The NFL has selected one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed actors to host its marquee awards ceremony. Jon Hamm will serve as the host for the 15th annual NFL Honors on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. The event will air live at 9 p.m. ET on NBC and NFL Network, with streaming available on Peacock and NFL+.
Hamm’s selection follows Snoop Dogg, who hosted the 2025 NFL Honors ceremony. The announcement comes months after Hamm appeared in an official capacity at Super Bowl LIX for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Jon Hamm’s Long Road to Don Draper
Jonathan Daniel Hamm was born on March 10, 1971, in St. Louis, Missouri. After moving to Los Angeles in 1996, Hamm spent years struggling as an unemployed actor, working as a waiter to support himself while attending auditions. In 1998, after facing early rejection, his talent agency dropped him as a client.
In 2007, Hamm was cast as Don Draper in AMC’s “Mad Men,” a breakthrough role that became the first major chapter of his career. The series premiered to critical acclaim, with Hamm earning praise for portraying the duplicitous advertising executive concealing a profound secret.
Emmy Glory and Recognition
The role of Don Draper led Hamm into awards-season prominence. During the eight seasons of “Mad Men” (2007–2015), Hamm received eight consecutive Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, finally winning the award in 2015 for the show’s final season.
His work as Don Draper also earned him two Golden Globe Awards for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama (in 2008 and 2016), multiple Screen Actors Guild Award nominations, and wins with the ensemble cast for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series. Throughout his career, Hamm has earned 14 Emmy nominations.
Film, Comedy, and Television ft. Jon Hamm
While “Mad Men” defined his prominence, Hamm has proven to be a multifaceted performer unwilling to be confined to a single character. His film work began during the show’s run, with supporting roles in “The Town” (2010), voice work for “Shrek Forever After” (2010), and lead roles in action thrillers.
More recently, he appeared in “Top Gun: Maverick” (2022), one of the decade’s highest-grossing films, and took on prestigious dramas such as “The Report” (2019) and “Richard Jewell” (2019).
Perhaps most surprisingly for an actor best known for dramatic gravitas, Hamm has proven himself exceptionally skilled at comedy. He guest-starred on NBC’s “30 Rock” (2009–2012) as Drew Baird, a handsome but intellectually challenged pediatrician.
His comedic work on the series earned him three Emmy nominations for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series. He has also received nominations for guest appearances on Netflix’s “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.”
Jon Hamm’s Recent Work
In recent years, Hamm has continued pursuing challenging roles in streaming and cable television. In 2023–2024, he took on the lead role as Roy Tillman, a North Dakota sheriff, in the fifth season of FX’s “Fargo”. The performance earned him a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie.
Simultaneously, Hamm took on a supporting role in Apple TV+’s drama series “The Morning Show” (2023), appearing alongside Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon. This role earned him nominations for both a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Beyond acting,
Jon Hamm’s Love For Football
Part of what makes Hamm’s selection to host NFL Honors fitting is his passion for professional football. He is a dedicated Kansas City Chiefs supporter and appeared in an official capacity at major events, including Super Bowl LIX.
“Week after week, the NFL delivers performances that remind you why this game means so much to so many people. I’m honored to host an evening that celebrates the players, their immense talents, and the unforgettable moments that defined this season.” Hamm said about hosting the NFL honors.
The 2026 NFL Honors Event
The 15th annual NFL Honors will announce the NFL’s most prestigious individual awards, including the Most Valuable Player and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. This year introduces a new award, the Protector of the Year, designed to recognize the league’s best offensive lineman. The award will be selected by a panel of former offensive linemen, including Jason Kelce, Andrew Whitworth, and Orlando Pace.
With 14 Emmy nominations, two Golden Globe Awards, and recognition as one of television’s finest dramatic actors, Hamm brings both star power and genuine credibility to the NFL Honors ceremony.
When the Palace of Fine Arts fills with the NFL’s brightest stars on February 5, 2026, they will do so under the stewardship of an entertainer who has earned his place among Hollywood’s most respected performers.
