Emmys 2025 Nominations Trivia and Oddities: Jay-Z vs. Beyoncé, More

Jay-Z and Beyoncé are both set to make a splash at this year’s Emmy Awards, as they find themselves competing against each other in the outstanding variety special (live) category. Jay-Z, also known as Shawn Carter, is nominated as an executive producer for Fox’s “The Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show Starring Kendrick Lamar,” which received a total of four nominations. On the other hand, Beyoncé is up for Netflix’s “Beyoncé Bowl” as an executive producer and performer, credited as Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, with four nominations as well.

The potential clash between these power couple’s projects could be alleviated by Jesse Collins, who is not only producing this year’s Emmy telecast but was also involved in both the Kendrick Lamar halftime show and the Beyoncé event. As the night unfolds, Collins may face challenges, but let’s hope he can navigate smoothly.

This year’s Emmy nominations have brought some interesting trivia and unique observations to light. Kathy Bates, known for her role in “Matlock,” has become the oldest person ever to receive a best actress nomination at the age of 77. Additionally, Bowen Yang from “Saturday Night Live” has made history by earning his fourth nomination, the most for an Asian actor. Apple TV+’s “The Studio” has also made waves by becoming the most-nominated freshman comedy in history, tying with last year’s record holder, “The Bear.”

Other intriguing tidbits from this year’s nominations include long-overdue recognition for actors like Ron Howard and Harrison Ford, who received their first-ever acting Emmy nominations after 52 years since their breakout roles in “American Graffiti.” The multi-hyphenates in this year’s nominations list include Quinta Brunson, Ayo Edebiri, Seth Rogen, Michelle Williams, Colin Farrell, Stephen Graham, Julianne Nicholson, and Catherine O’Hara, showcasing their talents across various categories.

In a surprising turn of events, rising star Doechii may not be nominated this year, but her contributions to projects like Nike’s “So Win.” and the 67th Grammys have earned recognition through nominated commercials and choreography nods. The comedy writing nominees this year feature on-camera performers from almost every nominated show, adding a unique dynamic to the category.

“Saturday Night Live” may have scored its lowest number of nominations as a standalone program, but the overall “SNL” franchise received a record-breaking 31 nominations this year, thanks to various anniversary specials and related content. The Emmys’ emerging media program category saw all three nominees coming from Meta, including immersive experiences like “SNL 50th The Anniversary Special: Immersive Experience.”

The Emmy nominations also highlight some interesting face-offs, such as former “SNL” alums Adam Sandler and Kristen Wiig competing in the original music and lyrics category. The nominations also shed light on behind-the-scenes dramas, like the creative differences between “The White Lotus” creator Mike White and composer Cristobal Tapia de Veer, who still managed to secure nominations for their work.

With a diverse range of nominees, from seasoned veterans to first-time contenders, the 2022 Emmy Awards promise to be an exciting celebration of talent and creativity in the television industry.