Mariska Hargitay, best known for her role as Captain Olivia Benson on "Law and Order: SVU," will be the first female host of the Emmy Awards in 15 years. The Television Academy announced on July 7, 2026, that Hargitay will host the 78th Emmy Awards, scheduled for September 14, 2026.
In a statement, Hargitay expressed her honor in hosting the event during the 100th birthday year of NBC, saying, "It’s my great honor to host the 78th Emmy Awards — in the 100th birthday year of my beloved NBC — and celebrate this extraordinary community of storytellers."
She emphasized the unifying power of television, stating, "Whether it’s an actor or a director, a costumer or a sound designer, we are all so privileged to take part in creating television that unites us. Regardless of how, where or when we watch, we are together in our laughter, our tears, our love of stories — and our delighted anticipation to see what happens next."
According to Variety, Hargitay is the first woman to host the Emmys since Jane Lynch, star of "Glee," in 2011. Hargitay has also been active in anti-domestic violence and anti-sexual assault advocacy, having spoken about domestic abuse at the White House alongside former President Obama and then-Vice President Biden in 2010.
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