Capt. Olivia Benson is taking on a new role on NBC, or rather the actor who plays her is. Mariska Hargitay will be hosting the 78th Emmy Awards.<\/p>\n
Networks, which broadcast the show on a rotating basis, often tap stars from their lineups to host the awards show. Hargitay has been a stalwart of NBC, starring in \u201cLaw & Order: Special Victims Unit\u201d for 27 seasons. She\u2019s an unconventional choice for host as she\u2019s best known for her dramatic roles \u2014 the Emmys have tapped stand-up comedians and comedic actors to helm the show in recent years, including Nate Bargatze<\/a> in 2025. Hargitay would be the first woman to host since Jane Lynch in 2011.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s my great honor to host the 78th Emmy Awards \u2014 in the 100th birthday year of my beloved NBC \u2014 and celebrate this extraordinary community of storytellers,\u201d said Hargitay in a statement released on Tuesday. \u201cWhether it\u2019s an actor or a director, a costumer or a sound designer, we are all so privileged to take part in creating television that unites us.\u201d<\/p>\n The ceremony will be held on Sept. 14 and broadcast live from Los Angeles. Hargitay is a previous Emmy winner, earning recognition for her role as Benson in 2011. She has been nominated eight times overall.<\/p>\n \u201cMariska is one of television\u2019s most beloved stars, whose talent, authenticity and extraordinary connection with audiences have made her an enduring force in our industry and in culture,\u201d said Television Academy Chair Cris Abrego in a statement Tuesday. \u201cWe\u2019re so delighted to have her join us as the host of this year\u2019s Emmys telecast and know that she will create an unforgettable evening honoring the very best of television.\u201d<\/p>\n