Television’s elite gathered at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater on Monday evening for the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, marking the biggest night on the small-screen calendar. Mariska Hargitay is set to host the ceremony for the first time, guiding viewers through a celebration of the year’s most acclaimed series and creators.
The event features nominees from highly discussed programs such as “The Pitt” and “Widow’s Bay.” Early arrivals on the red carpet included “Dancing with the Stars” judge Derek Hough and former NSYNC member Lance Bass, who were among the first to arrive ahead of the telecast.
The Television Academy recently announced that several award categories will no longer be presented during the live broadcast. In an effort to provide a “fresh new take on the Emmys broadcast,” the academy moved categories including writing and directing for limited series or movies, as well as supporting acting awards for limited series or movies, to the Creative Arts Emmys weekend. Television Academy chair Chris Abrego stated the decision was made to allow for more creativity within the main show.
A star-studded roster of presenters has been confirmed, including Florence Pugh, Zendaya, and Sarah Michelle Gellar. Other talent taking the stage comprises Odessa A’zion, David Boreanaz, Linda Cardellini, Macaulay Culkin, Alan Cumming, Sally Field, Jon Hamm, David Harbour, Marcello Hernández, Kate Jackson, Peter Krause, Cheryl Ladd, Dan Levy, Julianna Margulies, Annie Murphy, Niecy Nash-Betts, Keke Palmer, Amanda Peet, Amy Poehler, Rachel Sennott, and Jaclyn Smith.
In the race for nominations, the medical drama “The Pitt” leads with 25 nods, including five major drama categories for outstanding series, directing, and writing. Noah Wyle returns to the host’s stage hoping for a second consecutive win in outstanding lead actor in a drama series, having taken home the trophy last year for his portrayal of Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch. Katherine LaNasa, who plays nurse Dana Evans, is also nominated for supporting actress following her 2025 win, facing competition from co-stars Taylor Dearden and Fiona Dourif.
HBO Max’s “Hacks” follows closely with 24 nominations and six major category bids. Jean Smart is seeking a historic fifth consecutive Emmy for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series for her role as Deborah Vance. Hannah Einbinder, who won supporting actress in a comedy in 2025 for her role as writer Ava Daniels, will compete against co-star Megan Stalter this year.
Moving writing and directing to the Creative Arts Emmys feels like a cheap trick to pad the live show. Not fresh, just corporate.
The Pitt leading with 25 noms is huge. Noah Wyle taking back-to-back wins would be legendary. Can’t wait!