Mariska Hargitay has been officially named host of the 2026 Emmy Awards, making her the first woman to take on the solo hosting honor in 15 years.
The Television Academy confirmed the important news in a press release on Tuesday, July 7, revealing that the Law & Order: Special Victims Unit Icon will lead the 78th annual ceremony live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on September 14.
The high-profile concert marks a milestone for television’s biggest night, which will air live in the United States and global markets on NBC and simultaneously on Peacock.
The choice of the 62-year-old actress aligns perfectly with NBC’s huge celebrations this fall, as the station celebrates its centennial.
According to the network’s official announcement, having the Emmy Award-winning actor, director, producer and television icon emcee the broadcast is a direct nod to his storied on-screen legacy.
Hargitay, who famously won the trophy for Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006 for her legendary performance as Captain Olivia Benson, expressed her immense gratitude for being chosen to lead Hollywood’s elite team of talent on stage.
Reflecting on the important milestone in her career, Hargitay highlighted the unifying power of the medium.
“Breaking important stories has been the heart of my career,” Hargitay said in the announcement.
“It is my great honor to host the 78th Emmy Awards, in the centennial year of my beloved NBCand celebrate this extraordinary community of storytellers.”
He went on to explain that whether someone works as an actor, director, costumer, or sound designer, everyone in the industry shares the distinct privilege of creating art that brings people together.
Hargitay added that no matter how, where or when audiences choose to watch, people remain deeply connected through shared laughter and tears, a love of stories and the mutual excitement of seeing what happens next.
Her appointment puts her in incredibly rare company, making her the fourth woman to lead the prestigious awards show alone or as part of a team this century.
