September 14, 2026

TV’s Biggest Night: Highlights and Snubs

Television’s stars take the spotlight as the Emmy Awards unfold. Here’s what you need to know about this significant event.

HBO Dominates the Scene

HBO stands out with 122 nominations, leading networks and streaming services. The medical drama “The Pitt” secures 25 nominations. Additionally, the final season of the comedy “Hacks” sets a record with 24 nominations in a single year for the comedy category.

Apple TV’s Ascendancy

Apple TV achieves its best nomination year, aided by popular series “Pluribus” by Vince Gilligan with 18 nominations and “Widow’s Bay” by Katie Dippold claiming 19.

Historical Hosting

Mariska Hargitay, known for “Law & Order: SVU,” becomes the first woman to host the Emmys in 15 years, expressing immense honor for the role.

Colbert’s Grand Exit

A high note for Colbert’s show, ending its CBS tenure with nine nominations.

Despite CBS’s cancellation due to financial reasons, Colbert’s criticism of former President Trump sparked debate. Notably, the show seized five Creative Arts Emmys, including disrupting John Oliver’s writing streak.

Snubs Mark the Event

Despite the cultural impact of its farewell season, “Stranger Things” misses best drama nods. Taylor Sheridan’s “Landman” and “The Madison,” as well as HBO’s acclaimed “Industry,” also face notable omissions. Similarly, “The Amazing Race” misses out in the reality competition category.

In acting, figures like Kathy Bates, Kristen Bell, and Ashley Padilla did not find place.

Ariana Madix Recognition

Ariana Madix celebrated her first Emmy nomination for hosting “Love Island USA,” a high point during her time in Fiji for the show.

A Memorable Red Carpet

Stars descend at the Peacock Theater for the year’s largest television celebration, with notable appearances including Shabana Azeez and Matty Matheson.

Rob Reiner’s Posthumous Honor

Rob Reiner’s posthumous award for his guest role on “The Bear” sets a historic gap since his first win.

The crowd honored Reiner during the Creative Arts ceremony with a standing ovation, marking a significant achievement in Television Academy history.

Hosting Duties for Hargitay

Mariska Hargitay marks a significant return of female hosts to the Emmy stage. Her personal film “My Mom Jayne” also earn her Emmy nomination.

Noah Wyle’s Potential Milestone

Noah Wyle might break new ground as the first actor to win both acting and directing Emmys in the same year for “The Pitt.” Previous nominees, Telly Savalas and Jason Bateman, didn’t achieve this feat.

TV Academy Hall of Fame Inductions

Notable figures joined the Hall of Fame, including the “South Park” creators, Ed Bradley, and Ted Danson. Trey Parker acknowledged the “South Park” audience’s important role.

Taylor Swift’s Eventful Year

Swift makes headlines for her Emmy nod and significant life events. Her nomination for “The Eras Tour” met with losses at the awards but future nominations, like for an original song for “Toy Story 5,” could add to her accolades.

Multiple Nominations Recognized

Jason Bateman tops with four nominations, including for acting, directing, and producing. Colman Domingo, Laurie Metcalf, and others secured multiple acknowledgments in various categories.

“Heated Rivalry” Eligibility Issue

Despite airing in the U.S., “Heated Rivalry” isn’t Emmy eligible due to its Canadian production status. The series faced restrictions, yet actor Connor Storrie received recognition for hosting “SNL.”

Telecast Changes Cause Uproar

The Television Academy’s decision to move certain categories to pre-telecast ceremonies stirred discontent among unions emphasizing the importance of honoring talents within the broadcast.

NBC Hits Milestones

The Emmys air on NBC during its centennial year, highlighting decades of trailblazing achievements like “SNL.” It marks the 26th Emmy broadcast for the network, showcasing its long-standing influence.

Reporters Daniel Arkin, Angela Yang, Rebecca Keegan, and Chloe Melas contributed insights to this coverage.

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