Emmy Competition Shake-Up: Netflix-HBO/HBO Max Alliance Set to Lead Television Awards

For nearly a decade, the Emmy Awards have largely revolved around a rivalry between HBO, the perennial powerhouse, and Netflix, the ambitious newcomer. Except for occasional exceptions, such as FXs standout 2024 performance, the race for top honors has consistently been led by HBO or Netflix, depending on which shows are in peak form. This trend is mirrored across other prominent television awards, including the Golden Globes, Critics Choice, and the Actor Awards.

Netflixs proposed $82.7 billion acquisition of HBO/HBO Max and Warner Bros. entertainment division promises to dramatically reshape the awards landscape. The merger would create a dominant force in television, combining two of the industrys most successful content producers.

To understand the potential impact of this union, the 2025 Emmy Awards offer a glimpse. HBO/HBO Max and Netflix captured the top two positions in both nominations and wins. HBO/HBO Max received 142 nominations, followed by Netflix with 120. Apple TV garnered 79, ABC 37, and FX 35. Together, HBO/HBO Max and Netflix accounted for an extraordinary 262 nominations, representing nearly three-quarters of all nominations across networks and streaming platforms.

The distribution of awards further underscores their dominance. Both HBO/HBO Max and Netflix secured 30 Emmys each. HBOs The Penguin earned 9, while HBO Maxs The Pitt and Netflixs Adolescence won 8 each, including major accolades for acting and Outstanding Drama/Limited Series. Apple TV, buoyed by The Studios 13 wins and Severances 8, placed third with 22 awards. Combined, HBO/HBO Max and Netflixs 60 Emmys equaled the total captured by all other networks and platforms.

If the Netflix-Warner Bros. merger proceeds as anticipated in Q3 2026, the next Emmy cycle may mark the final competition between these two giants before they join forces to dominate the awards landscape.

Author: Olivia Parker