2026 Emmys: Breakouts and fan faves like 'Love Story' and 'The Testaments' compete for top TV prize

On The Red Carpet 2026 Emmys: Breakouts and fan faves like 'Love Story' and 'The Testaments' compete for top TV prize Explore 2026 Emmy-nominated shows including "Love Story," "The Testaments," "Wonder Man" and "Abbott Elementary" in a new On The Red Carpet special. Friday, August 14, 2026 7:23PM It's Emmy season in Hollywood, and while voters weigh a crowded field of contenders, On The Red Carpet is spotlighting some of the season's most talked-about programs, from breakout newcomers to established favorites.

Among the standout new programs is FX's "Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette," which earned six Emmy nominations, including outstanding limited or anthology series and a first Emmy nod for its lead actress, Sarah Pidgeon.

"I would do it all over again," Pidgeon told On The Red Carpet. "Even if it didn't come out. I feel so lucky to have worked with these creatives behind and in front of the camera."

Another newcomer earning Emmy recognition is "The Testaments," with Chase Infiniti receiving her first Emmy nomination for her role as Agnes.

A continuation of the Emmy-winning "The Handmaid's Tale," the series expands the story's world while carrying the expectations of an established franchise.

"You are opening this new door to a new part of Gilead that people haven't seen before," Infiniti said. "But you hope that they love because they already love the story and the characters and the franchise so much. So, I felt excitement and I felt a strong sense of responsibility."

Marvel's "Wonder Man," streaming on Disney+, also joined the Emmy conversation. The series centers on Simon Williams, an actor pursuing a career-defining opportunity, blending superhero elements with the realities of life in show business.

The show earned Yahya Abdul-Mateen II a nomination for outstanding lead actor in a comedy series.

"What I really do enjoy about this show is introducing people who have no idea what we do as an actor to a little bit about what it's like to be an actor trying to get a job," Abdul-Mateen said.

Meanwhile, "Abbott Elementary" enters Emmy season with seven nominations, including outstanding comedy series and a lead actress nod for creator and star Quinta Brunson.

"I think a good workplace comedy should make people feel like they are part of that workplace, like it's part of their family," Brunson told On the Red Carpet. "I think what struck a chord with us was making people feel safe. And you're part of our world."

The ABC comedy also earned acting nominations for Tyler James Williams in the supporting actor category and Janelle James for supporting actress.

"We've kinda reintroduced people to network television so that's been good. And hopefully usher in those types of shows and types of runs, the type of run we're having now I hope it all comes back," James said.

Viewers can learn more about these and other nominees including "Alien: Earth," "The Bear," "Only Murders in the Building," "Dancing with the Stars," "Paradise," and other great shows in the new special, "On The Red Carpet: And the Emmy Nominees Are ..." in the video player above.

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