Female representation declines in 2025-26 television season

A study by the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film at San Diego State University reveals a decline in female representation across the 2025-26 television season. The research indicates that the percentage of female creators on streaming services fell from 36% in 2024-25 to 24%, a level lower than what was recorded in 2017-18.

On broadcast networks, the percentage of women creators saw a slight decrease from 20% to 19%. The study also noted a dip in female major characters on streaming platforms, dropping from 49% to 44%. In contrast, broadcast television showed no significant decline in female major roles, moving from 47% to 46%.

Despite these statistical declines, the study suggests that Emmy nominations indicate high-quality work from women when they are granted opportunities. Martha Lauzen, the study's lead researcher, noted that shows with at least one female creator tend to employ higher percentages of women in roles such as directors, writers, and editors compared to shows with exclusively male creators.