Mariska Hargitay, known for her iconic role in “Law & Order: SVU,” has been announced as the host for the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, set to take place this autumn. The ceremony will occur at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on 14 September 2026, as confirmed by NBC on Tuesday, 7 July.
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Reflecting on this new milestone in her career, Hargitay expressed her fondness for storytelling and community in a heartfelt statement. “Bringing important stories into the light has been the heartbeat of my career,” she remarked. She added that hosting the Emmys during the 100th anniversary of NBC is a significant honour, allowing her to celebrate the extraordinary array of talent in the television industry.
Over the years, the Emmy Awards have recognised numerous contributors to the field, from actors to directors and costume designers. Hargitay highlighted the communal experience of watching television, stating, “Regardless of how, where or when we watch… we are together in our laughter, our tears, our love of stories — and our delighted anticipation to see what happens next.”
This year’s Emmys will showcase Hargitay as the first female host since Jane Lynch in 2011. Recent hosts have included notable figures like Nate Bargatze, Eugene and Dan Levy, Anthony Anderson, and Keenan Thompson, making Hargitay’s selection an exciting addition to the tradition of the event.
The nominees for the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards will be unveiled on 8 July, with anticipation building as fans and industry professionals alike await the announcements. Hargitay’s involvement comes amidst a year of notable achievements for her, including her recent Broadway debut in “Every Brilliant Thing.”
In a previous interview, she reflected on the challenges she faced during her theatrical run, articulating that stepping onto the stage was both daunting and exhilarating. “I had no idea what I was in for,” Hargitay shared before her performances began, acknowledging the difficulties inherent in transferring her skills from television to live theatre.
She has received eight nominations for her role as Olivia Benson in “Law & Order: SVU,” with her most recent nod in 2011. Hargitay won the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006. “SVU” itself has enjoyed critical acclaim, having garnered six awards from 23 nominations throughout its history.
As Hargitay prepares to return to the set to film the show’s 28th season, she took a moment to thank her team after completing her Broadway performances. Her dedication to her craft and community continues to resonate, and her fans are eagerly awaiting both her return to television and her hosting duties at the Emmys.
The 2026 Emmy Awards promises to be a memorable occasion, honouring the talent and creativity that enriches television today. Viewers can tune in live on NBC and Peacock at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on 14 September, where Hargitay will undoubtedly shine as she guides the evening’s celebrations.