Emmy Nominations Show Broadcast Networks' Diminished Role in 2026 Race

The 2026 Emmy nominations spotlight the shrinking footprint of traditional broadcast television, with ABC's "Abbott Elementary" standing as the lone network show in major categories, according to a report from Variety.

How Bad Was It for Broadcast TV?

The decline is stark. The list includes "FBI," "The Neighborhood," "The Rookie," "Shifting Gears," "Stumble," and "Will Trent." This scarcity arrives as the TV Academy negotiates a new licensing deal for the Emmy ceremony with the major networks.

What Were the Biggest Nomination Trivia?

Martin Short achieved a rare feat with nominations in three distinct fields: Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for "Only Murders in the Building," Outstanding Game Show Host for "Match Game," and as the subject of the nominated documentary "Marty, Life Is Short." Bad Bunny also made history. His Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show earned nine nominations, surpassing the previous record set by Lady Gaga in 2017.

Other notable trivia includes David Attenborough becoming the oldest Primetime Emmy nominee ever with two nods for narration. Salli Richardson-Whitfield became the first Black woman to receive two directing nominations in the drama series category. Several canceled shows, such as Apple TV+'s "Palm Royale" with eight nominations and Peacock's "Poker Face," also found recognition.

Sources