Emmy awards 2026 red carpet live: Zendaya, Jean Smart and the biggest stars arrive

The television industry's biggest night is getting under way, with stars arriving on the red carpet ahead of the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Zendaya, Jean Smart and host Mariska Hargitay are among the early arrivals, with more nominees, presenters and television stars expected to make their way to the venue before the ceremony begins.

The red carpet is offering the first major glimpse of the night's fashion, as stars step out in looks chosen for one of the most-watched events of the awards season. Attention is also turning to the nominees from leading contenders including The Pitt, which tops this year's nominations with 25 nods, followed by Hacks with 24, Widow's Bay with 19 and Pluribus with 18.

Mariska Hargitay looks like a vision in red

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit star Mariska Hargitay is taking on hosting duties for the 2026 Primetime Emmy Awards, becoming the first woman in 15 years to lead television’s biggest awards ceremony. The live event is being held on 14 September at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles.

Yes, Meg Stalter is an actual Emmy statuette

Meg Stalter, who earned her first Emmy nomination this year for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for Hacks, appeared to be having fun with the occasion. The actor took method dressing to its most literal conclusion at the 2026 Emmys, arriving on the red carpet dressed as an actual Emmy statuette.

The Hacks star covered herself in gold and recreated the iconic trophy with wings and a golden globe-like prop, turning heads with one of the evening's most playful fashion moments.

Zendaya arrives in a semi-sheer gown

Zendaya looked incredible in a crystal-embellished gown featuring a plunging V-neck, styled by her longtime friend, stylist and image architect Law Roach. She completed the look with a statement watch and striking earrings.

Jean Smart makes a striking Emmys entrance

Jean Smart channelled her character Deborah Vance's sophisticated style as she arrived at the Peacock Theater on Monday. She walked the red carpet in a floor-length black gown, featuring metallic silver pleated sleeves and a plunging V-neck bodice.

Nicole Kidman makes an elegant statement in white

Nicole Kidman made a graceful entrance at the 78th Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, arriving on the red carpet in a fitted white gown with delicate feather detailing around the neckline and a dramatic front slit.

Selena Gomez shimmers in gold on the Emmys 2026 red carpet

Selena Gomez made a glamorous appearance on the Emmys 2026 red carpet in a strapless gold Louis Vuitton gown. The figure-hugging dress featured a structured, corset-inspired bodice covered in reflective metallic embellishments, before flowing into a subtly flared mermaid-style skirt. She completed the look with a loose, wavy hairstyle and Tiffany & Co. statement jewellery.

Colman Domingo brings bold colour and sharp tailoring

Colman Domingo made a striking appearance at the 78th Emmy Awards in a custom Valentino peach suit, bringing a vibrant twist to traditional red-carpet menswear. He paired the warm-toned tailoring with a contrasting purple belt, creating a bold colour combination that stood out among the evening’s more classic looks.

Noah Wyle brings classic tailoring to the Emmys red carpet

Noah Wyle arrived at the 2026 Emmy Awards in a sharply tailored Brunello Cucinelli tuxedo, pairing the classic black-tie look with a Cartier Tank à Guichets watch. The 'The Pitt' star, who is nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, kept the overall look polished and understated.

Oscar Isaac serves effortless elegance

Oscar Isaac arrived on the Emmys 2026 red carpet in a sharp white-and-black Celine ensemble, pairing a double-breasted jacket with a matching cummerbund for a polished, fashion-forward look. He attended alongside his wife, filmmaker Elvira Lind.

John Ternus keeps it classic in a sharp black tuxedo

Apple CEO John Ternus opted for classic elegance as he walked the red carpet in a sharp black tuxedo. This marks Ternus's first major public appearance since Apple unveiled the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and its first foldable, the iPhone Duo, at its 9 September event. The launch was Ternus's first major keynote as Apple's new CEO, making his appearance at the Emmys another notable moment following his high-profile debut.

Meet the winners

A number of Emmys have already been handed out ahead of tonight’s main ceremony, with the early winners including several familiar faces and popular shows.

Supporting actor in a limited or anthology series or movie: David Harbour for DTF St Louis

Supporting actress in a limited or anthology series or movie: Linda Cardellini for DTF St Louis

Guest actress in a drama series: Shailene Woodley for Paradise

Guest actor in a drama series: Ernest Harden Jr for The Pitt

Guest actress in a comedy series: Betty Gilpin for Widow’s Bay

Guest actor in a comedy series: Rob Reiner for The Bear

Television movie: Remarkably Bright Creatures

Variety special (live): The Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show Starring Bad Bunny

Variety special (pre-recorded): The Muppet Show

Outstanding animated program: South Park