'Severance' Cinematographer Jessica Lee Gagné Breaks New Ground with Dual Emmy Nomination

Jessica Lee Gagné, the cinematographer for the critically acclaimed series 'Severance', has achieved a remarkable milestone. As of August 17, 2025, she has become the first woman ever to be simultaneously Emmy nominated for both Directing for a Drama Series and Cinematography for a Drama Series, both for her work on 'Severance'.

Gagné's journey with the show began as the cinematographer, where she was instrumental in establishing the unique visual style of 'Severance', a series about people who are effectively split into two consciousnesses. In the second season, Gagné took on the additional role of director for one of the episodes, showcasing her versatility and talent.

According to Gagné, the experience of directing was both exhilarating and overwhelming. She expressed a newfound appreciation for the immense effort and decision-making required of directors, having previously worked primarily as a cinematographer. Gagné credits the support of the 'Severance' team and the show's established foundation as crucial factors that allowed her to take on the directing role.

As of the current date, Gagné is focusing her efforts on finding and pushing through her own directorial projects, including an erotic thriller. While her future involvement with 'Severance' remains uncertain, her historic dual Emmy nomination is a testament to her exceptional skills and the industry's recognition of her talent.