Emmy Predictions: Lead Actress in a Drama Series
- as the 2025 Emmys approach, the race for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series is heating up.
- Kathy Bates, star of "Matlock," appears well-positioned after wins at the golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards.
- Elisabeth Moss ("The Handmaid's Tale") embodies another trend: awarding an actress for her farewell performance.
Anticipate the leading contenders for the 2025 Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Discover whether Kathy Bates, Elisabeth Moss, or another talented actress will take home the coveted prize. Explore the favorites, including strong performances from “Matlock,” “The HandmaidS Tale,” and “Severance.” Our predictions analyze performances from the primary_keyword: lead actress, and the buzz around potential nominees like Keri Russell, and Kaitlin Olson, too. We at News Directory 3 are tracking the key players, their chances, and what the Television Academy might favor. What pivotal moments will define the winners? Discover what’s next as we approach the Emmy nominations.
2025 Emmys: Predicting the Lead Actress in a Drama Series
Updated June 10, 2025
as the 2025 Emmys approach, the race for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series is heating up. Nomination voting runs from June 12-23,with nominations announced July 15. Final voting occurs August 18-27. The 77th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards will air live on CBS on Sunday, Sept. 14,at 8 p.m. ET.
Kathy Bates, star of “Matlock,” appears well-positioned after wins at the golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards. The fact that “Matlock” is in its first season may give her an edge, as voters find it easier to catch up on a new show. Bates has already won two Emmys.
Elisabeth Moss (“The Handmaid’s Tale”) embodies another trend: awarding an actress for her farewell performance. Anna Sawai (“Shōgun”), last year’s winner, represents both trends, having won for the first season of her show. Moss also won for the first season of “The Handmaid’s Tale,” and another win could bookend the show’s Emmy recognition.
Britt Lower (“Severance”) is also a strong contender. Despite not being nominated for the first season, her dual role gained significant attention in the show’s return.
Keri Russell (“The Diplomat”) is expected to shine in the second season, while Bella Ramsey (“the Last of Us”) gains momentum as Ellie seeks revenge. Melanie Lynskey (“Yellowjackets”), already nominated, may have to wait until her show concludes to win.
Kaitlin Olson (“Hacks”), with her new procedural “High Potential,” has built considerable goodwill with the Television Academy.
Predicted Nominees:
- Kathy Bates, “Matlock” (CBS)
- Britt Lower, “Severance” (Apple TV+)
- Melanie Lynskey, “Yellowjackets” (Showtime)
- Elisabeth Moss, “The Handmaid’s Tale” (Hulu)
- Bella Ramsey, “The Last of Us” (HBO)
- Keri Russell, “The Diplomat” (Netflix)
Other Contenders:
- Sharon Horgan, “Bad Sisters” (Apple TV+)
- Keira Knightley, “Black Doves” (Netflix)
- Kaitlin Olson, “High Potential” (ABC)
In a Perfect World:
- Marisa Abela, “Industry” (HBO)
- Nicola Coughlan, “Bridgerton” (Netflix)
- Lovie Simone, “Forever” (Netflix)
What’s next
The Emmy nominations will be announced July 15, revealing which of these talented actresses will officially compete for the prestigious award. The final vote will determine who takes home the prize on September 14.