The best, worst, and weirdest of the 2026 Emmys
All the most deserving winners, inexplicable creative choices, and ghoulies of TV’s biggest night.
The 78th Primetime Emmys left a lasting impression, with moments that stood out as both remarkable and peculiar. At the ceremony, Jean Smart became the first lead actor to win all their awards, while Matthew Rhys of Widow's Bay secured a record-breaking number of wins for a comedy series. However, the telecast was marred by technical difficulties and a lack of polish, with the production team caught off guard by a duet about finales and cancellations to the tune of Supertramp.
Despite these issues, the ceremony produced some memorable highlights. Mariska Hargitay's hosting duties felt unpolished, but Jon Hamm and Amanda Peet's comedic banter during their presentation as Ronald and Tabitha Neighbors brought some genuine laughter. John Mulaney's lengthy, reference-filled introduction to the Lead Actor in a Drama Series category also managed to elicit a few chuckles.
The highlight of the night for many was undoubtedly the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award, which was dedicated to the late Michael J. Fox, whose quick wit and sense of humor were on full display during his acceptance speech. However, the ceremony's pacing and focus on promotional material, such as the Baywatch cast's awkward promotional segment, hindered the overall experience.
The Emmys' attempt to showcase the latest reality competition proved to be a misstep, further contributing to the night's disjointed feel. Ultimately, while the winners felt right, the production, priorities, and overall tone of the evening left much to be desired.
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