2025 SAG Awards Predictions: Top Contenders in Every Category

The 2025 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards are shaping up to be a thrilling race, with top contenders like Netflix’s “Emilia Pérez,” Universal’s “Wicked,” and Focus Features’ “Conclave” leading the nomination buzz. As Hollywood gears up for this prestigious event, the landscape of potential winners is more competitive than ever.

Top Films Leading the Nominations

Netflix’s Spanish-language crime musical “Emilia Pérez” has emerged as a frontrunner, dazzling audiences and critics alike at the Golden Globes. The film is projected to receive four major SAG nominations, including Best Cast Ensemble, Best Actress for Karla Sofía Gascón, and two Best Supporting Actress nods for Selena Gomez and Zoe Saldaña.

Hot on its heels are Universal’s blockbuster musical “Wicked” and Focus Features’ “Conclave,” each predicted to garner three nominations.

The SAG Nominating Committee, consisting of 2,000 anonymous guild members, is known for surprising picks. Films like “House of Gucci” and “The Big Sick” have previously secured unexpected nominations. This year, Sony’s “Saturday Night,” with its record-breaking ensemble of 26 actors, is a major contender. If nominated, it could surpass “Gosford Park” for the largest cast recognized in SAG history.

Tight Race in the Best Actor Category

The Best Actor category remains one of the most unpredictable. With four slots seemingly locked, the battle for the fifth spot is fierce. Daniel Craig’s transformative role in “Queer,” Hugh Grant’s chilling performance in “Heretic,” and Sebastian Stan’s dual breakout roles in “The Apprentice” and “A Different Man” are all vying for recognition. Stan’s co-star Jeremy Strong could also see a nod, adding further intrigue to this category.

Best Actress Showdown

The Best Actress race is equally competitive, with standout performances from Cynthia Erivo (“Wicked”) and Demi Moore (“The Substance”). Karla Sofía Gascón’s captivating performance in “Emilia Pérez” positions her as a frontrunner. However, dark horse Marianne Jean-Baptiste (“Hard Truths”) could disrupt the status quo. Her historic wins from major critics’ associations make her a formidable contender. Meanwhile, Fernanda Torres’ recent Golden Globe win for “I’m Still Here” threatens to shake up the category, potentially sidelining heavyweights like Nicole Kidman (“Babygirl”) and Angelina Jolie (“Maria”).

Supporting Actor and Actress Wild Cards

The supporting categories are filled with potential surprises. Clarence Maclin (“Sing Sing”) and Danielle Deadwyler (“The Piano Lesson”) could redeem Golden Globe snubs by earning SAG recognition. Stanley Tucci (“Conclave”) remains a wildcard, while Elle Fanning and Monica Barbaro (“A Complete Unknown”) are dark horses worth watching.

Television Categories: Emmy Bellwethers

SAG Awards often mirror Emmy results, and FX’s “Shōgun” is anticipated to dominate. The epic drama, led by Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai, has already made history as the most awarded drama series. Netflix’s “The Diplomat” and “Squid Game” are expected to remain strong contenders.

In comedy, ABC’s “Abbott Elementary” continues its winning streak with Quinta Brunson at the helm. Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building,” starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, and FX’s “The Bear” are also poised for recognition. The return of HBO’s “Hacks” adds to the competitive landscape.

Upcoming Announcements

The official SAG Awards nominations will be announced on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Actors Joey King and Cooper Koch will present the nominees. Koch, who stars in “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” could also see his name on the list, marking a career milestone.

Stay tuned for full coverage and detailed predictions as the awards season heats up. The SAG Awards remain one of the most exciting and unpredictable stops on the road to the Oscars.

Also Read: Rush Hour: The Ultimate Feel-Good Movie That Never Gets Old