Rachel Schwartz has made history as the first female Head of the Daytime Emmys and Children’s & Family Emmys, with a longstanding connection to Gold Derby since she was one of the original forum moderators in the early 2000s. Schwartz recently shared insights and exclusive details about the upcoming 2025 Daytime Emmy nominations, which will unfold beginning tonight and continue tomorrow.
A key point of discussion revolves around the absence of nominations for the new CBS soap opera, “Beyond the Gates,” which features a predominantly Black cast—the first of its kind in 35 years. Schwartz noted that the show was not eligible for this year’s awards due to the calendar year eligibility window, but she expressed optimism for its participation in the 2026 Daytime Emmys.
Changes to the nomination process have been a topic of interest. Schwartz explained that the Best Drama Series category’s number of nominees can vary from year to year, influenced by changes in judging rules. Last year allowed for six nominees due to a different structure, which included subcategories based on the number of episodes. This year, the rules have been adjusted to simplify the nomination criteria, aiming for fairness and a standard that reflects the industry’s best achievements.
Addressing the decline of daytime dramas, Schwartz acknowledged several trends that have contributed to the reduction in soap operas. Changing demographics and viewing habits, particularly the rise of streaming services and binge-watching culture, have transformed audience engagement. However, she remains hopeful about a potential resurgence of the genre, citing the success of “Beyond the Gates” and existing shows like “The Bold and The Beautiful” and “Days of Our Lives” in adapting to new platforms.
Schwartz’s perspective is that the soap opera format can be reimagined, potentially leading to innovative approaches in storytelling and distribution that resonate with today’s audiences. This adaptability may well position the genre for a bright future.
In a broader context, Schwartz’s leadership and vision for the Daytime Emmys reflect a commitment to recognizing excellence in daytime programming and fostering growth within the industry. Her insights also emphasize the evolving landscape of television and the importance of accessibility and innovation in engaging viewers.