The Television Academy has announced that Mariska Hargitay will host the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, set to air live on September 20. The Law & Order: Special Victims Unit star will take the stage for the first time as emcee of the prestigious ceremony.
Historic Host Selection
Hargitay, who has portrayed Captain Olivia Benson on SVU since 1999, expressed her excitement in a statement: "I am deeply honored to host this year's Emmys. Television has given me so much, and I can't wait to celebrate the incredible work of my peers." The announcement comes as the Television Academy aims to boost viewership after last year's ceremony drew 5.9 million viewers, a slight increase from the previous year's record low.
Career Milestone
This marks Hargitay's first time hosting a major awards show. She has won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006 and has received multiple nominations. Her role as Benson has made her one of the longest-running characters in prime-time television history.
Ceremony Details
The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards will take place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. The event will be broadcast live on NBC and will stream on Peacock. Nominees are set to be announced on July 17.
