Shailene Woodley and Ernest Harden Jr. Win at 2026 Emmys
Shailene Woodley and Ernest Harden Jr. both won Emmy awards for guest roles in drama series during the Creative Arts Emmys.
Rob Reiner and Betty Gilpin have secured wins for guest actor and actress in comedy at the 2026 Creative Arts Emmys.

Rob Reiner and Betty Gilpin have been awarded the 2026 Emmy Awards for Guest Actor and Guest Actress in a Comedy Series at a recent ceremony. The announcement was made during Night 2 of the Creative Arts Emmys, which took place ahead of the Primetime Emmy Awards scheduled for September 14. This information comes from The Hollywood Reporter, a reliable source for entertainment news.
Rob Reiner was honored posthumously for his performance in the critically acclaimed series The Bear. Reiner, a legendary figure in film and television, tragically passed away last December alongside his wife, Michele Reiner, under circumstances that drew considerable media attention. The emotional atmosphere of the ceremony was palpable, as presenter Wendi McLendon-Covey acknowledged the crowd with a heartfelt message, emphasizing the significance of Reiner’s win. The audience responded with a standing ovation, underscoring his lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Betty Gilpin received the award for her memorable role in Apple's Widow's Bay. Her acceptance speech was delivered in poem form, adding a unique flair to the evening. Gilpin began her speech by dedicating it to her date, Alison Brie, a former co-star from GLOW. This lighthearted moment was well-received and contributed to the celebratory spirit of the event.
The Creative Arts Emmys serve as a precursor to the Primetime Emmys and typically feature categories focused on technical achievements; however, this year included major acting categories. Alongside Gilpin and Reiner's wins, Shailene Woodley won for Guest Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Paradise, and Ernest Harden Jr. was recognized for Guest Actor in a Drama Series for The Pitt. The expanded award categories underscore a shift in how creative contributions are recognized in the world of television.
The awards held on September 7 were not broadcast live; instead, both nights’ ceremonies will air together on September 12. The actual Primetime Emmys, hosted by Mariska Hargitay, are set to be televised live on September 14. This scheduling adjustment is notable for viewers eager to see how the night unfolds, blending technical and creative excellence into one showcase.
The acknowledgment of Rob Reiner and Betty Gilpin in the 2026 Emmys reflects both their outstanding performances and the emotional weight surrounding Reiner's tragic passing. These wins are likely to resonate with audiences and serve as a reminder of the enduring legacies of celebrated actors. The Creative Arts Emmys have increasingly gained prominence, now sharing the stage with their Primetime counterparts, ultimately enriching the recognition of television talent.
For more on the 2026 Emmy Awards, check out our coverage on Linda Cardellini's win for Supporting Actress in a Limited Series and David Harbour’s win for Supporting Actor in a Limited Series.
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