Emmys 2026 recap: See the winners, emotional tributes and biggest moments

Matthew Rhys won the Emmy for outstanding lead actor in a limited or anthology series or movie for their performance in "The Beast in Me."

In his acceptance speech, Rhys shouted out his co-star, saying the show was "certainly led ferociously, fiercely, fervently by the incredible Claire Danes," and called her an "intimidating scene partner."

Other nominees in the category were Riz Ahmed for "Bait," Jason Bateman for "Black Rabbit," Charlie Hunnam for "Monster: The Ed Gein Story" and Oscar Isaac for "Beef."

"Hacks" actress Jean Smart won the Emmy for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series.

Smart thanked her family, Paul W. Downs and more in her brief speech.

Other nominees in the category included Quinta Brunson for "Abbott Elementary," Ayo Edebiri for "The Bear," Elle Fanning for "Margo's Got Money Troubles" and Lisa Kudrow for "The Comeback."

Kate O'Flynn took home the Emmy for outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series for her performance in "Widow's Bay."

In her acceptance speech, O'Flynn said "a saucy broad like Patricia" is the "role of a lifetime."

Among those she thanked were her parents "and the loves of my life -- my darling husband and our darling daughter, another saucy broad in the making."

"But this is for all the Patricias out there!" she added.

Others nominated in the category were her "Widow's Bay" co-star Dale Dickey, "Hacks" actresses Hannah Einbinder and Megan Stalter, Janelle James of "Abbott Elementary," "Margo's Got Money Troubles" star Michelle Pfeiffer and "Shrinking" star Jessica Williams.

Mariska Hargitay kicked off the show with New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson in an exuberant, looney pre-taped bit that had her sing a version of "I Love Rock 'n' Roll" by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, renamed "I Love TV Screens."

The first-time Emmy host was seen relaxed in bed with "Hacks" star Jean Smart, ate a burger in a nod to "Beef," rode a horse and drank bubble tea with Jennifer Coolidge.

On stage, she reveled in the fact that she was the first woman to host in 15 years. The star of "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," entering its 28th season, also joked that she never had to pronounce the word "finale" and pretended to have words with Nicole Kidman over her cheesy AMC ads.

"She crushed it," said Amy Poehler, who took the stage after the opening.