Comedian Jimmy Kimmel has once again proven his mettle as a game show host, securing the award for Outstanding Host for a Game Show for his role in ABC’s “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” at the 2026 Creative Arts Emmys. The ceremony took place on 5 September in Los Angeles, where Kimmel proudly accepted the accolade, marking a successful continuation of his hosting journey which began in 2020.
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Kimmel’s victory comes as he repeated his success from the previous year, solidifying his position in the competitive landscape of game show hosting. “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” was initially popularised in the U.S. by the late Regis Philbin, whose influence Kimmel acknowledged in his previous acceptance speech. He praised Philbin as the original standard-bearer for the show’s success, emphasising how instrumental he was in its ongoing popularity.
The 2026 Emmys had a diverse pool of nominees in the Outstanding Host category. Among those vying for the title were renowned figures such as Steve Harvey for “Celebrity Family Feud,” Ken Jennings for “Jeopardy!,” Colin Jost for “Pop Culture Jeopardy!” and Martin Short for “Match Game.” Kimmel’s win, therefore, reflects not only his skill as a host but also the competitive spirit that defines the genre.
Steve Harvey, who has been a familiar face on “Celebrity Family Feud” for over a decade, was nominated alongside Kimmel. Known for his charismatic approach, Harvey humorously shared insights about the nuances of game show hosting, noting the balance required between being engaging and respectful. He has received four Emmy nominations for his efforts on the show, which features celebrity contestants playing for a range of charitable causes.
Ken Jennings, who took over hosting duties on “Jeopardy!” following the death of Alex Trebek, has also made his mark in the realm of game shows. He first gained fame as a contestant, achieving a record 74 consecutive wins. Jennings was nominated for his role in the celebrity edition of the show, which has enjoyed massive longevity since its debut over 40 years ago. In a recent interview, he spoke to the show’s enduring appeal across various demographics, highlighting its ability to bring people together through knowledge and trivia.
Colin Jost, widely recognised for his work on “Saturday Night Live,” has transitioned into the game show arena, hosting “Pop Culture Jeopardy!” since its premiere in 2024. Jost has earned nominations for his performance, although he reflects on the challenges of stepping into a role previously held by industry giants like Trebek. His comedic skill continues to shine, as he anticipates the possibility of making his own mark on this beloved format.
Meanwhile, Martin Short has revitalised the classic game show “Match Game,” which he began hosting in 2025. Short recalls fond memories of watching the show as a child and enjoys the lively dynamics of celebrity editing. Acknowledged for his previous contributions to television, he has a remarkable 23 Emmy nominations to his name, showcasing his broad talents across multiple genres.
The Creative Arts Emmys ceremony also featured notable wins for other categories, with “Jeopardy!” claiming the title of Outstanding Game Show during the event. These achievements highlight the competitive nature of the television landscape and celebrate the creativity and dedication of those behind the scenes.
The Creative Arts Emmys will air on 12 September at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FXX, with streaming available on Hulu the following day. The Primetime Emmy Awards, which will honour the best in television, will be broadcast live on NBC and Peacock on 14 September, with actress Mariska Hargitay set to host the event.
As Kimmel enjoys another accolade, the landscape of game shows continues to evolve, with personalities like him, Harvey, Jennings, Jost, and Short leading the way. Each host brings their unique flair and approach to these classic formats, ensuring their ongoing popularity as they engage and entertain audiences across the globe.