Top TV Performances of 2025 Identified by NPR Critic

LOS ANGELES, CA — NPR television critic Eric Deggans has released his list of the best TV performances of 2025 so far. The selection features standout roles from popular shows, including Noah Wyle in The Pitt and Catherine O'Hara in The Last of Us.

Deggans highlighted performances from a variety of actors across different genres. “Television is about spending time with performers and characters you find compelling,” he said, emphasizing how the unique experience of TV affects audience connection.

Tramell Tillman received praise for his role as Seth Milchick in Severance, where he navigates a complex corporate culture. “Tillman often managed to communicate all this complexity with few words,” Deggans noted, showcasing the depth of his character.

Meanwhile, Carrie Coon, starring in The White Lotus, delivered a powerful monologue that captivated audiences. Deggans described how her performance was “an amazing example of a performer’s ability to turn an awkward storytelling curve into a cathartic experience.”

Uzo Aduba earned recognition for her magnetic portrayal of detective Cordelia Cupp in The Residence. Deggans remarked that the show creatively twisted the mystery genre with Aduba at its center.

Noah Wyle’s performance in The Pitt also stands out, particularly during an emotional scene in the dramatic series set in Pittsburgh’s emergency room. “Wyle owned just about every scene from the very first minutes of this series,” Deggans explained.

Owen Cooper was noted for his role in Adolescence, where his performance as Jamie Miller was described as capturing the character’s unpredictability. Deggans highlighted Cooper’s impressive ability to depict both charm and volatility in the gripping storyline.

Finally, Deggans pointed to Catherine O’Hara’s versatility, calling her a “powerhouse supporting actress.” She has excelled in both The Last of Us and The Studio, where she brings a blend of humor and drama to her characters. As the critic explained, “in both roles, she’s the perfectly calibrated combination of funny and dramatic required to make things sparkle.”