The 2026 Emmy Awards nominations for variety series have sparked some intriguing conversations, and I'm here to dive into the fascinating details and offer my take on these developments.
The variety series category has undergone a significant transformation, merging scripted and talk series into one unified category. This change, implemented by the TV Academy, is a response to a decline in submissions over the years. The new setup echoes the Emmy's pre-2015 structure, with a twist: it's now an "area award," allowing for multiple winners based on a 90% "yes" threshold.
The Nominees and Their Stories
The nominees for this revamped category include The Daily Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and Saturday Night Live. These shows represent the cream of the crop, with Last Week Tonight being a consistent winner and SNL standing in a league of its own.
What's particularly interesting is the journey of Colbert and Kimmel to earn their spots on the ballot. The Late Show's end in May, attributed to CBS' decision to abandon the traditional late-night format, was a notable event. Colbert's blame on politics and Paramount's cost-cutting measures made for a dramatic exit, ensuring a well-deserved honorary nomination.
On the other hand, Jimmy Kimmel Live! faced its own challenges this season. Kimmel's suspension by Disney/ABC for a controversial remark about Charlie Kirk's alleged assassin added a layer of complexity to his nomination.
The Political Angle
Both Colbert and Kimmel find themselves on President Trump's alleged enemies list, which has undoubtedly influenced their year. The question arises: will this political tension be enough to dethrone John Oliver, or will they join him as winners?
A New Era for Variety Series
The variety series category's evolution is an exciting development. It showcases the TV Academy's adaptability and willingness to merge categories when necessary. The new "area award" system adds an element of suspense, as multiple winners are now a possibility.
In conclusion, the 2026 Emmy nominations for variety series offer a glimpse into the changing landscape of television. With the category's transformation and the unique stories of the nominees, this year's awards are shaping up to be particularly captivating. Personally, I can't wait to see how this plays out and who takes home the Emmys in September!
