Jalen Brunson slated for pre-taped opening segment of 78th Emmy Awards
NBA player Jalen Brunson will appear in a pre-recorded piece that opens the 78th Emmy Awards, hosted by Mariska Hargitay, while Reba McEntire will perform a Dolly Parton tribute later in the show.
The 78th Emmy Awards will feature a pre-taped opening segment that includes New York Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson, according to sources familiar with the production. The brief will air at the start of the telecast before host Mariska Hargitay continues with a live performance that incorporates dancers and other entertainers.
Hargitay, a noted Knicks fan, has previously hinted that Brunson would appear on the ceremony and also confirmed his upcoming guest role on "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." > "It’s definitely happening," Hargitay said of the SVU appearance. "He’s kind of magnificent that way. He is just open and ready. I don’t think there is much Jalen can’t do."
When asked about Brunson’s participation during the Emmy media day, executive producer Jesse Collins responded, "She’s got a lot of friends. Her contacts are deep."
The ceremony will also include a performance by Reba McEntire of a Dolly Parton song, introduced by actress Sally Field, who will be nominated for lead actress in a limited series or movie. Additional announced presenters span a wide range of television and film talent, including Julian Margulies, Jon Hamm, and Zendaya, among others.