‘100 Foot Wave’ Takes Home Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series Award at Creative Arts Emmys
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The prestigious 2025 Creative Arts Emmys saw “100 Foot Wave” clinch the award for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series. The ceremony, spread over two days in Los Angeles on September 6 and 7, will be aired on FXX on September 13.
The acclaimed documentary series faced tough competition from the likes of Chef’s Table, Simone Biles Rising, SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night, and Social Studies. However, “100 Foot Wave” emerged victorious, adding to its previous wins and 12 Emmy nominations since its debut in 2021.

The third season of the gripping series, available on HBO Max, follows legendary surfer Garrett McNamara and his team as they chase after some of the most colossal waves around the world. Director Chris Smith revealed the inspiration behind the series, explaining how the sheer magnitude of the waves resonates with audiences on a deep level.
HBO Max’s win was not limited to the main award; it also secured the trophy for Outstanding Cinematography for a Nonfiction Program. The series continues to captivate viewers with its visually stunning portrayal of the adrenaline-pumping world of big wave surfing.
In another category, Chef’s Table, with its seventh volume released on Netflix, showcased the culinary journeys of five renowned chefs globally. The series, which received three Emmy nominations this year, has been a staple in the awards circuit with a total of 11 nominations over its seven seasons.
Simone Biles Rising, a poignant four-part docuseries on Netflix, delves into the life of the iconic gymnast leading up to her triumphant return at the Paris Summer Olympics in 2024. The series offers a glimpse into Biles’ personal struggles and triumphs, including her strong stance against criticism of her loved ones.
The celebration of the 50th season of Saturday Night Live resulted in the creation of SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night. The series, featuring unseen footage and insights from over 60 contributors to the iconic show, provides a fresh perspective on the cultural phenomenon that is SNL.
FX’s “Social Studies” examines the impact of social media on the lives of modern-day youth. The series, filmed in Los Angeles, sheds light on the challenges faced by adolescents in navigating issues like bullying and beauty standards in the digital age, underlining the pressures unique to this generation.
The 2025 Creative Arts Emmys continue to honour outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment, showcasing the diversity and talent within the industry. As the winners bask in their well-deserved recognition, audiences eagerly anticipate the main event to be broadcast on FXX on September 13.
The film and television industry’s dedication to storytelling and innovation is evident in the quality of productions recognised at the Creative Arts Emmys. Each winner represents a unique narrative that has resonated with audiences, reaffirming the power of visual media in shaping our cultural landscape.
