The 2026 Emmy Awards are shaping up to be a night of records. Two of Hollywood’s most beloved stars, Harrison Ford and Sally Field, are in the running to become the oldest winners in their respective categories. If they take home the trophies, they will rewrite the Emmy history books.
Ford, who turns 84 on Emmy night, is nominated for his role as Dr. Paul Rhoades in Apple TV+’s comedy-drama “Shrinking.” This marks his second consecutive nomination for the series, after receiving his first-ever Emmy nod at age 83 in 2025. Despite a legendary film career spanning over 60 years, Ford has never won a competitive Emmy, Oscar, or any other major acting award.
Field, at 79, is nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for her performance in the Netflix film “Remarkably Bright Creatures.” She previously won Emmys for “Sybil” (1977), “ER” (2001), and “Brothers & Sisters” (2007). A win in 2026 would make her the oldest winner in her category’s history.
Harrison Ford’s Path to Emmy History
Ford’s nomination for “Shrinking” comes after years of acclaimed work in television. He plays a therapist navigating Parkinson’s disease, a role that has earned widespread praise from critics and audiences alike.
The current record for the oldest winner in the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series category belongs to Henry Winkler, who was 72 when he won for “Barry” in 2018. Ford would not only break that record but also surpass Bob Newhart, who was 84 when he won for “The Big Bang Theory” in 2013, as the oldest man to win a comedy acting Emmy.
Ford’s competition in the category includes Colman Domingo (“The Four Seasons”), Paul W. Downs (“Hacks”), Nick Offerman (“Margo’s Got Money Troubles”), Stephen Root (“Widow’s Bay”), Michael Urie (“Shrinking”), and Tyler James Williams (“Abbott Elementary”).
Sally Field’s Return to Emmy Contention
Field’s nomination for “Remarkably Bright Creatures” marks her first Emmy nod in 17 years. Her last nomination came in 2009 for “Brothers & Sisters.” She has won three Emmys previously, but her last win was in 2007.
“Remarkably Bright Creatures” is based on the bestselling novel by Shelby Van Pelt. Field plays Tova Sullivan, an aquarium worker who forms an unlikely bond with an octopus named Marcellus. The film has received positive reviews, with critics praising Field’s performance.
A win for Field would make her the oldest winner in the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie category. The current record holder is Jessica Tandy, who was 79 when she won for “Foxfire” in 1988.
Field faces stiff competition from Claire Danes (“The Beast in Me”), Carey Mulligan (“Beef”), Sarah Pidgeon (“Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette”), and Sarah Snook (“All Her Fault”).
Other Veterans Chasing History
Ford and Field are not the only veterans who could make Emmy history this year. Martin Short, 76, is nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for “Only Murders in the Building.” A win would make him the oldest winner in that category, surpassing Eugene Levy, who was 73 when he won for “Schitt’s Creek” in 2020.
Youn Yuh-jung, 79, is nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for “Beef.” A win would make her the first Korean actress to win a Primetime Emmy for acting.
Stephen Root, 74, is also nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for “Widow’s Bay.” If Ford doesn’t win, Root could take the record for the oldest winner in the category.
The 2026 Emmy Awards Ceremony
The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards will take place on September 14, 2026. The ceremony will be hosted by Mariska Hargitay. Final voting runs from August 17 to August 26.
The Creative Arts Emmy Awards and Governors Gala will be held on September 5 and 6.
Fan Reactions and Industry Buzz
Fans and industry insiders have expressed strong support for Ford and Field. Many believe Ford deserves an Emmy for his work on “Shrinking.” One fan wrote on social media, “Harrison Ford’s performance is Emmy-worthy. He was so excellent.”
Nick Offerman, who is competing against Ford in the Supporting Actor category, joked about the competition on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” He said:
“It’s so nice to have a job as an actor. And then to get all the way to where you’re in the mix of, like, being awarded for your great show, it’s pretty swell, you know? And, like, in one of them, I’m up against Harrison Ford, as a supporting actor in a comedy, which I did not see that coming.”
Awards experts have also weighed in. According to Gold Derby, Ford has a 65.7% chance of winning in his category. One prediction market, Kalshi, gave Ford a 68% lead.
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What a Win Would Mean
For Ford, an Emmy win would be the first major acting award of his career. Despite starring in some of the biggest films in history, including “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones,” he has never won a competitive Oscar or Emmy. A win would be a fitting recognition of his decades of work.
For Field, an Emmy win would add to her already impressive collection of awards. She has won two Oscars, three Emmys, and two Golden Globes. A win in 2026 would cement her status as one of the greatest actors of her generation.
The 2026 Emmys could be a night of historic firsts. Whether Ford, Field, or both take home trophies, the ceremony is sure to be memorable.
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