Mariska Hargitay to host 2026 Emmy Awards

Mariska Hargitay, star of ‘Law & Order: SVU’, has been announced as the host for the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, scheduled for September 14, 2026, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

Hargitay revealed on ‘The Today Show’ that she was initially shocked by the offer from Pearlena Igbokwe, chairman of television studios, NBC Entertainment, and Peacock scripted. Because the role is historically filled by comedians, Hargitay admitted she initially feared the call might be news that she was being fired.

After taking the weekend to consider the opportunity, Hargitay accepted the role, noting her desire to take on new challenges. She will be the first woman to host the ceremony in 15 years, following Jane Lynch in 2011.