Emmys 2026: 'The Pitt' and 'Hacks' Face Strong Challengers in Tight Races

The 78th Emmy Awards, airing live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Monday at 8 p.m. Eastern on NBC, will see a tight competition between several heavyweight shows. Hosted by Mariska Hargitay, the ceremony will stream live on Peacock.

The top drama race pits HBO Max's "The Pitt" against Apple TV's "Pluribus." "The Pitt," which leads all nominees with 25 nods, is favored to win its second consecutive best drama award. Noah Wyle, who stars as Dr. Michael "Robby" Robinavitch, is a strong contender for best actor and could also win for directing, writing, and as a producer.

Rhea Seehorn, nominated for her role in "Pluribus," is seen as a likely first-time winner after four previous nominations. Her competition includes Zendaya, a two-time winner for "Euphoria." "Pluribus" also earned four early wins over the weekend.

In the comedy categories, "Hacks" and its star Jean Smart are expected to dominate, with Smart likely winning best actress for the fifth consecutive season. However, Apple TV's "Widow's Bay" has emerged as a formidable rival, winning eight early Emmys, including best guest actress for Betty Gilpin. The two shows will compete for best comedy alongside "Abbott Elementary," "The Bear," and others.

Early ceremonies on Saturday and Sunday already awarded many trophies. "The Pitt" won four early Emmys, including a first career win for 73-year-old Ernest Harden Jr. for best guest actor. Host Mariska Hargitay also won two Emmys for her documentary about her mother, Jayne Mansfield.

In limited series, "DTF St. Louis" won big early, while "Beef" leads the acting races with Carey Mulligan and Oscar Isaac as favorites. Late-night shows hosted by Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert are nominated for outstanding variety series.