US medical drama The Pitt and comedy Hacks dominate this year's Emmy nominations, while Stranger Things misses out on major categories.
New Delhi, India Jul 8, 2026 ALN: US medical drama The Pitt and comedy Hacks lead the nominations for this year's Emmy Awards, America's most coveted TV honours.
The Pitt has received 25 nominations in total, closely followed by the final season of Hacks with 24. British stars in the running include Matthew Rhys - the only person to be nominated for two lead acting awards (for Widow's Bay and The Beast In Me). There are also nominations for compatriots Riz Ahmed (Bait), Carey Mulligan (Beef), Gary Oldman (Slow Horses) and Rufus Sewell (The Diplomat).
However, there was no room on the best drama shortlist of the 78th Emmy Awards for the final seasons of hit shows Stranger Things or Euphoria.
Stranger Things' seven nominations all came in technical categories, while Zendaya is the only member of Euphoria's star-studded cast to be listed in the main acting categories.
Another hit show that has just come to an end, The Bear, made it on to the list for best comedy, but its star Jeremy Allen White was snubbed despite having won Emmys for best lead comedy actor in both 2024 and 2025.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Los Angeles on 14 September.
Drama series
Comedy series
Limited or anthology series
Lead actor in a drama series
Lead actress in a drama series
Lead actor in a comedy series
Lead actress in a comedy series
Lead actor in a limited or anthology series or movie
Lead actress in a limited or anthology series or movie
Supporting actor in a drama series
Supporting actress in a drama series
Supporting actor in a comedy series
Supporting actress in a comedy series
The Emmy Awards, established in 1949, are presented annually by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences to recognize excellence in the television industry. They are considered the television equivalent of the Oscars, celebrating outstanding achievements in various categories including drama, comedy, and limited series. The nominations reflect the evolving landscape of television, with streaming services increasingly dominating the nominations and awards in recent years.
This year’s nominations highlight a trend where streaming platforms like HBO Max, Netflix, and Apple TV+ have secured a significant number of nominations, showcasing the growing influence and popularity of original programming from these services. The Pitt’s dominance in the nominations can be attributed to its compelling storytelling, strong performances, and high production values, making it a favorite among critics and audiences alike.
On the other hand, the absence of Stranger Things and Euphoria from the top categories has sparked discussions among fans and industry analysts. Both shows have been cultural phenomena, generating massive viewership and critical acclaim. Their exclusion from the best drama category raises questions about the Emmy voting process and the criteria used to determine nominations. Some suggest that the final seasons may not have resonated as strongly with voters compared to earlier seasons, while others point to the competitive nature of the current television landscape.
Stranger Things, in particular, has garnered a dedicated fanbase and has been lauded for its nostalgic references to 1980s pop culture, engaging plotlines, and strong character development. Despite its technical nominations, the lack of recognition in major categories may be seen as a disappointment for its creators and fans alike.
The nominations for the 78th Emmy Awards also reflect a diverse range of stories and perspectives, with many shows highlighting underrepresented voices and experiences. For instance, shows like Beef and Hacks have been praised for their unique narratives and representation of different cultures and communities. This year's nominations also include a notable number of female-led projects, showcasing the strides made towards gender equality in the industry.
As the Emmy Awards ceremony approaches, anticipation builds among nominees and fans alike. The awards not only recognize individual and collective achievements in television but also serve as a platform to celebrate the art of storytelling and its impact on society. With the winners set to be announced in September, the focus will be on whether the frontrunners will maintain their momentum or if upsets will occur in what has been a highly competitive year for television.
In conclusion, the 78th Emmy Awards nominations reflect the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of television. With a mix of established favorites and emerging voices, this year’s awards promise to be an exciting event, showcasing the best that the television industry has to offer. The outcome of the awards will not only impact the careers of those involved but also shape the future of storytelling on television.
To learn more about the latest developments in Culture & Society, stay updated with our exclusive reports and analyses on AiLensNews.
