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Comedian Nate Bargatze is set to host the 77th Emmy Awards, a choice that has surprised some. The down-to-earth, Tennessee-born comedian isn’t exactly a Hollywood fixture, known more for his kind demeanor and relatable humor than flashy antics. This unusual pick has sparked curiosity and perhaps a renewed interest in the awards show itself.
In a recent interview, Bargatze discussed his approach to hosting, emphasizing his desire to entertain and keep the show moving. He acknowledged the challenge of balancing respect for the nominated shows with his own comedic style, admitting he hasn’t seen every nominated program. He also expressed his belief that stand-up comedy deserves its own Emmy category, given its growing popularity and unique demands.
Bargatze’s “clean” comedy and focus on creating a safe and supportive environment for fellow comedians through his production company, Nateland, are central to his brand. He hopes to introduce a wider audience to stand-up, believing that it can be a powerful platform for comedic voices. He resisted pressure to inject politics into his Emmy monologue, preferring to stay true to his style and serve as a “palate cleanser” throughout the evening.
He received advice from other comedians, including Nikki Glaser, Conan O’Brien, and Jimmy Kimmel, who encouraged him to “be himself” and handle any unexpected situations with grace and humor. Bargatze intends to bring a distinctly less “Hollywood” vibe to the Emmys, drawing on his experiences growing up in Nashville and touring the country. He shared his dream of creating a Nateland theme park, a safe and fun environment for kids and families.
Finally, Bargatze revealed his innovative plan to keep acceptance speeches concise: a $100,000 donation to the Boys & Girls Club of America, with $1,000 deducted for every second a winner goes over their allotted 45 seconds. Winners can also add to the donation by keeping their speeches short.
His ultimate measure of success? Hearing people say, “That was fun to watch.”