The Television Academy on Thursday confirmed additional production details for the 78th Emmy Awards, days after announcing that Mariska Hargitay would host the ceremony. The awards are scheduled to air on CBS in September from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
Hargitay, best known for her long-running role as Captain Olivia Benson on 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit', is the first solo host of the Emmys in years. Her selection reflects an effort to restore a traditional variety format after recent telecasts experimented with ensemble presenters and cold-open sketches.
CBS and Television Academy executives confirmed that the September broadcast would emphasise live comedy and musical segments, with nominations to be announced in the weeks ahead. The network is airing the ceremony as part of its rotating agreement among major U.S. broadcasters.
Hargitay's 'SVU' colleagues and NBC publicly congratulated her on social media. Trade analysts said a recognisable network star could help reverse recent declines in Emmy viewership.
A Television Academy spokesperson said further presenter announcements and category details would follow closer to the telecast, describing Hargitay's hosting duties as "a return to a familiar, celebratory format for television's biggest night."