Mariska Hargitay Says She Was ‘Shocked’ to Be Asked to Host 2026 Emmys

Mariska Hargitay was surprised when she was asked to host the 2026 Emmy Awards, saying she initially thought the call from NBCUniversal executive Pearlena Igbokwe might mean she was being fired.

Hargitay, best known for playing Olivia Benson on “Law & Order: SVU,” said on the “Today” show that she was backstage preparing for her Broadway play, “Every Brilliant Thing,” when Igbokwe called. She initially thought the offer was a joke because Emmy hosts have traditionally been comedians or entertainers with hosting experience.

After thinking about the offer over the weekend, Hargitay decided to accept. She said she was excited to take on a new challenge and especially pleased to become the first woman to host the Emmys since Jane Lynch in 2011.

Hargitay won an Emmy in 2006 for her role on “Law & Order: SVU.” Her documentary about her mother, actress Jayne Mansfield, “My Mom Jayne,” is also nominated for three Emmys this year, including best documentary or nonfiction special.

The 78th Emmy Awards will air live on NBC and Peacock on Sept. 14 at 8 p.m. ET from the Peacock Theater. “The Pitt” leads this year’s nominations with 25, followed by “Hacks” with 24 and “Widow’s Bay” with 19.