The Emmys Found a Host Even the Internet Might Tolerate

It’s not easy right now to find awards show hosts who don’t piss off at least half the Internet. We’re a politically divided country, and networks are afraid of igniting controversy. Oscar host Conan O’Brien may have been one of the few people capable of pulling it off, not because he’s personally politically neutral but because his comedy is largely free of politics.

The Emmy Awards have found their Conan equivalent in Nate Bargatze, a rare breed who appeals to both sides of the political spectrum (John Mulaney might have worked here, too). You could argue that we need a political host now more than ever, given what’s happening to our democracy. But I’m guessing CBS — already up to its eyeballs in lawsuits with the President — has no appetite for kicking that particular hornet’s nest, which is a shame, because it really needs to be kicked.

And yet, I still can’t be mad about choosing Bargatze, who seems like a nice guy and whose comedy is more clever than funny.

“It’s a huge honor to be asked to host such an iconic awards show, and I’m beyond excited to work with CBS to create a night that can be enjoyed by families around the world,” said Bargatze.

It’s not really a family show, Nate, but sure. It should also be a fairly interesting ceremony, if only to see the battles play out between Severance and The Pitt and their respective casts. I also hope that Shrinking gets some attention, along with Dying for Sex.