Mariska Hargitay to Host 2026 Emmy Awards

Mariska Hargitay, best known for her 27‑year run as Olivia Benson on NBC’s Law & Order: SVU, has been announced as the solo host of the 78th Emmy Awards on September 14, 2026. NBC confirmed she will be the first woman to emcee the ceremony alone in 15 years, and she is also a nominee for the event. The announcement was posted on Instagram by NBC, Peacock and Hargitay herself.

In the weeks leading up to the news, Hargitay made high‑profile public appearances, including courtside at the NBA Finals, riding on the New York Knicks championship parade float, and performing on Broadway in "Every Brilliant Thing." She also attended Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding and continues her long‑standing role on SVU for its 28th season.