Nate Bargatze: The Everyman Host of the 77th Emmy Awards
For Nate Bargatze, the Tennessee-born comic who has captured the hearts of audiences across America, hosting the 77th Emmy Awards marks a significant milestone in his career. Known for his understated charm and everyman relatability, Bargatze has built a reputation as one of the nation’s most beloved stand-up performers. His journey to this prestigious role is a testament to his commitment to clean humor and genuine storytelling.
Bargatze’s rise to fame has been nothing short of remarkable. With a series of successful comedy specials, including “The Greatest Average American” and “The Tennessee Kid,” he has consistently showcased his unique comedic style. However, it was his standout appearance on “Saturday Night Live” in 2023 that catapulted him into the spotlight, leading to his recognition as the highest-grossing comedian of 2024.
A Lighthearted Approach to Hosting
As he prepares for his hosting duties, Bargatze approaches the Emmys with a clear mission: to keep the atmosphere light, fun, and genuinely enjoyable for everyone in attendance. In an interview with USA Today, he emphasized his desire to avoid meanness in his humor. “I don’t want to make someone sad that’s there,” he stated, reflecting his commitment to creating a positive experience for both the audience and the celebrities present.
This philosophy resonates with his approach to comedy, where he aims to connect with people rather than alienate them. In a conversation with TheWrap, Bargatze reiterated his intention to steer clear of uncomfortable jokes, stating, “When the celebrities are there, you want to be able to see them afterwards and it not be weird.” His understanding of the delicate balance between humor and sensitivity sets him apart in an industry often characterized by sharp wit and biting commentary.
A Unique Hosting Strategy
Bargatze’s hosting style promises to be refreshingly stripped-down compared to the traditional Emmy spectacle. He has made it clear that viewers should not expect elaborate song-and-dance numbers or grand musical interludes. “I would be terrible at that stuff,” he quipped, expressing his desire for the show to be enjoyable without unnecessary embellishments.
In a creative twist, Bargatze has devised a strategy to keep acceptance speeches concise. He has pledged a personal donation of $100,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of America, with the amount decreasing for every second that a speech exceeds the allotted 45 seconds. “So what I came up with is I’m going to donate $100,000 to the Boys & Girls Club. … If someone goes over, we take away $1,000 a second every time they go over,” he explained on "The Jimmy Kimmel Show." This innovative approach not only encourages brevity but also supports a worthy cause.
A Strong Field of Nominees
The 2025 Emmy Awards will showcase a particularly strong field of nominees, with Apple TV+’s workplace thriller “Severance” leading the pack with 27 nominations. Close behind is HBO’s “The Penguin,” featuring Colin Farrell’s transformative portrayal of the iconic Batman villain, which has garnered 24 nominations. Additionally, Apple TV+’s behind-the-scenes comedy “The Studio” has received 23 nods, highlighting the diverse range of talent and storytelling present in this year’s competition.
Viewers can also look forward to appearances from a diverse roster of celebrity presenters, including Tina Fey, Parker Posey, Jenna Ortega, and Mariska Hargitay. Their participation promises to add an extra layer of excitement to the evening.
The Emmys Air Live
The 77th Emmy Awards will air live on Sunday, September 14, providing a platform for celebrating the best in television. With Nate Bargatze at the helm, audiences can expect a night filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and a genuine appreciation for the art of storytelling. As he prepares to take the stage, Bargatze’s commitment to keeping things enjoyable for everyone involved is sure to make this year’s ceremony a memorable one. Follow along on the live blog for updates and highlights from the event.
