Mariska Hargitay launched the 2026 Emmy Awards ceremony with a musical opening that quickly incorporated surprise guests. The veteran actress, known for her long-running role on "Law & Order: SVU," brought New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson into the performance.
Hargitay's monologue also included playful jabs at television producer Dick Wolf, actor Martin Short, and her extensive tenure on the police procedural. The host then turned her attention to actress Nicole Kidman, who also made an appearance during the opening segment.
A video of Hargitay's full opening monologue, featuring the celebrity cameos, is available for viewing.