Emmy Awards 2025 recap: The biggest winners and most memorable moments

“The Cosby Show” star Phylicia Rashad introduced the in memoriam segment, honoring her co-star Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who drowned in Costa Rica in July.

“He was a beloved teenager in an iconic television series who the world watched grow into manhood. And like all our friends and colleagues who transitioned this past year, Malcolm Jamal-Warner remains in our hearts,” Rashad said, as the crowd applauded.

“Even though they may no longer be here with us, we can all smile knowing that their impact will remain, knowing that their lasting impressions will continue to live on through story, knowing that they touched our lives,” Rashad said. “Whether you grew up watching them, or have just now discovered their brilliance, their light remains in the very fabric of our industry."

Others remembered in the in memoriam segment include "Gossip Girl" star Michelle Trachtenberg, who died from complications of diabetes in February; Robin Kaye, an “American Idol” music supervisor who was killed in her home in July; and Food Network chef Anne Burrell, who died by suicide in June.

During the in memoriam segment, singers Vince Gill and Lainey Wilson performed Gill's 1995 song, "Go Rest High on That Mountain."

"Man on the Inside" star Ted Danson and his wife, actress Mary Steenburgen, were honored with the 2025 Bob Hope Humanitarian Award.

The couple began the speech by thanking their parents for setting an example for how to live.

"My father was an archeologist, and spent most of his life digging up and cataloging the remnants of past cultures," said Danson. "He taught me, 'This life is not just about us. A lot of people have come before us, and a lot of people will come after us. It's about our stewardship of what we have been given.'"

Steenburgen continued the speech, saying, "Together we have a sacred assignment to remind the world of its dreams, its failures, its laughter, its courage and, most especially, its hope."

They are the first couple to receive the award together. According to a press release, the award is "given to individuals in the media industry whose deeds and actions have a lasting impact on communities and whose philanthropic efforts exemplify Bob Hope's decades-long altruism and positive impact on society."

“Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen have long used their voices — and their hearts — to champion causes that uplift the planet and its people,” said Cris Abrego, chair of the Television Academy, in a press release. “From environmental advocacy to humanitarian relief, they lead with grace, integrity and purpose. The Television Academy is proud to honor their extraordinary legacy of service with the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award.”

Eagle-eyed viewers noticed "Severance" star Britt Lower reading her acceptance speech from a note which had the words "Let Me Out" written on the back. The message is a nod to her character, Helly R., who is looking to break free beyond the walls of Lumon.

Erin Doherty took home the prize for best supporting actress in a limited or anthology series or movie for her role in "Adolescence."

Doherty thanked the entire team behind the show, her big sister and more in her acceptance speech.

Other nominees included Ruth Negga in "Presumed Innocent," Deirdre O'Connell in "The Penguin," Chloë Sevigny in "Monsters: The Lyle And Erik Menendez Story," Jenny Slate in "Dying For Sex" and Christine Tremarco in "Adolescence."