Early Emmys ceremony could bring many trophies for ‘The Pitt,’ ‘Hacks’ and ‘Pluribus’

Los Angeles (AP) — "The Pitt," "Hacks," "Pluribus" and "Widow's Bay" stand a strong chance of winning Emmys on Sunday, eight days before the main broadcast. The Television Academy's early ceremony, which will feature numerous categories, aims to showcase the best in behind-the-scenes work and big-name performances.

"The Pitt," an HBO Max series, secured the best drama award for its inaugural season and boasts the most nominations of the night, making up 25. "Hacks," also from HBO Max, received a record 24 comedy nominations during its final season and could secure up to a dozen wins on Sunday. The majority of Emmys awarded this weekend will go to behind-the-scenes crew members, but big names may also make an impact, particularly in guest acting categories.

Potential posthumous Emmy winners include Rob Reiner, who passed away in December alongside his wife Michele Singer Reiner. Reiner was nominated for guest actor in a comedy for "The Bear," nearly 50 years after his previous Emmy wins on "All in the Family." Five-time Emmy winner Michael J. Fox is also in contention for a posthumous award for his portrayal of a Parkinson's disease patient on "Shrinking."

The evening's star power will be amplified by the Academy's decision to shift five categories from the Sept. 14 telecast to Sunday. These include best supporting actor and actress in a limited series, with nominees such as Jason Bateman, Charles Melton, Dakota Fanning, and Laurie Metcalf. "The Pitt" had the most nominations in drama acting, with two performers nominated for best guest actor in a drama, and three nominated for best guest actress.

Tal Anderson, an autistic advocate, was nominated for best guest actress in a drama for her role in "The Pitt."

HBO Max's "Widow's Bay," a horror comedy, could also make a significant mark by winning up to 10 Emmys. "Pluribus," directed by Vince Gilligan, the creator of "Breaking Bad," features actress Rhee Seahorn and could win ten awards on Sunday. Additionally, five of the seven best guest actress in a comedy nominees come from "Hacks," including Leslie Bibb and Laurie Metcalf.