Daytime Emmys 2025: Paul Telfer & Nancy Lee Grahn's Triumphant & Talk-Worthy Wins!

The 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards just wrapped up, and what a night it was! We saw incredible talent honored, with Days of Our Lives star Paul Telfer taking home his first Lead Actor Emmy and General Hospital icon Nancy Lee Grahn delivering a powerful, politically charged acceptance speech while nabbing her second Lead Actress win.

TL;DR

• Paul Telfer (Days of Our Lives) won the 2025 Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, his first win in this category.
• Nancy Lee Grahn (General Hospital) secured her second Lead Actress Emmy, making headlines with a bold "Democracy Dies In Silence" clutch and an impassioned speech.
• The 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards were held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.

A Sparkling Evening in Pasadena: Celebrating Daytime's Finest Talent

Lights, camera, Emmys! The 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards lit up the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on Friday, October 17, 2025, bringing together the biggest names in daytime television. It was a night filled with emotional speeches, well-deserved recognition, and even a few moments that really got people talking. From the red carpet glamour to the heartfelt thank-yous, the event celebrated the artistry and dedication that keep our favorite daytime dramas, talk shows, and game shows going strong.

Among the night's most memorable moments were the wins for two beloved soap opera veterans: Paul Telfer from Peacock's Days of Our Lives and Nancy Lee Grahn of ABC's General Hospital. Both actors delivered performances that captivated audiences and impressed critics, culminating in top honors at this prestigious event. Their wins weren't just about the awards themselves, but about the powerful messages and personal journeys they shared.

Paul Telfer's Emotional First Win for Outstanding Lead Actor Performance

It was a huge night for Paul Telfer, the talented Scottish actor known for his compelling portrayal of Xander Kiriakis on Days of Our Lives. Telfer, 45, finally snagged the coveted Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, marking his first win in this category and his second nomination overall. His previous nomination was in 2020 for Outstanding Supporting Actor, where he went up against his DAYS co-stars Wally Kurth and Chandler Massey but lost to Bryton James from The Young and the Restless.

This win is particularly significant for Telfer and for Days of Our Lives history. He becomes only the third actor from the long-running soap to win in the Lead Actor category. The late, legendary Macdonald Carey, who played Dr. Tom Horton, was the first in 1974 and 1975. James Reynolds (Abe Carver) broke a 43-year drought for the show when he won in 2018, and now Telfer continues this legacy, proving the enduring power of Salem's dramatic tales.

From Stand-In to Leading Man: Paul Telfer's Journey to Daytime Emmy Glory

Paul Telfer's path to Emmy gold is a classic Hollywood story of perseverance. After moving to America in the early 2000s to pursue acting, he appeared in shows like NCIS and the Hercules miniseries. His journey into daytime dramas actually began as a stand-in for former DAYS actor James Scott. He first joined Days of Our Lives in January 2015 for a six-episode arc as Damon, Victor Kiriakis's henchman. Just a few months later, he returned as the now iconic Alexandros "Xander" Cook, Victor's nephew, who was eventually revealed to be his son. Xander's complex character, often playing the villain, has resonated deeply with fans.

In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Telfer thanked his wife of 13 years, veteran stage actress Carmen Cusack (known for Broadway's Bright Star and Flying Over Sunset), who couldn't be there as she was working on the East Coast. He also gave a shout-out to his cast, crew, and fellow nominees, including DAYS co-stars Eric Martsolf and Greg Rikaart, Peter Bergman from The Young and the Restless, and Dominic Zamprogna from General Hospital.

Paul Telfer's Emotional Tribute:

"The last thing I ever expected was for my 80-year-old father to become a fan of soap operas," Telfer shared, his voice cracking. "And he did, whereas my mum always loved soaps, and she loved villains. She's been gone for over 20 years, and so to win this for a soap opera, playing a villain, is really wonderful."

He dedicated the award to his late mother, adding, "To win this for playing a villain is really wonderful, so thank you mom." He also expressed immense gratitude to the "Days squad" and, realizing an oversight, gave a special thanks to the incredible fans.

For his Emmy reel, Telfer submitted powerful scenes featuring Xander and his mother, Fiona (played by Serena Scott Thomas), especially the pivotal moment where it's revealed she caused Sarah's paralysis, showcasing both "sad Xander and angry Xander." He also included intense scenes with Eric Martsolf's character, Brady. It's clear that his dedication to bringing Xander's nuanced villainy to life truly paid off.

Nancy Lee Grahn's Bold Statement and Second Lead Actress Victory

Across the awards stage, another daytime powerhouse made her mark, both with her talent and her convictions. Nancy Lee Grahn, 69, who has brilliantly portrayed the sharp-witted Alexis Davis on General Hospital for years, secured her second Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Daytime Drama Series. Her first win in this category was back in 2017, proving her consistent excellence in the role.

But Grahn didn't just win an award; she used her platform to send a clear, unmissable message. Her red-carpet look itself made waves: alongside a chic white collared blouse, shimmery skirt, and elegant accessories, she carried a striking silver clutch that boldly declared, "Democracy Dies In Silence" in black lettering. This fashion statement set the stage for an even more impactful moment during her acceptance speech.

Using Her Soapbox: Grahn's Call to Action for Democracy and Decency

True to her character's outspoken nature and her own reputation, Nancy Lee Grahn didn't hold back when she took the stage. She made it clear that she felt a responsibility to use her moment in the spotlight for a greater purpose.

Nancy Lee Grahn's Powerful Speech:

"Along with this job, comes a literal soapbox, and my parents would be very disappointed in me if I didn’t use it right now to speak out for other people," Grahn began, captivating the audience.

She continued with an impassioned plea: "Our democracy is worth fighting for. The people in it are worth caring about, caring about them, and whether you have a platform or not, now is the time, guys. Now is the time to show up, stand up, speak up for human decency. For democracy. Stand up and vote for it every chance you get."

Grahn's speech resonated deeply, especially given the current social and political climate. Her powerful call to action underscored the idea that entertainment figures, particularly those with a dedicated audience, have a unique opportunity to advocate for causes they believe in. Her character, Alexis Davis, has long been a voice of reason and strength on General Hospital, often navigating complex legal and personal dilemmas. It's fitting that the actress who brings her to life would embody such conviction off-screen as well.

A Night of Unforgettable Moments and Deep Impact for Daytime TV

The 52nd Daytime Emmy Awards proved once again that daytime television, with its intricate storylines and beloved characters, holds a special place in the hearts of millions. Both Paul Telfer and Nancy Lee Grahn's victories highlight the incredible talent and dedication present in the genre. Telfer's emotional win for a complex villain validates the depth of character development possible in soaps, while Grahn's bold message reinforces the idea that these shows and their stars can also be powerful vehicles for social commentary and advocacy.

These wins aren't just personal triumphs for the actors; they're moments that energize their respective shows and communities. Fans of Days of Our Lives have championed Xander's growth and Telfer's performance for years, and this award is a celebration for them too. Similarly, Grahn's consistent brilliance as Alexis Davis, coupled with her willingness to speak out, only deepens her connection with General Hospital viewers. The Emmys serve as a crucial platform to recognize these contributions and to showcase the best of daytime to a broader audience.

What Do These Wins Mean for Fans of Days of Our Lives and General Hospital?

For longtime viewers, these awards are a reaffirmation of the quality and impact of their favorite shows. Paul Telfer's win means that the nuanced, often morally ambiguous journey of Xander Kiriakis has been acknowledged at the highest level. It shines a spotlight on the Peacock-exclusive Days of Our Lives, potentially drawing new viewers to see the award-winning performance. It's a boost for the show, showcasing its strong acting talent and engaging storylines. Fans can expect more compelling narratives for Xander, as the show often capitalizes on its stars' successes.

Nancy Lee Grahn's enduring appeal and her second Lead Actress win for General Hospital cement her status as a daytime legend. Her performance as Alexis Davis has been a cornerstone of the show, bringing gravitas and passion to every scene. While her speech sparked discussion beyond Port Charles, her win ensures that Alexis will continue to be a central, powerful figure. It's a win for the show's consistent quality and for the strong female characters it presents. Both wins are a reason for fans to tune in, celebrate, and continue to engage with the rich, unfolding stories of Salem and Port Charles.

FAQ: Your Quick Guide to the 52nd Daytime Emmy Awards & Stars When and where were the 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards held? The awards ceremony took place on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California. Where can I watch Days of Our Lives and General Hospital? Days of Our Lives airs weekdays exclusively on Peacock. General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC; check your local listings for exact times. What category did Paul Telfer win? Paul Telfer won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. What category did Nancy Lee Grahn win? Nancy Lee Grahn won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Daytime Drama Series. What was the message on Nancy Lee Grahn's clutch? Her silver clutch read "Democracy Dies In Silence" in black lettering. Sources

• Daytime Confidential - Paul Telfer Nabs Outstanding Lead Actor Daytime Emmy
• Parade - Paul Telfer Wins 2025 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor
• Digital Journal - Paul Telfer speaks about his 2025 Emmy win
• TV Insider - ‘General Hospital’ Star Nancy Lee Grahn Sends a Bold Political Message at Daytime Emmy Awards