The Daytime Emmy Awards are set for a big night this fall with a familiar face at the helm and some of daytime’s most beloved stars in the spotlight. The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) has announced that Mario Lopez will host the 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy® Awards on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. The ceremony will stream live on watch.theemmys.tv and through The Emmys® app.
Mario Lopez Takes Center Stage
Lopez, an Emmy-winning host known for Access Hollywood and Saved by the Bell, is no stranger to live television. His charm and daytime roots make him a natural fit to lead the broadcast. NATAS has also partnered with Access Hollywood to deliver behind-the-scenes features leading up to the show, as well as post-event coverage on October 20.
Fans Return to the Audience
For the first time since 2018, fans will have the chance to attend the ceremony in person. A limited number of tickets have been released to the public at $75 each (plus fees), giving longtime viewers a rare opportunity to cheer on their favorite stars inside the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.
Honoring Daytime Legends
The 2025 ceremony will celebrate the careers of performers and creatives whose contributions have shaped the industry.
Lifetime Achievement and Circle Honors include:
- Jane Elliott (General Hospital, Tracy Quartermaine) — inducted into the Gold Circle.
- Judy Blye Wilson (casting director, The Young and the Restless) — Silver Circle.
- Kate Linder (The Young and the Restless, Esther Valentine) — Silver Circle.
- James Reynolds (Days of our Lives, Abe Carver) — Silver Circle.
- Star Jones (Divorce Court, The View) — Silver Circle.
- Greg Barna (director of photography) — Silver Circle.
In addition, Deborah Norville will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her groundbreaking tenure as the longest-serving female anchor in American television.
A Night of Tradition and Innovation
The 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy® Awards will also debut new categories, including Outstanding Culinary Cultural Series and Outstanding Emerging Talent in a Daytime Drama Series. With Lopez leading the celebration, soap icons honored, and fans back in the audience, the 2025 ceremony is poised to honor the legacy of daytime while embracing its future.
