The Television Academy is making several changes to the 2026 Emmy Awards. This time, they are moving five major categories out of the main broadcast. The change is part of an effort to make the show shorter, more streamlined, and more entertaining
Emmy Awards remove five categories from the 2026 broadcast
According to Variety, the Television Academy is moving five categories out of the 2026 Primetime Emmy Awards broadcast on September 14. Instead, they will 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 stressed that these award categories are not being eliminated. The winners will still receive their Emmys, but the presentations will take place during the earlier Emmy ceremonies before the primetime broadcast.
According to Television Academy Chair Cris Abrego, this new shift is focused on creating a more streamlined broadcast. Last year’s Emmy Awards handed out 26 awards during their live telecast. This year, that number will drop to 19, offering more space for musical performances, comedy segments, memorable acceptance speeches, and other entertainment moments.
Abrego said the Academy wants to give producers more creative freedom while keeping the show engaging for TV audiences. He also explained that the board spread the changes across different fields such as writing, acting, and directing instead of picking one group.
Another notable change is dropping the Creative Arts distinction for the September 5 and September 6 broadcasts. Going forward, all three ceremonies will simply be known as Emmys, reinforcing that every award carries 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.
