Emmy winners 2026: ‘Widow’s Bay’ and ‘The Pitt’ dominate | Entertainment News
Jean Smart Wins Fifth Emmy for ‘Hacks’ at 78th Primetime Emmy Awards
Published: Sept. 15, 2026
LOS ANGELES — The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards celebrated television excellence on Sept. 14, recognizing standout performances and productions. Notably, Jean Smart secured her fifth Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as stand-up comic Deborah Vance in Hacks. This win makes her the first actress to achieve the honor in every season of a show’s run. Overall, Smart has received eight Emmy awards during her illustrious career.
“What a ride this has been,” she said, receiving a standing ovation from the audience.
Hacks had to contend with new competition this year as the comedy-horror series Widow’s Bay, set in a haunted New England town, won the award for Best Comedy Series, defeating reigning champion Hacks.
Matthew Rhys, a lead actor in Widow’s Bay, made headlines by becoming the first individual to win two lead acting awards at the same Emmy ceremony. His co-star, Stephen Root, also garnered attention by winning the Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, overcoming favorites such as Harrison Ford from Shrinking. In his acceptance speech, Root expressed gratitude to Ford, saying, “Thank you, sir, for all your many years of great, great, great acting.”
In the leading drama category, Noah Wyle took home his second consecutive Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor for his role in The Pitt, an emergency room drama based in Pittsburgh, which also won the award for Best Drama Series. Wyle remarked on his achievement, saying, “This is the only club I’ve ever wanted to join. Thank you for accepting me.”
The Pitt faced stiff competition from nominees including Pluribus, Paradise, and The Diplomat.
Rhea Seehorn won Best Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Pluribus, marking her first Emmy win after being previously nominated for her acclaimed performance in Better Call Saul. Vince Gilligan, known for creating Breaking Bad and its spin-off, took home the award for Best Drama Writing for Pluribus.
Additionally, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, concluding its farewell season, won the Emmy for Best Variety Series, bringing its total to six Emmy awards before its cancellation amid reported financial pressures. Colbert criticized the network’s decision, alleging that the cancellation was influenced by pressure from political figures due to his satire of former President Donald Trump.
The Emmy Awards continue to reflect the evolving landscape of television, showcasing a diversity of talent and storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide.
