Artios Awards 2025: Global Ceremonies Celebrate Excellence in Casting, Honor John Papsidera

LONDON, NEW YORK, LOS ANGELES – The Casting Society (CSA) honored the pivotal role of casting professionals across film, television, theatre, and commercials during the 40th Annual Artios Awards, presented by Spotlight. The landmark event took place on February 12, 2025, with ceremonies held concurrently across three major international cultural hubs: London, UK; New York City, NY; and Los Angeles, CA.

Often considered the backbone of successful productions, casting directors are vital in bringing stories to life by assembling the talent that captivates audiences. The Artios Awards stand as the premier recognition of their craft, celebrating the skill, insight, and dedication required to find the right actors for every role.

A Trio of Celebrations

The multi-city format underscored the global reach and impact of the casting profession. Each location featured a distinct host presiding over the evening’s tributes and presentations.

In Los Angeles, CA, the ceremony was held at the prestigious The Beverly Hilton. Guiding attendees through the night’s proceedings was three-time Emmy Award nominee Janelle James, known for her sharp wit and engaging presence.

The New York City, NY, celebration unfolded at the historic Edison Ballroom. Comedian and host Jordan Carlos brought his unique comedic style to the stage, entertaining guests and nominees alike.

Across the Atlantic, the London, UK, portion of the awards was hosted by acclaimed actress and writer Susan Wokoma, adding a touch of British flair to the international event.

Recognizing Outstanding Contribution: The Hoyt Bowers Award

A significant moment during the Los Angeles ceremony was the presentation of The Hoyt Bowers Award. This esteemed honor recognizes individuals who have demonstrated sustained excellence and made outstanding contributions to the casting profession throughout their careers. The 2025 recipient was John Papsidera.

Papsidera, a highly respected figure in casting, was celebrated for his impactful work that has shaped numerous notable projects, reflecting the high standards and influence the Hoyt Bowers Award represents within the industry.

Celebrating Craft Across Mediums

The Artios Awards encompass a wide spectrum of categories, reflecting the diverse platforms on which casting directors ply their trade. Recognition is given for work in film, television (covering both scripted and unscripted formats), commercials, and theatre. Additionally, awards acknowledge excellence in streaming and short form film projects.

The nominees represent the best in the field, showcasing the critical eye and deep understanding of talent required to build compelling ensembles. The awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also highlight the collaborative nature of casting within the broader production process.

Film and Television Highlights

While nominees were celebrated across all categories, the Big Budget Drama category in film drew particular attention, featuring a lineup of highly anticipated and critically acclaimed productions. Nominees in this prominent category included “Blitz,” “Civil War,” “Dune: Part Two,” “Gladiator II,” and “Queer.” These nominations underscore the complex and demanding nature of casting large-scale cinematic projects.

The breadth of television nominees, spanning scripted dramas, comedies, and unscripted reality or documentary series, further illustrated the varied challenges and successes within the medium. Commercials and theatre casting were also prominently featured, recognizing the specialized skills needed for these distinct platforms.

The Road to the Awards: Nomination Timeline

The announcement process for the 40th Annual Artios Awards unfolded over several months leading up to the February 12, 2025, ceremonies. Nominees for television, theatre, commercials, streaming, and short form film categories were initially announced on November 1. This early announcement provided recognition for a significant portion of the nominated work across various media.

The nominations for theatrical film categories, including the high-profile Big Budget Drama nominees, were subsequently determined. Submissions for these categories were due by December 16, allowing time for the judging committees to review and select the finalists celebrated at the awards.

The 40th Artios Awards, presented by Spotlight, reaffirmed the essential role of casting directors in shaping the landscape of entertainment, paying tribute to their artistry and significant contributions to productions worldwide through simultaneous events in London, New York, and Los Angeles.