Michigan grad appeared in Emmy-winning Apple TV series ‘Widow’s Bay’
Sarah MooreUSA TODAY NETWORK
Sept. 15, 2026Updated Sept. 16, 2026, 6:46 a.m. ET
“Widow’s Bay” made a big splash during the 78th annual Emmy Awards, and a former University of Michigan student played a role in the Apple TV series’ historic night.
“Widow’s Bay” had a record-breaking night, earning 14 wins, which made it the most decorated comedy series in a single Emmy year. The Apple TV series premiered in April 2026 and features stars like Matthew Rhys, Kate O’Flynn and Kevin Carroll.
The series also featured actor Olli Haaskivi, who appeared in three episodes in season 1.
The show begins in an isolated coastal town that faces a modernization push as Mayor Tom Loftis drives a high-stakes tourism initiative. Dense fog rolls in, triggering ancient curse warnings from locals and mysterious disappearances that threaten civic order
Haaskivi played Ray, in “Widow’s Bay.” He graduated in 2008 from the University of Michigan where he studied musical theater. He was raised in Bradenton, Florida, and is now living in New York City, according to his official website.
Haaskivi also acted in the 2023 movie, “Oppenheimer,” in which he played the American nuclear physicist Edward Condon. He had roles in the 2022 TV series “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty,” and the 2021 mini-series, “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.”
Here’s more on the 2026 Emmys:
What other hit TV shows won an Emmy last night?
Here are some of the other top performers from the 2026 Emmys Awards:
- “Widow’s Bay” (Apple TV): 14 wins.
- “DTF St. Louis” (HBO): 7 wins.
- “The Traitors” (Peacock): 7 wins.
- “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” (CBS): 6 wins.
- “The Pitt” (HBO Max): 6 wins.
- “Pluribus” (Apple TV): 6 wins.
USA TODAY contributed.
Contact Sarah Moore @ smoore@lsj.com
