Taylor Swift’s surprise appearance at this year’s Emmy Awards came together after host Mariska Hargitay’s writing team began exploring ways to bring the pop star into the ceremony.
Executive producer Dionne Harmon said Hargitay and Swift are genuine friends, which helped make the collaboration possible.
The pair appeared in a pre-recorded parody of Hargitay’s “Law & Order: SVU”. Swift played a detective attempting to decode clues about whether she would make an appearance at the Emmys.
Producer Jesse Collins said Swift enjoyed the script and also contributed ideas, particularly for the hidden references, or “Easter eggs”, included in the sketch.
The segment was filmed secretly at the “SVU” set in late August. Producers kept the shoot tightly controlled, with only a small group of people aware of the project to ensure Swift’s appearance remained a surprise.
Swift, who has long been a fan of the series, also suggested bringing her cat Olivia Benson into the sketch. Named after Hargitay’s “SVU” character, the real-life cat appeared alongside Hargitay at the end of the segment.
Hargitay’s Hollywood and entertainment connections also helped attract other notable guests to the ceremony.
New York Knicks player Jalen Brunson appeared during the opening segment, while producers said Hargitay’s popularity helped draw a diverse group of participants to the show.
