Live Emmy Awards 2026: Updates on Predictions, Winners, and Host Mariska Hargitay

The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards take center stage as television’s prestigious event unfolds at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles. Viewers can catch all the excitement on NBC or stream live on Peacock at 5 p.m. Pacific. Ahead of the ceremony, E! will begin its blue carpet coverage at 2 p.m., celebrating NBC’s 100th anniversary.

This year’s awards feature top nominees such as the comedy-horror breakout Widow’s Bay, the second season of The Pitt, and the final season of Hacks, known for breaking the record with the most nominations for a comedy. In the spotlight is Zendaya, aiming for her third win as lead actress in a drama for Euphoria.

How to Watch the 2026 Emmys

Various executive producers and NBCUniversal executives have prepared for this year’s awards, honoring shows that captivated audiences. The event will acknowledge the year’s standout series, some returning this fall, others bidding farewell.

Rob Reiner wins posthumous Emmy for his guest appearance in The Bear

Rob Reiner received a posthumous award for his guest role in The Bear. On the second night of the Emmy ceremonies, his performance as Albert Schnurr earned him the guest actor award in a comedy series. Reiner had previously won two Emmys for All in the Family.

2026 Emmy Predictions

Over recent years, the Emmy Awards have focused on select favorite shows. Previously, The Studio, The Pitt, Severance, and Adolescence were favorites. This year, Widow’s Bay, with its multiple awards, stands out, although the competition remains fierce.

Mariska Hargitay as Host

Mariska Hargitay, known for her iconic role as Capt. Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, now hosts the Emmy Awards. As she steps into this new role, she has creative ideas to keep the show engaging and concise.

Nominees and Favorites

As the Emmys approach, top nominations are turning heads. Predictions lean towards Widow’s Bay for comedy, while The Pitt‘s second season is favored in drama. For limited series, DTF St. Louis is a strong contender, boosted by acting wins from David Harbour and Linda Cardellini.

Record-Breaking Nominations

HBO Max’s Hacks has set a record with 24 nominations for its last season, surpassing previous records held by The Bear and The Studio. This achievement highlights the show’s significant impact during its run.

2026 Emmy Nominations

The nominations for the 78th Emmy Awards have been announced, with HBO’s The Pitt leading with 25 nominations. Hacks follows closely with 24 nominations. Apple TV’s Widow’s Bay and Pluribus also emerge as significant contenders, with 19 and 18 nods respectively.