Right before NBC’s fall lineup of shows officially kicks off, the 78th Emmy® Awards marks the year’s biggest and most exciting night in television. But what makes the Emmys so unique and different from other award shows like the Oscars and Golden Globes? There are a couple reasons, but it really boils down to celebrating the beauty of the small screen and the TV shows that have captivated us over the past year.
Hosted by Law & Order: SVU legend Mariska Hargitay, the 2026 Emmy Awards will hand out the ceremony’s iconic golden statuettes to recognize television’s best work. Saturday Night Live, The Voice, The Traitors, Love Island USA, and more of your favorite series have all scored Emmy nominations, while Hargitay has already won two 2026 awards.
Hargitay’s trophy collection also includes Golden Globes (one win and two nominations) for her role as Olieen these major award ceremonies? Read on for all the details, including who votes for the Emmys and how to watch this year’s ceremony live
How are the Emmys different from the Oscars and Golden Globes?
To put it simply, the Emmy Awards are all about TV. Winning an Emmy is considered one of the greatest and most prestigious honors in the world of television. As Hargitay herself once described the award, “To have that work celebrated, honored, and acknowledged with an Emmy is a truly extraordinary, next-level experience.”
As for the Oscars, also known as the Academy Awards, the annual ceremony focuses only on film. Similarly to the Emmys, the Oscars recognize excellence in one industry: cinema.
The Golden Globes celebrate both TV and movies, as well as podcasting. Characterized as the “world’s premier entertainment awards,” the Golden Globes are determined by a smaller group of journalists (typically around a few hundred) from all over the world.
NBC Turns 100 This Year!
On November 15, 1926, NBC aired its first broadcast — and for 100 years, the network has helped define news, sports, and entertainment. Whether you’re starting your mornings with TODAY, laughing on weekends with SNL, or catching the big game on Sundays, NBC has been part of people’s lives for generations. Now in 2026, we’re celebrating a century of shared moments, memories, and milestones. A century together.
Stay tuned to NBC this fall for stories honoring the shows, characters, and moments you love — both past and present. Because after 100 years, we’re only getting started.Don’t forget to stream all your NBC favorites on Peacock right now.
Who votes for the Emmys?
The Emmys are determined by the Television Academy, a nonprofit organization made up of more than 27,000 members. Television Academy members include performers, directors, producers, art directors, technicians, and more industry professionals across “31 Peer Groups.”
You must actively work in television and be over 18 to become a member of the Television Academy. The online application quickly determines if you’re eligible to apply. Members also pay an annual fee between $150 to $225.
What types of TV shows can win Emmy Awards?
All kinds of TV shows can win an Emmy Award!
The 2026 Emmy Award categories include television shows in drama, comedy, limited series, reality, game show, and variety, as well as documentaries, among others.
Fun fact: Saturday Night Livehas won the most Emmys of all time!
How often do the Emmy Awards happen?
The Emmy Awards take place once a year, with the annual primetime ceremony traditionally airing in September.
How to watch the 78th Emmy® Awards
This year’s ceremony takes place on Monday, September 14 with live broadcasts airing on NBC and Peacock at 8 p.m. ET.
