It was a night of history, Hollywood reunions, emotional tributes and a few surprises at the 78th Emmy Awards, plus, one actor made history.
BIG WINNER: “Widow’s Bay”
Apple TV’s breakout comedy-horror hit absolutely dominated, taking home six Emmys during the televised ceremony and a whopping 14 overall, setting a new record. It won Outstanding Comedy Series, while Matthew Rhys, Kate O’Flynn and Stephen Root also picked up acting awards.
BIG WINNER: Matthew Rhys
Rhys had a history-making night, becoming the first actor to win two lead acting Emmys in two different categories in the same year — comedy for “Widow’s Bay” and limited series for “The Beast in Me.”
BIG WINNER: Jean Smart
Smart went out with a bang, winning her fifth consecutive Emmy for ‘Hacks.’ Her eighth Emmy ties her with Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Cloris Leachman for most acting Emmys ever.
BIG WINNER: Rhea Seehorn
After years of Emmy nominations without a win for “Better Call Saul,” Seehorn finally got her moment. She took home Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama for “Pluribus” — and Hollywood was cheering. (Yes, she got a standing O.)
BIG WINNER: “The Pitt”
The medical drama repeated as Outstanding Drama Series, while Noah Wyle won Lead Actor for the second consecutive year.
THE BIGGEST LOSER: “Hacks”
Despite leading all shows with 24 nominations, “Hacks” came away with only two wins. Jean Smart saved the night, but the beloved HBO comedy clearly didn’t have the sweep many expected.
THE OMG MOMENT: Taylor Swift!
Swift made a surprise appearance in a hilarious pre-taped “Law & Order: SVU” sketch with host Mariska Hargitay. Her cat, Olivia Benson, even made a cameo — a perfect little wink to Swifties and “SVU” fans alike. (Meanwhile, the newly married Swift was supporting her husband’s football game. Good choice.)
THE HEARTBREAKING MOMENTS
The evening also took an emotional turn with tributes to Catherine O’Hara, Dolly Parton and other beloved stars who died over the past year. Reba McEntire performed a tribute to Parton, while Jamie Lee Curtis helped remember Rob Reiner during the In Memoriam segment.
And then there was Mariska Hargitay, who made history as the first woman to host the Emmys in 15 years. Her performance had its hits and misses, but she brought plenty of heart — and, naturally, a LOT of “SVU” references.
Overall, the 2026 Emmys delivered what Hollywood does best: big stars, big surprises, plenty of glamour and enough drama to rival anything on television.