California productions win 21 Emmy awards at annual ceremony

California television productions achieved significant recognition at the 77th Annual Emmy Awards, winning a total of 21 awards. Fourteen shows produced in the state were nominated for more than 100 Emmys, with several taking home top honors in categories such as Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Comedy Series, and Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.

Governor Gavin Newsom commented on the results: “The collection of these achievements is a testament to the way investments in California can play a direct role in supporting small businesses, shaping communities, and uplifting efforts of storytelling to share with the world. We commend the great work of the production workers and all those who have made these achievements possible.”

Among the notable winners was Apple TV+’s “The Studio,” which received 13 Emmy awards including Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, and Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series. HBO Max’s “The Pitt” earned five awards such as Outstanding Drama Series and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. Another HBO Max show, “Hacks,” took home two Emmys: Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. ABC’s broadcast of “The Oscars” won an award for Outstanding Production Design for a Variety Special.

Some of these productions benefited from California’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program. In July, Governor Newsom announced an expansion of this program alongside labor representatives and entertainment industry leaders—including recent Emmy winner Noah Wyle—aiming to keep film and television jobs within California. The annual funding for the tax credit was increased from $330 million to $750 million. This expansion is intended to maintain California's status as a major center for film and television production by enhancing incentives for local projects (https://film.ca.gov/tax-credit/). The program now includes updates that focus on workforce diversity provisions, additional support for career training programs, and safety initiatives on set.

According to the California Film Commission, expanded funding measures have already been incorporated into upcoming application cycles. The next round will open on September 29, 2025, specifically targeting television projects.