Owen Cooper Makes Emmy History at 15
At just 15, Owen Cooper stunned Hollywood. On September 14, 2025, he walked into the Peacock Theater as a newcomer and left as an Emmy legend. He became the youngest male actor ever to win, surpassing a record held by Scott Jacoby for 52 years.
Cooper claimed the Emmy for Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for his gripping role as Jamie Miller in Adolescence, a one-take drama praised for its raw intensity and timely themes.
“Like, I was nothing about three years ago. I’m here now,” Cooper said during his acceptance speech. “If you step out of your comfort zone a little, anything can be possible.”
A Star Is Born
Cooper’s journey began in Manchester, England, four years ago. At 11, he joined an after-school drama group despite initially avoiding school plays. Acting helped him step out of his shell—and soon became his calling.
His breakout role in Adolescence propelled him into the international spotlight. The series, which explores youth isolation, online radicalization, and digital toxicity, sparked both controversy and acclaim. Even UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised the show and supported streaming it for free in schools.
Owen Cooper smiling at the audience during his acceptance speech. | Source: Getty Images
Triumph Over Hollywood Heavyweights
Owen Cooper beat out acclaimed actors including Javier Bardem, Peter Sarsgaard, Bill Camp, Rob Delaney, and co-star Ashley Walters. His performance wasn’t just strong—it was a revelation.
After hugging his family, Cooper accepted the award from Sydney Sweeney, delivering a speech full of humility and gratitude. He credited his parents, friends, and the creative team behind Adolescence:
“They may have my name on this award, but it really belongs to the people behind the camera.”
Later, he celebrated the win with a humble Instagram Story, sharing a photo of himself holding the Emmy above his head.
Breaking a 52-Year Record
Cooper unseated Scott Jacoby, who won the Emmy in 1973 at age 16 for That Certain Summer. Jacoby’s win was historic in its own right, tackling LGBTQ+ themes decades before they were widely addressed on television.
While Cooper now holds the record for the youngest male winner, the youngest Emmy winner ever remains Roxana Zal, who won at age 14 in 1984 for Something About Amelia.
The Road Ahead
From Manchester schoolboy to Emmy record-breaker, Owen Cooper has proven that talent transcends age. With upcoming projects alongside Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi, and Aimee Lou Wood, his rise shows no signs of slowing.
Cooper’s story reminds us that stepping out of your comfort zone, embracing challenges, and focusing on craft can create moments that are both historic and inspiring.
