The Television Academy is implementing several changes for the 2026 Emmy Awards. This year, five major categories will be moved out of the main broadcast. This adjustment aims to create a shorter, more streamlined, and entertaining show.
Emmy Awards remove five categories from the 2026 broadcast
According to Variety, the Television Academy is relocating five categories from the 2026 Primetime Emmy Awards broadcast scheduled for September 14. These categories will instead be presented during the earlier Creative Arts Emmy ceremonies on September 5 and September 6.
The five categories being relocated are:
- Writing for a Variety Series
- Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
- Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
- Directing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
- Writing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie
The Television Academy emphasized that these award categories are not being eliminated. The winners will still receive their Emmys; however, the presentations will occur during the earlier Emmy ceremonies before the primetime broadcast.
According to Television Academy Chair Cris Abrego, this new approach focuses on creating a more streamlined broadcast. Last year’s Emmy Awards presented 26 awards during their live telecast. This year, that number will decrease to 19, allowing more room for musical performances, comedy segments, memorable acceptance speeches, and other entertainment moments.
Abrego stated that the Academy aims to provide producers with more creative freedom while keeping the show engaging for television audiences. He also noted that the board spread the changes across various fields such as writing, acting, and directing instead of concentrating on one group.
Another significant change is the removal of the Creative Arts distinction for the broadcasts on September 5 and September 6. Moving forward, all three ceremonies will simply be referred to as Emmys, reinforcing that every award holds equal importance regardless of when it is presented.
Mariska Hargitay will host the 78th Emmy Awards, which will air on NBC and stream on Peacock on September 14.
