Mariska Hargitay opened the 2026 Emmy Awards with a high-energy musical number that quickly became one of the night’s most talked-about moments. The “Law & Order: SVU” star commanded the stage with a polished performance before pivoting to a comedic monologue that spared no one — not even her longtime producer, Dick Wolf.
Jalen Brunson Joins Hargitay Onstage
In a surprise crossover between primetime television and professional sports, New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson joined Hargitay during the opening sequence. The NBA guard appeared game for the bit, playing off the actress’s theatrical energy as the audience reacted to the unlikely pairing.
Roasting Wolf, Short, and Her Own SVU Legacy
Hargitay’s monologue took aim at several familiar targets. She teased Wolf about the ever-expanding “Law & Order” universe, joked about Martin Short’s ubiquitous awards-season presence, and leaned into the meta humor of her own record-setting tenure as Captain Olivia Benson. “Watch the full video for Hargitay’s hilarious opening monologue and…” the network teased in its official clip description, cutting off before the punchline.
Nicole Kidman in the Crosshairs
The host also turned her wit toward Nicole Kidman, seated in the front row. Hargitay’s jab at the Oscar winner drew laughs and a visible reaction from the “Big Little Lies” star, adding to the night’s viral highlights.
The full opening sequence, including the musical number and complete monologue, is available on the Emmy Awards’ official streaming platforms and social channels.
