Emmy Awards 2026: Matthew Rhys and Jean Smart became the standout names at the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards after winning big at the prestigious event. The actor was honoured for The Beast in Me Season 2 and Widow’s Bay, making him the first performer to win lead Emmys in two different acting categories at one ceremony.
Rhys won Best Lead Actor in a Limited Series for The Beast in Me Season 2. He later returned to the spotlight with the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series award for Widow’s Bay. The double win turned one of television’s biggest nights into a career-defining moment for the Welsh actor.
Matthew Rhys makes Emmy history
In the limited series race, Rhys was nominated alongside Riz Ahmed for Bait, Jason Bateman for Black Rabbit, Charlie Hunnam for Monster: The Ed Gein Story, and Oscar Isaac for Beef. His win added to an already strong Emmy record that includes earlier recognition for The Americans and Perry Mason.
During his acceptance speech, Rhys called the award “a real shock” and praised the creative team behind The Beast in Me. He thanked writers Daniel Pearle, Gabe Rotter and Howard Gordon, director Antonio Campos, and co-star Claire Danes, whom he described as an “intimidating scene partner”.
Rhys entered the 2026 Emmys with three nominations. Apart from his two acting nods, he was also recognised as an executive producer on The Beast in Me. His wider career includes eight Emmy nominations, including a previous win for FX’s acclaimed drama The Americans.
Jean Smart adds another record with Hacks
Jean Smart also created history with her win for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for Hacks. Her victory made her the first performer to win an Emmy for every season of the same show, underlining her long-running dominance in the comedy category.
Widow’s Bay had a strong night beyond Rhys’ win. Kate O’Flynn and Stephen Root won the supporting comedy acting awards, while the show also picked up the comedy writing honour. The series’ success gave it major momentum in a competitive comedy field that included Hacks.
The 2026 Emmy Awards were held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles and hosted by Mariska Hargitay. The ceremony also drew attention for its red carpet, with Nicole Kidman making a rare appearance in white Chanel couture and Selena Gomez arriving in a shimmering gold dress.
Rhys’ double victory now gives the 2026 Emmys one of its clearest talking points. With Widow’s Bay rising fast and The Beast in Me adding to his dramatic reputation, the actor leaves the ceremony with a rare place in Emmy history.
