The e4m Play Streaming Media Awards 2025 have not only grown in prestige but have also evolved in how content is judged. Varun Shah, a senior leader at Publicis Groupe, returned as a jury member this year and shared insights into how this edition’s judging process stood out.
"This time, we did things a little differently. With fewer jurors in the room, the conversations were more engaging and in-depth. We had some extremely intriguing discussions, where we were both brutal and balanced in our assessments," he revealed.
Shah emphasized the commitment to recognizing diverse content—from mainstream hits to lesser-known gems.
"We ensured that content was judged fairly. Even if a show wasn’t widely known, if it was exceptional, it had to win. The focus was on encouraging content that people would want to explore, even if they hadn’t heard of it before," he said.
Having served as a jury member last year as well, Shah acknowledged the growth of the awards and the increasing participation from the industry.
"It’s good to be back. Each year, the process is getting better, and this time, the turnout has been fantastic. The e4m Play Awards continue to evolve, and I’m excited to see where it goes from here," he added.
With the awards night just around the corner, Shah’s insights reinforce the transparency and credibility of the selection process, making the 6th edition of the e4m Play Awards a must-watch event in the entertainment industry.