Betty Gilpin has secured her first Emmy Award, triumphing in the Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series category at the 2026 Creative Arts Emmy Awards. The ceremony took place on September 6 and celebrated the standout performances of the past year.
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Gilpin’s award was given for her role in the Apple TV series “Widow’s Bay,” where she portrays Sarah Westcott Warren, a pivotal character tied to the town’s haunting legacy. This marks a significant achievement in Gilpin’s career, as it is both her first win and her fourth nomination for the prestigious award.
The competition in the category was intense, featuring several well-known nominees. Jamie Lee Curtis was nominated for her performance as Donna Berzatto in the acclaimed series “The Bear,” while other contenders included Leslie Bibb, Cherry Jones, Laurie Metcalf, Kaitlin Olson, and Lauren Weedman, all of whom have showcased their talents in the popular series “Hacks.”
In “Widow’s Bay,” Gilpin’s character is intricately linked to the town’s eerie backstory, appearing in flashbacks that delve into the narrative set in 1702. The series combines elements of horror and comedy, captivating audiences as it reveals the reason behind the mysterious aura enveloping the town. In a conversation with IndieWire prior to the ceremony, Gilpin expressed her enthusiasm, stating the series is “what people f—ing want,” and reflected on the collaborative effort behind the show’s success.
Jamie Lee Curtis, 67, brought depth to her role as Donna, the mother in “The Bear,” who is dedicated to reconciling her family’s estranged relationships. This was not Curtis’s first Emmy nomination; she previously won in 2024 for the same role, reinforcing her status as a respected figure in the industry.
Leslie Bibb made her Emmy debut with a nomination for her portrayal of Monica in “Hacks.” In the series’ fifth season, she showcased her agility in a comedic role that Bibb described as an “acting master class.” Her excitement about receiving this recognition reflects the gratitude she holds for the creative team behind the series.
Cherry Jones, another nominee from “Hacks,” has an extensive Emmy history, with multiple nominations and significant wins. She has received praise for her role as the comedian Kelly, and during her time on set, she noted that the creators anticipated her episode might be one of the funniest yet.
Laurie Metcalf, who reprised her role in “Hacks,” adds to her illustrious career with yet another nomination. Having garnered 14 nominations throughout her journey, Metcalf’s talent continues to resonate with audiences and critics alike. Her earlier wins include three for her work in “Roseanne,” highlighting her longstanding impact in television.
Kaitlin Olson and Lauren Weedman also showcased their comedic prowess in “Hacks.” Olson, who plays Deborah’s estranged daughter, has garnered a reputation for her compelling performance across the show’s various seasons. Meanwhile, Weedman’s role as the quirky mayor allowed her to explore a liberating and dynamic character, marking her first Emmy nomination since starting her career.
The 78th Emmy Awards were held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles over two days, with the ceremony cut into a single broadcast for viewers. The Primetime Emmy Awards, set to take place on September 14, will feature a live presentation hosted by actress Mariska Hargitay, further celebrating the achievements of performers and creators across the television landscape.
With Gilpin’s victory and the recognition of the outstanding nominees, the Emmy Awards continue to highlight the creativity and brilliance found within the realm of television, reflecting a diverse array of performances that resonate with audiences worldwide.