The Emmy Awards opened Monday evening with host Mariska Hargitay delivering a pointed parody of Nicole Kidman's well-known AMC advertisement, performing the recreation while Kidman sat in the audience.
Hargitay, who stars in Law & Order: SVU, recited the promotional spot word for word during her hosting duties at the ceremony. The performance prompted an immediate reaction from Kidman, who attempted to interrupt the bit.
When the film star tried to stop Hargitay from continuing with the routine, the Emmy host refused to abandon the comedic moment. The exchange between the two actresses unfolded as part of the opening segment of television's marquee awards event.
The playful confrontation marked the beginning of the 2026 Emmy Awards broadcast, which recognizes excellence in television programming. The ceremony took place on Monday, September 14, 2026, with Hargitay serving as host for the evening's proceedings.
The moment capitalized on the recognizability of Kidman's AMC promotional work, transforming it into an opening-night comedy bit that placed both actresses at the center of attention as the awards show commenced.