The 2025 Daytime Emmys brought heartfelt thanks, tears, and spontaneous laughter. From surprise shout-outs to moving tributes, these are the top five acceptance-speech moments that set social media buzzing.
JPI Studios.The 2025 Daytime Emmy Awards were filled with gratitude, humor, and a few tears. As the night’s first winners took the stage, fans were treated to raw emotion and candid moments that defined the spirit of daytime television. Here are the top five acceptance-speech highlights from the show.
1. Outstanding Supporting Actress Y&R’s Susan Walters
The Young and the Restless star, Susan Walters, who portrays Diane Jenkins Abbott, gave a beautiful and heartfelt speech after winning her first nomination. She thanked scene partners, Peter Bergman (Jack) and Michael Mealor (Kyle). She also credited the show’s head writer, Josh Griffith for giving her new life. Of course, she thanked her husband of 40 years and fellow nominee, Linden Johnson (Cameron).
2. Outstanding Emerging Talent in a Daytime Drama Series, B&B’s Lisa Yamada
The Bold and the Beautiful’s Lisa Yamada, who portrays Luna Nowanza, gave an incredibly emotional speech when she won. She thanked Don Diamont (Bill) for his guidance on the soap, and fellow nominee, Christian Weissman (Remy). Additionally, she gave her parents heartfelt thanks for helping her follow her dream of acting.
3. Outstanding Lead Actress, GH’s Nancy Lee Grahn
General Hospital‘s, Nancy Lee Grahn, who portrays Alexis Davis, gave a beautiful speech. In it, she thanked ABC for allowing her to give her daughter, Kate, a home all these years. She also encouraged people to stand up and ensure that free speech remains free.
4. Outstanding Lead Actor, DAYS, Paul Telfer
Days of our Lives star Paul Telfer (Xander Kiriakis) gave a beautiful acceptance speech. He said that his late mother loved villains like the one he portrays on the soap. Although Telfer was nominated in 2020, this year was the second time he had ever attended the Daytime Emmys (check out Soap Hub‘s interview with him last year).
5. Outstanding Guest Performance, GH’s Alley Mills
General Hospital‘s Alley Mills, who portrays Heather Webber, took home the Daytime Emmy for her portrayal, and she said she was surprised. The star honored her late husband, Orson Bean, by dedicating the award to him. She won the award in 2023, and in 2024, she was nominated but lost to DAYS’ star Dick Van Dyke.
