The Irish are coming to Hollywood, and they’re bringing their A-game to the 2025 Emmy Awards. When the nominations were announced this week at a ceremony hosted by Harvey Guillén and Brenda Song, three powerhouse Irish performers found themselves in the running for television’s most coveted prizes.
Colin Farrell leads the charge with his transformative performance in THE PENGUIN, earning him a nomination for Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. The Castleknock native disappeared completely into the role of Oz Cobb, becoming virtually unrecognizable as he clawed his way to the top of Gotham City’s criminal underworld. This nomination adds to an already impressive collection of accolades for the performance, including an IFTA, SAG Award, Critics’ Choice Award, Golden Globe, and Satellite Award.
Sharon Horgan brings her signature dark brilliance to the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series category for BAD SISTERS, the critically acclaimed series she both created and stars in. Filmed on Irish soil, the show has captivated audiences worldwide with its blend of black comedy and family drama, showcasing Horgan’s ability to mine humor from the darkest corners of human experience. Her nomination represents not just personal recognition but a triumph for Irish storytelling on the global stage.
Completing the Irish trio is Ruth Negga, whose nuanced performance as Barbara Sabich in the legal thriller PRESUMED INNOCENT has earned her a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. Working alongside Jake Gyllenhaal in the series, Negga demonstrates once again why she’s considered one of the most versatile actors of her generation.
Beyond the acting categories, Ireland’s creative influence extends to the technical craft of television, with John Conroy receiving a nomination for Outstanding Cinematography in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for his work on ZERO DAY. The filmmaker’s visual storytelling adds another dimension to Ireland’s Emmy presence.
The ceremony itself will unfold on September 14 in Los Angeles, where these Irish talents will compete on television’s biggest night. With such a strong showing across multiple categories, from lead performances to supporting roles to behind-the-camera excellence, Irish artists are proving their storytelling prowess translates seamlessly to American television’s highest honors. Whether it’s Farrell’s complete physical transformation, Horgan’s masterful balance of comedy and tragedy, or Negga’s subtle supporting work, each nomination represents the kind of fearless, authentic performance that makes great television unforgettable.
