Ariana Madix, host of Peacock's Love Island USA, received her first Emmy nomination for best host in a reality or reality competition program, learning the news while filming in Fiji.
Awoken by the News
Madix was in deep slumber when her room phone rang at 4:30 a.m. in Fiji. The unexpected call from her team brought the exciting news, leaving her momentarily confused and wondering if it was real. "I was dead asleep," Madix told The Hollywood Reporter. "As an anxious person, that is terrifying... We were all so excited on the phone."
Initially questioning the reality of the call, Madix later confirmed she wasn't dreaming. "I’m so over the moon," she said after processing the nomination.
Stiff Competition
Madix's competition includes RuPaul Charles for RuPaul’s Drag Race, Alan Cumming for The Traitors, Kristen Kish for Top Chef, and Jeff Probst for Survivor. Seeing her name alongside these industry icons was surreal for Madix, who expressed her admiration. "It’s such a huge honor to be nominated," she noted, emphasizing the excellence of her fellow nominees.
Impact on Love Island USA
Since joining Love Island USA in 2023 for its sixth season, Madix has been instrumental in elevating the show's popularity. Her enthusiasm for the franchise is well-documented, and she believes viewers recognize her passion on screen. "I think part of the reason why maybe people wanted to see me nominated... is hopefully because they can see my love for the job," she explained.
Celebratory Plans
To celebrate, Madix plans a small gathering with her team at a beach bar in Fiji. She looks forward to fulfilling a promise to perform the Zara Larsson 'Lush Life' dance with the local staff. "I think tonight I’m going to make that happen," she shared with a laugh.
The 78th Emmy Awards will broadcast live on September 14 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on NBC and stream on Peacock. The Creative Arts Emmys are scheduled for September 5 and 6. For all Emmy nominations, refer to the official announcements.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/love-island-usa-ariana-madix-reacts-first-emmy-nomination-1236642780/
