Emmys Host Mariska Hargitay Brings Her 3 Kids and Husband Peter Hermann to the Red Carpet

Mariska Hargitay, a notable figure from the long-running series “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” stepped into the role of host for the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards this year, marking a significant milestone as the first woman to hold the position since Jane Lynch in 2011. Hargitay, who is 62 years old, made a grand entrance at the prestigious event alongside her family, making it a truly memorable occasion.

The Emmy Awards, widely regarded as one of the most important nights in television, saw Hargitay accompanied by her husband, Peter Hermann, and their three children—Amaya, 15, Andrew, 13, and August, 20. The family showcased a unified front on the red carpet, dressed in coordinating outfits that added to the evening’s festivities. Hargitay and her daughter embraced a glamorous look, donning striking red sequin and fringe dresses, while Hermann and their sons complemented the family aesthetic with classic black suits and bow ties.

In a pre-awards interview, Hargitay shared insights into her preparations for hosting the event. She expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I’ve been preparing by just immersing myself in it.” Collaborating with a talented writing team, notably the Colbert crew, has added to her confidence. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert recently clinched an Outstanding Writing award at the Creative Arts Emmys, further bolstering Hargitay’s excitement about her hosting duties.

The actress, who married Hermann in 2004, highlighted the support she has received from her family throughout the journey. “I have the world’s greatest husband who’s just been with me every step of the way,” she remarked, adding that her children and friends were equally excited for her hosting role. Hargitay described her experience leading up to the Emmys as “having the time of my life”.

As the evening unfolded, Hargitay couldn’t divulge specific details about her hosting plans due to an “Academy of Arts and Sciences oath.” In a light-hearted moment, she joked about the secrecy involved, stating, “It was a whole thing. A lot of incense, so much reciting.” Nevertheless, she reassured viewers that they could expect a host who was immensely excited and truly honoured to be part of the ceremony.

Reflecting on her hosting role, Hargitay expressed her dedication to storytelling, saying, “Bringing important stories into the light has been the heartbeat of my career.” She described her honour in hosting the award show during the 100th anniversary of NBC, underlining the significance of the event and the community of professionals contributing to the television landscape. “We are all so privileged to take part in creating television that unites us,” she noted, emphasising the collective joy and anticipation shared amongst audiences.

Hargitay disclosed that initially, she believed the offer to host the Emmys was a joke. Upon being approached by Pearlena Igbokwe, head of the network, she was taken aback. “I thought she was kidding… It was probably the farthest thing from my mind that I thought she was going to say,” she shared, reflecting on her surprise.

In addition to hosting, Hargitay’s year has been remarkable in terms of accolades, as she secured two awards at the Creative Arts Emmys for her documentary “My Mom Jayne.” Receiving the awards for Outstanding Documentary and Outstanding Directing for a Documentary amplified her excitement as she prepared to host. Hargitay described this duality of roles as “more extraordinary than I have the words to express,” highlighting her gratitude for the opportunity to tell impactful stories through her work.

Hargitay’s hosting of the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards promises to blend her passion for storytelling with a celebration of the television industry. The event, set to air on September 14 via NBC and Peacock, aims to showcase the shared experiences and connections fostered through television narratives, making it a night to honour the craft of storytelling in all its forms.