljit Dosanjh, did not secure any awards. This highlighted the fierce competition this year.
International Academy President Bruce L. Paisner reflected on the night’s biggest takeaway. Compelling stories continue to connect audiences across borders. This proves that strong narratives—regardless of language or culture—shape the evolving future of global television.