Jalen Brunson appears in pre-taped segment of Mariska Hargitay's Emmys 2026 opening

NBA champion Jalen Brunson appeared in a pre-taped segment of the 2026 Emmy Awards opening, which was hosted by actress Mariska Hargitay at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. In the cameo, Hargitay, who was preparing for the ceremony, asked Brunson if he had ever felt the pressure of millions of eyes watching a single night. Brunson replied, "Seriously," and referenced the New York Knicks' recent NBA championship victory.

Hargitay then transitioned to a pre-recorded performance of Queen's "We Will Rock You." Earlier, she had hinted in an interview that Brunson might make an appearance, and Variety confirmed that his contribution would be pre-recorded rather than live. Prior to the ceremony, Brunson was seen in New York attending a Harry Styles concert and the US Open, where he sat beside fellow Knicks fan Ben Stiller.

Brunson later praised Hargitay, calling her his "No. 1" on a radio show and expressing admiration for her work. He also mentioned a possible future cameo on Hargitay's series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," a prospect Hargitay described as "in the works." The two shared backstage photos with their spouses after attending each other's events.

"Bringing important stories into the light has been the heartbeat of my career. It’s my great honor to host the 78th Emmy Awards … and celebrate this extraordinary community of storytellers," Hargitay said in a statement announcing her role as host.