Mariska Hargitay to Host 2026 Emmys

Mariska Hargitay will host the 2026 Emmys, it has been announced. The Law & Order: SVU star was surprised by the offer, which came from Pearlena Igbokwe, chairman of television studios, NBC Entertainment and Peacock scripted.

Hargitay is the first Emmys host not primarily known for comedy to preside over the telecast since 2008. She won an Emmy in 2006 for her role as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, and her HBO documentary about her mother, Jayne Mansfield, is up for three Emmys.

The actress is also working on getting Jalen Brunson, a fan of Law & Order: SVU, to appear on the show. Brunson has expressed interest in appearing on the program, and Hargitay has pitched him to make an appearance next season.

Law & Order: SVU will begin its 28th season on NBC in the fall. Hargitay will be the first woman to host the Emmys since Jane Lynch in 2011.

## Why it matters The announcement of Hargitay as host of the 2026 Emmys is significant, as it marks a departure from the traditional comedic hosts of the awards show. Hargitay's experience as a dramatic actress and her work on Law & Order: SVU make her a unique choice for the role. The fact that she is also working on getting Jalen Brunson to appear on her show highlights her ability to bring together different worlds and create new opportunities.

Hargitay's decision to host the Emmys was not taken lightly, as she initially thought the offer was a joke. However, after considering it, she decided to take on the challenge, saying 'Why not?' This attitude reflects her willingness to take on new challenges and push boundaries in her career.

The announcement of Hargitay as host of the 2026 Emmys is a significant moment in the entertainment industry, and it will be interesting to see how she brings her unique perspective and experience to the role.