David Harbour Claims First Emmy for 'DTF St. Louis' Amid Record Sweep

David Harbour won his first Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for his role as Floyd Smernitch in HBO's 'DTF St. Louis.' The win occurred on Night 2 of the 2026 Creative Arts Emmys, where the series secured six total awards from 13 nominations. Harbour credited creator Steven Conrad and HBO for the show's success, while noting the category was moved to the pre-telecast ceremony this year.
Key points
- David Harbour won Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for 'DTF St. Louis,' his first Emmy win after previous nominations for 'Stranger Things.'
- The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards saw 'DTF St. Louis' win six awards total, including writing and directing for creator Steven Conrad.
- Harbour thanked HBO for their 'tons of notes' and praised the character writing, calling the competition 'not a fair fight.'
- The supporting actor and actress categories for limited series were moved to the Creative Arts Emmys for the first time, as announced by the Television Academy in July.
- Harbour remains in contention for Outstanding Limited Series as an executive producer during the main telecast on September 14.
Background
Harbour previously received Emmy nominations in 2017 and 2018 for 'Stranger Things.' In August 2026, he discussed training in American Sign Language for his role and his desire to move beyond genre roles. 'DTF St. Louis' was a strong contender in the limited series race, competing against 'Beef' and other titles.
How outlets are covering it
The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline, and Variety all confirmed Harbour's win and his gratitude toward HBO and creator Steven Conrad. THR and Deadline highlighted Harbour's backstage comments about his career trajectory since 'Stranger Things,' while Variety emphasized his executive producer role and potential for a second win in the main telecast. All sources noted the structural change moving supporting acting categories to the Creative Arts Emmys.
Why it matters
The win marks a significant career milestone for Harbour and validates the critical and audience reception of 'DTF St. Louis.' It also highlights the Television Academy's ongoing adjustments to the Emmy ceremony structure to accommodate a growing number of categories.
What to watch
The main Primetime Emmy Awards telecast is scheduled for September 14, 2026, where 'DTF St. Louis' will compete for Outstanding Limited Series. Harbour, as an executive producer, could potentially win a second award.
- David Harbour Thanks HBO for “Tons of Notes” as He Lands First Emmy Win The Hollywood Reporter
- David Harbour Wins First Emmy For ‘DTF St. Louis’, Thanks HBO For “All Your Tons Of Notes” Deadline
- Linda Cardellini Tearfully Calls First Emmy Win “A Real Dream Come True” The Hollywood Reporter
- Linda Cardellini Secures Her First Emmy Win with ‘DTF St. Louis’ Performance People.com
- 'DTF St. Louis' David Harbour Wins Emmy for Supporting Actor in Limited Series Variety
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