Mariska Hargitay has officially been named host of the 2026 Emmy Awards, making her the first woman to take on the honor of solo hosting in 15 years.
The Television Academy confirmed the big news in a statement on Tuesday (July 7), revealing that the Law and Order: Special Victims Unit Icon will lead the 78th annual ceremony live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on September 14.
The high-profile concert marks a landmark moment for television’s biggest night, which will be broadcast live in the U.S. and global markets on NBC and simulcast on Peacock.
The choice of the 62-year-old actress aligns perfectly with NBC’s big celebrations this fall, as the network marks its 100th anniversary.
According to the network’s official announcement, having the Emmy Award-winning actor, director, producer and television icon host the show is a direct nod to his storied on-screen legacy.
Hargitay, who won the trophy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006 for her legendary portrayal of Captain Olivia Benson, expressed immense gratitude for being chosen to lead the elite team of Hollywood talent on stage.
Reflecting on this milestone in his career, Hargitay emphasized the unifying power of the medium.
“Highlighting important stories has been the heart of my career,” Hargitay said in the announcement.
“It is a great honor for me to host the 78th Emmy Awards, on the occasion of my beloved’s 100th birthday. BNCand celebrate this extraordinary community of storytellers.”
She went on to explain that whether someone works as an actor, director, costume designer or sound designer, everyone in the industry shares the distinctive privilege of creating art that brings people together.
Hargitay added that no matter how, where or when audiences choose to watch, people remain deeply connected through the sharing of laughter, tears, love of stories and mutual excitement to see what happens next.
Her appointment places her in incredibly rare company, making her only the fourth woman to lead the prestigious awards ceremony solo or as a team this century.
