The 2026 Emmy Awards, hosted by Mariska Hargitay, celebrated excellence in television across a wide range of categories. Among the most nominated shows were The Pitt, which received 25 nods, followed closely by Hacks with 24 and Widow’s Bay with 19. Jean Smart took home the award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in Hacks, tying Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Cloris Leachman for the most acting wins in Emmy history. Kate O'Flynn was honored for her supporting role in Widow’s Bay, marking another highlight in the comedy category. In the drama series category, several acclaimed shows were up for awards, including The Diplomat, The Gilded Age, and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. Sterling K. Brown won Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role in Paradise, while other notable nominees included Gary Oldman, Mark Ruffalo, Rufus Sewell, and Noah Wyle. For lead actress in a drama series, Carrie Coon, Chase Infiniti, Keri Russell, Rhea Seehorn, and Zendaya were among the nominees, reflecting a strong and diverse field. The comedy series category featured Abbott Elementary, The Bear, Hacks, and Only Murders in the Building, among others. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Steve Carell, Matthew Rhys, Jason Segel, and Martin Short were nominated for lead actor, while Quinta Brunson, Ayo Edebiri, Elle Fanning, Lisa Kudrow, and Jean Smart competed for lead actress. These performances highlighted the continued popularity and innovation in the comedy genre. In the limited or anthology series category, shows like Beef and Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette were nominated, with Riz Ahmed, Jason Bateman, and Oscar Isaac among the lead actor contenders. For lead actress in this category, Claire Danes, Carey Mulligan, Sally Field, and Sarah Snook were recognized. Supporting roles in both drama and comedy series saw a range of familiar and emerging talent, from Allison Janney and Hannah Einbinder to supporting actors like Colman Domingo and Nick Offerman. The awards also acknowledged guest appearances and television movies, with notable mentions in both categories.